CMA Honors Robert Deaton With Chairman’s Award
Robert Deaton, the Executive Producer behind the Country Music Association’s CMA Awards, CMA Fest and CMA Country Christmas—was presented with the CMA Chairman’s Award Wednesday, Dec. 2 during the organization’s final Board meeting of 2020, conducted virtually via Zoom.
“I’m amazed year after year at what comes out of that screen,” said Kurt Johnson, CMA Chairman of the Board and Townsquare Media President of Local Programming. “The Awards, Fest and CMA Country Christmas—these are the anchors of the year for country music lovers. Thanks to you and your brilliant vision and your tireless tenacity, they remain the gold standard. ”
“This is the joy of my life,” said Deaton. “I love working with you all. I love the artists in that same sensibility Walter [Miller] had. It’s not just about work, it’s about taking care of each other. I am so honored. This is amazing and has made my year. I appreciate it so much.”
This honor is not an annual award, but instead given when the incumbent Chairman feels an individual or individuals, through outstanding service to CMA, merits the recognition. Additionally, in recognition of their service to the CMA Board of Directors, CMA Chief Executive Officer Sarah Trahern presented mementos to outgoing CMA Chairman Johnson and current President, incoming 2021 CMA Chairman and Senior Artist Manager at Red Light Management, Mary Hilliard Harrington.

Kurt Johnson, CMA Board Chairman, receives the crystal gavel in recognition of his service to the CMA Board of Directors Wednesday, Dec. 2 during CMA’s final Board meeting of 2020.

Mary Hilliard Harrington, CMA Board President and incoming 2021 CMA Board Chairman, receives the crystal globe in recognition of her service to the CMA Board of Directors Wednesday, Dec. 2 during CMA’s final Board meeting of 2020.
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