A Mainstay in Ministry and Media
Written by Rhonda Crowder
Photo by Lewis Burrell
“Your gifts aren’t just for you, they’re for the people you help along the way,” says Dale Edwards, a veteran media executive, community advocate, ordained minister, and retired law enforcement officer whose lifelong mission is rooted in public service, Black empowerment, and truth through media.
He lives by the belief that integrity, service and purpose matter more than titles and accolades. And, with over four decades of impact across journalism, radio broadcasting, policing, and ministry, his journey is a testament to leadership, resilience, and faith.
Edwards currently serves as the President of Region 3 and a National Board Member of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), where he represents and advocates for Black-owned newspapers and media organizations throughout the Midwest. Edwards brings a wealth of cross-platform media experience, strategic vision, and mentorship to the NNPA’s national leadership team.
He is the publisher of the historic Call & Post Newspaper. Under his stewardship, the paper has continued its powerful tradition as a voice for civil rights, community justice, and Black excellence.
In the broadcast world, Edwards is a well-established media owner and operator. He currently owns and manages WABQ 1460 AM/94.7 FM – Mentor/Painesville; WCCD 1000 AM/105.3 FM – Cleveland; and WKTX 830 AM/99.7 FM – Youngstown.
These stations are trusted community platforms for news, gospel music, local talk programming, and civic engagement. Earlier in his career, he held management roles with iconic stations including WZAK 93.1 FM, WJMO 1490 AM, WPAO 1470 AM, and WRTK 1540 AM.
“If we don’t tell our own stories, someone else will and they might not tell it right,” says Edwards when asked why it’s been so important to him to maintain and sustain Black-owned media outlets.
Before dedicating himself fully to media and ministry, Edwards served the City of Cleveland with distinction as a Police Sergeant for 28 years. During his decorated career, he was assigned to The SWAT Tactical Unit, handling high-risk and emergency operations; The Vice Narcotics Division, focusing on criminal drug enforcement; The Community Policing Unit, building relationships between law enforcement and neighborhoods and served as Officer-in-Charge of the 4th District, Cleveland’s largest and most demanding district.
His final assignment was in the Office of Professional Standards, where he was entrusted with investigating internal police conduct, an appointment that reflected his reputation for integrity and leadership.
In recognition of his lifelong contributions to media, music, and public service, Edwards has been inducted into both the Broadcasters Hall of Fame and the R&B Hall of Fame, in addition to receiving numerous awards for civic and community impact.
He is also a proud ordained minister, a calling that reflects his deep faith and dedication to spiritual leadership. His ministry work is rooted in compassion, truth, and service to the most vulnerable.
On a personal level, Edwards is a widowed father of three children: Danelle, mDionne (deceased), and Dale Jr. as well as grandfather of five grandchildren. He plays an active, loving role in raising his grandson, Maverick. Additionally, he’s also the devoted caregiver for his 97-year-old mother.
Despite the demands of business, board leadership, and ministry, Edwards leads his life with humility, service, and an unwavering belief in the power of faith, family, and Black-owned institutions. He is a respected voice nationally, a pillar locally, and a servant-leader whose example continues to inspire.
“Sustaining [our media] means protecting our truth, preserving our culture, and passing the microphone to the next generation so our story never fades,” says Edwards.