David Crantz

Inducted 2000

Deceased  

David Crantz is a broadcaster, impresario, and entertainer whose work with Pittsburgh organizations and events has earned him the title of "Pittsburgh's Toastmaster." 

An early drama participant with a career goal of being an optometrist, Crantz interrupted his college studies for a tour with the Army Air Corps.  Here, he shaped his toastmaster and theatre presence by performing in shows for the military.    

After graduating from college, Crantz worked in theatrical publicity in New England and New York City.  He returned to Pittsburgh as publicity director and assistant general manager of the Pittsburgh Playhouse, where he worked with Shirley Jones, George Peppard, Jack Klugman, and  Charles Grodin.  He also worked for a Pittsburgh advertising agency and headed his own public relations firm.  

Crantz joined the staff of WTAE-TV in 1960 as promotion manager. In 1982 he was named public relations director, a position he held until 1989.  Now semi-retired, he still serves as consultant to the station.  He also serves as administrative director of the Pittsburgh Radio Organization (PRO), a group of Pittsburgh-based radio stations that promote radio.   

During his broadcast years in public relations, community relations and advertising, Crantz helped write and perform such successful television programs as the Morning Show with Hank Stohl, Charlie Chan Theater, and Saturday Nite Instead of the Movies. He has appeared as guest speaker and as master of ceremonies for many city and commonwealth organizations. 

An active member of the community, Crantz served as vice president of the Civic Light Opera Association; president of the Rotary Club of Pittsburgh; president of the Carnegie Mellon Drama Clan; and president of the Pittsburgh Radio/TV Club.  He was a member of the Board of Directors of the National Achievement Clubs and the Board of the Pittsburgh Media Group. 

Crantz served as Joint Board Chairman of the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters in 1980.  In 1989, he was named PAB Radio Broadcaster of the Year.  In 1997, he received PAB's Gold Medal.  

Crantz received a Service Award from the Alumni Association of Carnegie Mellon University.  He has been honored for his George Washington Carver Week activities and by Hand-in-Hand in memory of Dr. Martin L. King.