04/16/2026
Meet Mike Burgess, our co-emcee and auctioneer for A Night in the Caribbean!
Mike is a native of Van Buren whose career has been shaped by service, storytelling, and community leadership. He spent six years in the United States Air Force as a radio and television news anchor and reporter, traveling throughout Europe, Southeast Asia, and North Africa covering America’s involvement in military conflicts. After being honorably discharged in 1994, Mike returned home and began his civilian broadcasting career as a lead weather anchor—first with Fox Television and later with NBC 24/51, then a locally owned NBC affiliate.
In 2000, Mike transitioned from on‑air television into media sales and leadership, where he discovered a passion for helping organizations grow and connect with their communities. He spent seven years in television sales management at ABC 40/29 before moving into his current role as Senior Vice President with iHeartMedia.
Mike’s relationship with The Gregory Kistler Center spans decades. He previously served as Board President from 2000 to 2005 and had the honor of emceeing the very first A Night in the Caribbean, making this year’s event a meaningful full‑circle moment.
Mike and his wife, Shawna, live in Fort Smith and remain deeply committed to supporting organizations that strengthen the River Valley community. They have one daughter, Emmie Burgess, who is currently attending college in Boston.
Thank you, Mike, for serving The Kistler Center. We're excited to have you!
