WMDT General Manager recognized as a Top TV Leader for 2026
Salisbury, Md. – Radio and Television Business Report magazine has released it’s report this fall and we are proud to announce 47ABC-WMDT’s General Manager Stephanie Willey has been recognized as a top local TV leader for 2026.
Willey wears many hats as a sales lead as well as general manager at WMDT, but at her core is a passion for celebrating communities throughout Delmarva through the power of storytelling.
“I think we need more kindness in this world,” she said in an interview with WMDT’s Andrea Durán. “And that’s kind of the guiding force for running this business too, you know. It’s encouraging everyone to be kind. Let’s figure out what we can do to help the community in our stories.”
Willey frequently told Durán she could never have dreamed of one day running a local news station. However, her passion for the arts, education and for the region she grew up in is intrinsic to her mission at WMDT.
But Willey said that it is thanks to everyone at WMDT; from the reporters to studio crew to engineers to the anchors and meteorologists for making “because local matters” more than a slogan.
“I’ve grown up in this community and I want it to be a good place to work, kind place to live,” she said. “And I think that as news journalists, we can put the focus on that. And that’s what we do every day, because local matters.”
Willey told RBR:
Our trademark motto is “Because Local Matters.” In a world of divisive national media, we believe the need for trusted, neutral news has never been greater. We incorporate local features on area businesses and people that are making a difference in our community in our “Brightside” and “Shore to Shore” sponsored segments. We end each newscast with our “Good News” segment. It’s the connection to the community that makes the difference, and our team knows the market.
It’s because of the entire team, Willey says, that WMDT was recognized by the Associated Press for Outstanding News Operation for 2025 as well as Large Business of the Year from the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce. However, Willey is adamant there’s still more to come.
“We are going to be celebrating that 47th anniversary for ABC47-WMDT all next year. And we have some exciting things planned. And so I would say stay tuned,” she said.
