Sam Klemet spent a decade behind the mic before realizing the best stories aren’t just reported — they’re built. As Vice President of Operations at Catalyst, he brings a broadcaster’s instinct for what makes a message land, paired with the strategic chops he’s sharpened leading some of the region’s most recognizable organizations, including the Detroit Auto Dealers Association and the Michigan Association of Broadcasters.
Hometown
- Royal Oak, Michigan, along historic Woodward Avenue
Fun Facts
- Named Big Brother of the Year as a part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program
- Worked with Detroit Hip-Hop Artist Gmac Cash on a rap song and music video
Media & Honors
- Michigan State University Outstanding Alumni Award, College of Communication Arts and Sciences
- Emerging Leader Award, Rainbow PUSH Coalition and Citizenship Education Fund
- Multiple national honors for creative excellence for the “My Drive. My City. My Show.” campaign
- Founder of the Great Lakes Broadcast and Sports Media Academy at Ford Field, the nation’s largest student-focused event of its kind
- Architect of the award-winning “Be There” broadcasting workforce recruitment campaign
Specialties
- Association management and member engagement
- Brand strategy and storytelling
- Event leadership and audience growth
- Strategic communications
- Industry and community partnerships
Experience
- Executive Director, Detroit Auto Dealers Association and Detroit Auto Show
- President and CEO, Michigan Association of Broadcasters
- Director of Member Services, Indiana Broadcasters Association
- On-air journalist across Illinois, Minnesota, and Indiana
Education & Community
- Michigan State University, College of Communication Arts and Sciences
- Leadership Detroit, Class XLV
- Michigan Society of Association Executives, Board of Directors
- Detroit Economic Club, Board of Directors