Salem Media Presents 2026 Stuart Epperson Award for Excellence in Christian Media Posthumously to Dr. John MacArthur at NRB
MWN-AI** Summary
On February 25, 2026, Salem Media announced that it posthumously honored Dr. John MacArthur with the 2026 Stuart Epperson Award for Excellence in Christian Media, recognizing his profound impact on Gospel ministry and Christian media over five decades. The award ceremony took place during a private event at the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) Convention, where Dr. MacArthur was celebrated as the fourth recipient of this esteemed award. He passed away on July 14, 2025, at the age of 86.
Established in 2024 to honor the legacy of Salem Media co-founder Stuart Epperson, the award recognizes leaders whose faithfulness, integrity, and commitment to the Gospel resonate through their work in Christian media. Dr. MacArthur was best known for his role as the pastor-teacher of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California for 56 years, becoming a leading figure in Bible exposition through his verse-by-verse teaching approach.
Salem Media’s CEO, Dave Santrella, praised Dr. MacArthur's unwavering dedication to Christ and Scripture, stating that his ministry has influenced countless lives and fostered a deeper love for the Word of God. As the founder of the daily radio program "Grace to You" since 1977, and the general editor of the widely regarded MacArthur Study Bible, he authored over 400 books and left a legacy of more than 3,000 sermons that continue to nourish believers around the globe.
The award was accepted on behalf of Dr. MacArthur’s ministry by Jay Flowers, Chief Operating Officer of Grace to You. Notably, the Stuart Epperson Award has previously recognized figures like Nancy and Stu Epperson Jr., Charles R. Swindoll, and Dr. David Jeremiah, all influential in the realm of Christian media. Salem Media continues to be a leader in providing impactful Christian and conservative content across various platforms.
MWN-AI** Analysis
As Salem Media (OTCQX: SALM) continues to establish itself as a prominent player in the Christian media sector, the recent posthumous awarding of the 2026 Stuart Epperson Award to Dr. John MacArthur emphasizes the company's commitment to honoring influential figures in its community. This recognition not only celebrates Dr. MacArthur's lasting impact but also enhances Salem's brand by aligning it with a legacy of faithfulness and excellence, potentially attracting both audience and investor interest.
Investors should consider the implications of this recognition on Salem Media's market position. The enduring influence of Dr. MacArthur, who has shaped the theological landscape through his extensive teaching and publishing efforts, reinforces the value of Salem’s multimedia format in reaching faith-based audiences. The foundational role played by Dr. MacArthur in creating and distributing Christian content aligns well with Salem's objectives to dominate this niche market.
Given the rapidly evolving trends towards digital consumption, Salem's growing digital presence is also a point of interest. The company's ability to leverage its historical assets and deep ties within the Christian community positions it favorably for capturing online traffic and potential revenue growth.
However, potential investors should be mindful of the market's competitive landscape. The introduction of new content platforms and emerging voices in Christian media may pose challenges. While Salem enjoys a robust foundation, continuous innovation and digital engagement strategies will be essential to maintain its competitive edge.
Ultimately, an upward trajectory appears viable for Salem Media, particularly as it celebrates leaders like Dr. MacArthur, whose legacy can strengthen community ties and inspire further growth. Investors should monitor Salem's strategic initiatives and operational performance closely, as the next steps will significantly influence its market positioning in the upcoming quarters.
**MWN-AI Summary and Analysis is based on asking OpenAI to summarize and analyze this news release.
CAMARILLO, Calif., Feb. 25, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Salem Media (OTCQX: SALM) announced today that it has posthumously presented the 2026 Stuart Epperson Award for Excellence in Christian Media to Dr. John Fullerton MacArthur Jr., honoring more than five decades of faithful Gospel ministry and global impact through Christian media.
The award was presented during a private gathering at the 2026 National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) Convention, recognizing Dr. MacArthur as the fourth recipient of the honor. Dr. MacArthur passed away on July 14, 2025, at the age of 86.
Established in 2024, the Stuart Epperson Award honors the legacy of Salem co-founder and longtime chairman Stuart Epperson and recognizes leaders whose work reflects faithfulness, integrity, and enduring Gospel impact in Christian media.
Dr. MacArthur served as pastor-teacher of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California, for 56 years and became one of the most influential Bible expositors of the modern church through his verse-by-verse teaching ministry.
“For more than five decades, Dr. MacArthur exemplified unwavering commitment to Christ and Scripture,” said Dave Santrella, Chief Executive Officer of Salem Media. “Only Heaven will reveal how many millions have come to Christ and learned to love His Word verse-by-verse because of the life and ministry of Dr. MacArthur.”
Dr. MacArthur was the founder and featured Bible teacher of Grace to You, a daily radio program airing since 1977. He was the General Editor of the MacArthur Study Bible, which has sold more than four million copies, the author of more than 400 books and left a library of more than 3,000 sermons that continue to disciple believers worldwide.
He also founded The Master’s Seminary and served as president of The Master’s University, helping train thousands of pastors and Christian leaders serving across the United States and nearly seventy countries.
The award was accepted on behalf of Dr. MacArthur’s ministry by Jay Flowers, Chief Operating Officer of Grace to You, during the private NRB presentation.
John MacArthur began a lifelong friendship with Salem media co-founder Edward G. Atsinger III while attending Bob Jones University between 1957-1959.
Previous recipients of the Stuart Epperson Award include Nancy and Stu Epperson Jr., Charles R. Swindoll and Dr. David Jeremiah.
About the Stuart Epperson Award for Excellence in Christian Media
Created by Salem Media in 2024, the Stuart Epperson Award honors leaders whose contributions to Christian media exemplify faithfulness, leadership, and enduring Gospel impact, reflecting the legacy of Salem’s co-founder and longtime chairman.
About Salem Media
Salem Media is America’s premier multimedia company specializing in Christian and conservative content. Through its national radio network, digital platforms, and publishing brands, Salem reaches millions daily with powerful content that drives the national conversation. Learn more at salemmedia.com.
Company Contact:
[email protected]
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/539020fa-a8ab-4f81-8add-1c57a297daa7
FAQ**
How has Salem Media Group Inc. SALM leveraged Dr. John MacArthur's contributions to enhance its brand and engagement in Christian media following the posthumous award presentation?
In what ways does the legacy of Dr. MacArthur impact Salem Media Group Inc. SALM's strategic direction and outreach initiatives in the Christian community?
What role does the Stuart Epperson Award play in promoting the mission of Salem Media Group Inc. SALM and its commitment to high-quality Christian content?
How might Salem Media Group Inc. SALM utilize the recognition of influential figures like Dr. MacArthur to attract new audiences and expand its multimedia platforms in the future?
**MWN-AI FAQ is based on asking OpenAI questions about Salem Media Group Inc. (OTC: SALM).
NASDAQ: SALM
SALM Trading
4.3% G/L:
$0.4176 Last:
8,424 Volume:
$0.4004 Open:
