ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES ELIZABETH VARGAS AS HOST FOR 48TH ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS LUNCHEON

Musical Talent, Curb Recording Artist, Harper Grace to Perform
June 20 at Cipriani 42^nd Street

June 13, 2023 (New York, N.Y.) – The leadership of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) announces that award-winning television journalist Elizabeth Vargas, host and anchor of  “Elizabeth Vargas Reports” on NewsNation, will host the 48^th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon set for June 20 at Cipriani 42^nd Street in New York City.

The Gracie Awards recognize exemplary content created by, for and about women in all facets of media and entertainment.

“The theme of the 48^th Annual Gracie Awards is Storytelling, and Elizabeth Vargas is the consummate storyteller. She is a veteran in our industry and her authenticity and focus on journalistic excellence make her the perfect fit to help us recognize the local and student winners at this year’s luncheon,” said Becky Brooks, President, Alliance for Women in Media Foundation.

Elizabeth Vargas has covered breaking news and reported on in-depth investigations and stories for decades. Her 15 plus years as host of ABC’s 20/20, serving as Co-Anchor of ABC’s World News Tonight, a frequent host of “Good Morning America” and her work on A&E Investigates, has earned her the trusted reputation and top source for news world-wide. Vargas’ memoir, Between Breaths: A Memoir of Panic and Addiction, released in 2016, landed on the New York Times bestseller list for weeks and won numerous awards. Vargas is a member of the board of directors for the non-profit Partnership to End Addiction and hosts “Heart of the Matter,” a podcast focused on addiction, recovery, and the stigma so many face in their effort to heal.

Performing at the Luncheon will be Curb Records recording artist, Harper Grace. The rising Country star’s initial experience in the spotlight came at just 11 years old when her first public performance of The National Anthem didn’t go as planned, eliciting widespread criticism from an array of online observers and media outlets. Seven years later, the “American Idol” alum redeemed herself by returning to the same stadium and nailing a version of the patriotic song. Now residing in Nashville and currently traveling around the U.S. sharing her anti-bullying message and singing The National Anthem at multiple high-profile venues. Harper also released brand new music in 2023, including two newly-available songs, “Sparkle” on 3/17/23, and “Oh Say Can You See,” an autobiographical track she penned for her 11-year-old self, on 5/19/23.

Presenters at the Gracie Awards Luncheon will include Judi Franco, Co-host #1 rated “Dennis & Judi” midday show on Townsquare’s New Jersey 101.5; Sara Haines, Co-Host, ABC’s The View; Maxwell of the world famous Z100 in New York hosting “The Maxwell & Crystal Show” an iHeartMedia station; Shima Oliaee, CEO and founder of Shirazad Productions; and Brigitte Quinn, creator, host and Managing Editor of Audacy affiliate Newsline on NYC’s WCBS 880.

Sponsors of the Gracies Luncheon include ABC, Audacy, Bonneville, Beasley Media Group, Graham Media Group, Katz Media Group, NCTA-The Internet and Television Association, Fishers Finery, Futuri, Gray Television, Hofstra University, iHeartMedia, News 12, TEGNA, and Townsquare Media, Inc.

The National Gracie Award honorees were recognized at the Gracies Gala, May 23, at The Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills. A full list of recipients may be found on the Alliance for Women in Media website. For more information about the 2023 Gracies Luncheon or to secure tickets, please visit HERE.

About The Gracie Awards

The Gracies Awards is the largest fundraiser of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation which advances women in media through educational programs and scholarships. The Gracie Awards honors exemplary programming and individual talent created by, for and about women. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has created partnerships and joint initiatives with the Emma Bowen Foundation, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), NCTA – The Cable and Telecommunications Association and other organizations that are philosophically aligned with the mission of the Foundation. For more information about The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation and the Gracie Awards please visit allwomeninmedia.org and follow on Twitter (@AllWomeninMedia), (#TheGracies), Instagram (@allwomeninmedia) and Facebook.

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Media Contact:
Jenny Ditto
859.514.3008
jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org

Women in Media Honored at the 48th Annual Gracie Awards, Celebrating Remarkable Achievements and Powerful Storytelling

Marlo Thomas Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award

Presenters and attendees included Atsuko Okatsuka, Jodi Balfour, Bishop Briggs, Rachel Lindsay, Keltie Knight, Rose McIver, Kerri Kasem, Ellen K, and Harriet Dyer

Diane Warren and Shayna Zaid Delivered Breathtaking Performance

Los Angeles, CA. (May 23, 2023) – The 48th Annual Gracie Awards, presented by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF), illuminated the night with an extraordinary celebration of women in media held at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. The evening honored the exceptional talent that have left an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring audiences, and revolutionizing storytelling.

Inside the gala, a powerful atmosphere prevailed, showcasing stories of triumph, civil rights activists, and women who are actively shifting culture through their narratives. The winners of this year’s Gracie Awards embody the spirit and courage exemplified by Gracie Allen, and they serve as a reminder of the invaluable contributions women make in shaping our media landscape.

Marlo Thomas, renowned for her groundbreaking role as television’s first independent single woman in “That Girl” and revered as a Founding Mother of the Ms. Foundation for Women, was honored with the distinguished Lifetime Achievement Award. Tony Thomas, brother of Marlo and an Academy Award nominated television and film producer, presented the award to her.

Additional presenters and attendees included influential figures such as Atsuko Okatsuka, Jodi Balfour, Bishop Briggs, Keltie Knight, Kerri Kasem, Ellen K, Hallie Sahar, Harriet Dyer, Julie Carmen, Lily Moore, Rose McIver, Terri J. Vaughn, Chelsea Gilligan, Sharon Carpenter, and Medalion Rahimi. A special musical performance by 14-time Oscar nominee Diane Warren and Shayna Zaid, enthralled the audience, reminding everyone of the power of music in storytelling. EXTRA’s correspondent, Rachel Lindsay, served as the Gracie Awards social media ambassador, and the ceremony was executive produced by Vicangelo Bulluck.

This year’s Gracies Awards also shined a spotlight on the incredible achievements of women directors and writers. Their talent and dedication were celebrated, emphasizing the critical roles they play in shaping the cultural landscape through their storytelling.

NOTABLE MOMENTS

• Marlo Thomas during her lifetime award acceptance speech said: “All of these memories are nutrition for the soul. And events like this one created by women and recognizing women are our nutrition. You see examples of others who are finding their voices. We hear their dreams  and share their stories. They give us life.They give us enthusiasm that we can continue to make new dreams.”
• Miranda Kwok (The Cleaning Lady), winner of the Writer Scripted – Drama category, said: “I stand here in solidarity with my fellow writers as we fight for fair treatment and compensation and the simple recognition that the soul of a writer cannot be replaced with Artificial Intelligence. As writers, our goal is to enlighten and inspire, to reach hearts and minds, to build compassion and understanding, and to effect change for the betterment of humanity.”
• Presenter Rachel Lindsay introduced the women directors moment with a powerful tribute, recognizing their vital role in shaping on-screen stories following an unprecedented number of submissions saying, “An interesting fact, most people don’t know that women directors were vital to the beginning of cinematic storytelling. But when movies became big business in the 1920’s, the male dominated studio system created monopolies that pushed out female and minority led independent film companies.”
• Michelle Miller (48 Hours: “Katrina Brownlee: The Good Cop”), News Magazine [TV – National] category, said: “I want you to know I’m not old enough to remember Gracie Allen, but I am old enough to remember  her husband, George Burns. I remember him telling stories of this incredible woman, his late wife, adoring stories, but also kind of mischievous ones. And I thought she’s been dead 20 years, and yet he still talks about her like she’s here in this moment. She had to be one heck of a fine lady. One heck of a fine lady. One heck of an extraordinary lady…”

At its core, the Gracie Awards Gala supports AWMF’s charitable efforts. As a non-profit organization, AWMF is dedicated to creating educational programs, charitable activities, and scholarship initiatives that benefit women in the media. By investing in these initiatives, AWMF continues to foster growth, empowerment, and leadership opportunities for women across the industry.

Below, please find links to access house footage, which includes b-roll of arrivals; interviews with honorees and presenters; clips from the ceremony; and more.

Video Credit – Getty Images Video

Photo Credit – Getty on behalf of The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation

Sponsors of The Gracies include Hallmark Media, American Urban Radio Network, Bloomberg, CBS News, CNN, Disney, ESPN, Fox Sports, Katz Media Group, NBCUniversal News Group, NCTA: The Internet & Television Association, Peacock, Premiere Networks, Apple Music, Fishers Finery, and Romano Law.

To view a complete list of award recipients and honorable mentions, visit allwomeninmedia.org. The local and student award-winners will be recognized at the Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 20 at Cipriani in NYC.

About The Gracie Awards

The Gracies Awards is the largest fundraiser of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation which advances women in media through educational programs and scholarships. The Gracie Awards honors exemplary programming and individual talent created by, for and about women. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has created partnerships and joint initiatives with the Emma Bowen Foundation, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), NCTA – The Cable and Telecommunications Association and other organizations that are philosophically aligned with the mission of the Foundation. For more information about The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation and the Gracie Awards please visit allwomeninmedia.org and follow on Twitter (@AllWomeninMedia), (#TheGracies), Instagram (@allwomeninmedia) and Facebook.

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Press Contacts
The Samonte Group
Michael Samonte and Alyssa Kind (Furnari)
Michael@SamonteGroup.com; Alyssa@SamonteGroup.com

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION TO HONOR MARLO THOMAS, TELEVISION’S FIRST DEPICTION OF AN INDEPENDENT SINGLE WOMAN, AND FOUNDING MOTHER OF THE MS. FOUNDATION FOR WOMEN AT 48TH ANNIVERSARY GRACIE AWARDS ON MAY 23

IN FRONT & BEHIND THE CAMERA WINNERS WILL COME TOGETHER AND CELEBRATE THEIR SHARED ACHIEVEMENTS; SPECIAL PERFORMANCE BY SOFIA CARSON AND DIANE WARREN; PRESENTERS INCLUDE MARIA SHRIVER, JODI BALFOUR, CAMILLA LUDDINGTON, AND MORE

WHAT: 

The Alliance for Women in Media will honor Marlo Thomas with the esteemed Lifetime Achievement Award at the 48th Anniversary Gracie Awards, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the industry. The evening will support AWMF’s educational programs, charitable activities, public service initiatives, and scholarships benefiting women in media and will include a special performance by Sofia Carson and Diane Warren. Presenters include 2023 Gracie winner Maria Shriver, Jodi Balfour, Camilla Luddington, and Rachel Lindsay among many others.

WHEN:

The 48th annual Gracie Awards program will take place on Tuesday, May 23, 2023.

Red carpet: 4:30p.m.to 5:30p.m.
Show Begins: 6:00p.m.

WHO:

• Marlo Thomas, Lifetime Achievement Award honoree
• Sofia Carson will be joined by Diane Warren for a special performance
• Maria Shriver, Journalist and Activist and 48^th Annual Gracie Winner
• Jodi Balfour, Ted Lasso
• Camilla Luddington, Grey’s Anatomy
• Rachel Lindsay, Correspondent on EXTRA, Bachelorette, Gracies Social Media Ambassador
• Atsuko Okatsuka, Atsuko Okatsuka: The Intruder, Special or Variety
• Keltie Knight, Host, Superfan
• Lily Moore, Singer and Activist
• Rose McIver, Actress
• Harriet Dyer, Actress
• Ashley Cooke, Singer
• Lily Mae Harrington, Single Drunk Female; Singer
• Kerri Kasem, Radio Host
• Ellen K, Radio Host

HONOREES IN SHOW:

• Maria Shriver, I’ve Been Thinking by Maria Shriver + Sunday Paper, Blog & Website News
• Krista Vernoff, Grey’s Anatomy, Showrunner Fiction – Drama
• Danielle Monaro, Elvis Duran in the Morning Show, Co-Host Nationally Syndicated Radio
• Linsey Davis, ABC News Live: Prime with Linsey Davis, News Program
• Kelleigh Bannen, The Kelleigh Bannen Show, Host/Personality – Streaming Syndicated Radio
• Adreanna Rodriguez, Roe Was Never Enough, Original Online Programming – Standalone Audio
• Ellie Monohan (Daughter of Katie Couric), Next Question with Katie Couric (Behind the scenes of Katie’s cancer diagnosis and treatment), Podcast – Educational
• Shima Oliaee, Pink Card, Podcast Producer – Sports
• Gail O’Grady,Heart of the Matter, Actress in a Supporting Role – Made for TV Movie
• Paola Ramos, Field Report with Paola Ramos, Reporter / Correspondent
• Jodi Koontz, Murphy Sam & Jodi, Host/Personality (Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial)
• Mafer Suárez, María Félix: La Doña, Non-English Individual Achievement -Producer/Director/Writer
• Unthinkably Good Things, Hallmark, Made for Television Movie

ABOUT THE GRACIE AWARDS

The Gracie Awards is the largest fundraiser of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation which advances women in media through educational programs and scholarships. The Gracie Awards honors exemplary programming and individual talent created by, for and about women. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has created partnerships and joint initiatives with the Emma Bowen Foundation, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), NCTA – The Internet & Television Association and other organizations that are philosophically aligned with the mission of the Foundation. For more information about The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation and the Gracie Awards please visit allwomeninmedia.org and follow on Twitter (@AllWomeninMedia), (#TheGracies), Instagram (@allwomeninmedia),  Facebook, and LinkedIn.

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Press Contacts:
The Samonte Group
Michael Samonte and Alyssa Kind (Furnari)
Michael@SamonteGroup.com; Alyssa@SamonteGroup.com

Marlo Thomas, Television’s First Independent Single Woman, Tireless Champion of Children, and a Founding Mother of the Modern Feminist Movement, to be Honored at 48th Annual Gracie Awards Gala on May 23

LOS ANGELES, CA (May 18 , 2023) – Today, the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) announce that legendary Marlo Thomas will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 48th Annual Gracie Awards Gala, taking place on May 23, 2023, at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles. The Gracies Lifetime Achievement Award honors a woman in media who exemplifies and embodies the essence of the late, great media trailblazer Gracie Allen, the namesake of the Gracie Awards.

“Marlo Thomas is not only a true icon of the entertainment industry, but a visionary whose work has left a lasting impact on society,” said Becky Brooks, President of the AWMF. “Her groundbreaking role as Ann Marie in ‘That Girl’ shattered stereotypes and opened doors for women in television. Furthermore, Marlo’s charitable and activist work with the Ms. Foundation for Women and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has transformed countless lives, making her a beacon of hope and inspiration to us all. She truly exemplifies the ethos of AWMF. We’re proud to honor her with this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award.”

Thomas is an award-winning actress, author and activist whose body of work continues to impact American entertainment and culture. She has been honored with four Emmy Awards, the Peabody, a Golden Globe and a Grammy, and has been inducted into the Broadcasting Hall of Fame. In November 2014, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom—the highest honor a civilian can receive—by President Barack Obama at a White House ceremony.

She burst onto the scene as television’s That Girl, which broke new ground for independent women everywhere, and which she also conceived and produced. Her pioneering spirit continued with her creation of the children’s entertainment project, Free to Be…You and Me, which became a platinum album, best-selling book, Emmy Award-winning television special and a stage show. In March of 2021, the original recordwas entered into the National Recording Registry of the Library of Congress to underscore its cultural significance. Proceeds from Free to Be…You and Me went toward the formation of the Ms. Foundation for Women, which was co-founded by Marlo, Gloria Steinem, Letty Cottin Pogrebin and Pat Carbine. They also created Take Our Daughters to Work Day.

Her body of work on television has consistently won her both popular and critical acclaim. In the 2022 holiday season, she co-starred in Hallmark’s A Magical Christmas Village (her first holiday movie since her classic It Happened One Christmas). Additionally, she has lent comedic turns to the Netflix miniseries Wet Hot American Summer:Ten Years Later and Warner Brothers’ Ocean’s 8. Other notable television appearances include her portrayal of a mentally ill woman in Nobody’s Child, for which she won the Emmy for Best Dramatic Actress, and numerous guest appearances on popular series, including Friends, in which she was nominated for an Emmy for her portrayal of Jennifer Aniston’s mom. She has won glowing reviews on stage, most recently in Elaine May’s 2012 Broadway comedy-drama, Relatively Speaking; and in Tony Award-winning playwright Joe DiPietro’s 2015 dark comedy, Clever Little Lies.

For her activism, Thomas has been honored with the Helen Caldicott Award for Nuclear Disarmament; the ACLU’s Thomas Paine Award; the American Women in Radio and Television Satellite Award; the William Kunstler Racial Justice Award; The National Civil Rights Museum Freedom Award; and The Jefferson Award for Public Service, which she received along with Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

At its core, the Gracie Awards Gala supports AWMF’s charitable efforts. As a non-profit organization, AWMF is dedicated to creating educational programs, charitable activities, and scholarship initiatives that benefit women in the media. By investing in these initiatives, AWMF continues to foster growth, empowerment, and leadership opportunities for women across the industry.

About The Gracie Awards

The Gracie Awards is the largest fundraiser of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation which advances women in media through educational programs and scholarships. The Gracie Awards honors exemplary programming and individual talent created by, for and about women. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has created partnerships and joint initiatives with the Emma Bowen Foundation, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), NCTA – The Internet & Television Association and other organizations that are philosophically aligned with the mission of the Foundation. For more information about The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation and the Gracie Awards please visit allwomeninmedia.org and follow on Twitter (@AllWomeninMedia), (#TheGracies), Instagram (@allwomeninmedia),  Facebook, and LinkedIn.

# # #

Press Contacts
The Samonte Group
Michael Samonte and Alyssa Kind (Furnari)
Michael@SamonteGroup.com; Alyssa@SamonteGroup.com

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION HONORS HOFSTRA GRADUATE STUDENT FATIMA MOIEN WITH HER FIRST EVER GRACIE AWARD WIN AND SCHOLARSHIP LIVE ON THE VIEW

Today, the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) surprised Hofstra student, Fatima Moien, on ABC’s The View that she is one of AWMF’s winners of the 48th Annual Gracie Awards. Additionally, Becky Brooks, president of AWMF, presented Moien with a $10,000 scholarship generously donated by ABC News and The View in honor of Barbara Walters. Moien was taken by the gleeful surprise as she heard the news live from the studio audience. She was joined by her parents. 

Moien, a graduate student in Hofstra’s MA Journalism program, was recognized for her work as the on-air talent for the Lawrence Herbert School of Communication’s “Live from Studio A”. The series brings influential media and communications professionals to campus to share their personal stories, advice, and wisdom with Hofstra students. The series is intended to be interactive, vibrant, forward-thinking, and inclusive. 

The Gracies recognize outstanding programming and individual achievement created by women, for women, and about women in all facets of media in news and entertainment. Moien alongside fellow local and student award-winners will be recognized at the Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 20 at Cipriani in NYC. 

National winners, which include Christina Applegate, Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex, Ava DuVernay, Faith Hill, Amanda Seyfried, Danielle Monaro, Shelley Wade, Abbott Elementary, TODAY, The Drew Barrymore Show, 48 Hours, along with frontline journalists,and some of the most talented women in television, radio/audio and digital media, will be honored at a gala event on May 23 at the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel in LA. 

This year’s theme, “Storytelling,” highlights and celebrates the narratives shared by the winners, which not only inform, inspire, and captivate audiences, but also enrich our collective comprehension of the world. 

Watch the full segment here. Please consider sharing this well-deserved career achievement for Fatima Moien. 

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF THE 48TH ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS

CHRISTINA APPLEGATE, MEGHAN, THE DUCHESS OF SUSSEX, AVA DUVERNAY, FAITH HILL, AMANDA SEYFRIED, DANIELLE MONARO, ABBOTT ELEMENTARY, THE DREW BARRYMORE SHOW, FRONTLINE JOURNALISTS, AND MORE TO BE HONORED AT ANNUAL CEREMONY ON MAY 23 IN LA WITH A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO WOMEN DIRECTORS

THE FIRST LADY TO RECEIVE THE PRESTIGIOUS GRAND AWARD

Local and Student Award Winners to be Honored at the Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 20 in NYC

LOS ANGELES, CA (March 30, 2023) – Today, the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) is proud to announce the winners of the 48th Annual Gracie Awards. The Gracies recognize outstanding programming and individual achievement created by women, for women, and about women in all facets of media in news and entertainment. Winners will be honored at a gala event on May 23 at the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel in LA. The local and student award-winners will be recognized at the Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 20 at Cipriani in NYC.

This year’s theme, “Storytelling,” highlights and celebrates the narratives shared by the winners, which not only inform, inspire, and captivate audiences, but also enrich our collective comprehension of the world. Winners include Christina Applegate, Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex, Ava DuVernay, Faith Hill, Amanda Seyfried, Danielle Monaro, Shelley Wade, Abbott Elementary, TODAY, The Drew Barrymore Show, 48 Hours, along with frontline journalists, and some of the most talented women in television, radio/audio and digital media. Moreover, EXTRA’s Rachel Lindsay will once again serve as the organization’s Social Media Ambassador and the AWMF will honor The First Lady with its prestigious Grand Award. While all Gracie Awards celebrate excellence, the Grand Award signifies a distinct level of achievement, acknowledging the extraordinary talent, dedication, and production involved in creating these exceptional pieces.

In addition to recognizing the achievements of individual women and programs, the Gracie Awards will feature a special in-show moment dedicated to recognizing women directors. Following a record number of women director submissions, this tribute will be an important reminder of the crucial role that women play in molding the stories that we see on screen, and the AWMF is committed to shining a spotlight on their contributions and advocating for greater recognition.

Becky Brooks, president, Alliance for Women in Media Foundation said, “As we close out Women’s History Month, it is important to remember the legacy of Gracie Allen, the inspiration behind these esteemed awards. This year’s recipients exemplify Gracie Allen’s spirit through their exceptional talent, innovation, and vision. Their steadfast dedication to their craft and their tenacious resolve to break boundaries serve as a compelling testament to the essential role women play in molding the cultural landscape. We eagerly anticipate celebrating their outstanding accomplishments.”

The Gracie Awards, executive produced by Vicangelo Bulluck, will feature a star-studded lineup of presenters and performers, and will be attended by some of the biggest names in media news and entertainment. The event promises to be a night of celebration, inspiration, and empowerment, as the industry comes together to recognize the exceptional contributions of women in media.

Sponsors of The Gracies include Hallmark Media, Katz Media Group, CNN, and NCTA: The Internet & Television Association.

TELEVISION NATIONAL WINNERS

Amanda Seyfried (The Dropout)

Hulu

Actress in a Leading Role – Made for TV Movie or Limited Series [TV – National]

Amy Sherman-Palladino (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel)

Prime Video

Director – Comedy [TV – National]

Audra McDonald (The Good Fight)

CBS Studios / Paramount+

Actress in a Supporting Role – Drama [TV – National]

Ava DuVernay (Queen Sugar)

OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network

Director – Drama [TV – National]

Showrunner Team (Ms. Marvel)

Walt Disney Studios

Showrunner Fiction – Limited Series [TV – National]

Catherine Gund (Angola Do You Hear Us? Voices From A Plantation Prison)

MTV Documentary Films

Producer – Documentary [TV-National]

Chai Vasarhelyi (Edge of the Unknown with Jimmy Chin)

National Geographic

Showrunner Nonfiction [TV – National]

Charlotte Brändström (The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power)

Prime Video

Director – Adventure/Action [TV – National]

Christina Applegate (Dead to Me)

CBS Studios

Actress in a Leading Role – Comedy or Musical [TV – National]

Dawn Porter (37 Words)

ESPN

Director – Sports [TV – National]

Debora Patta (CBS NEWS)

CBS News

On-Air Talent – News or News Magazine [TV – National]

Faith Hill (1883)

Paramount+

Actress in a Supporting Role – Limited Series [TV – National]

Gail O’Grady (Heart of the Matter)

Hallmark Media

Actress in a Supporting Role – Made for TV Movie  [TV – National]

Kate Abdo (2022 FIFA World Cup – World Cup Tonight)

FOX

On-Air Talent – Sports [TV – National]

Kelly Reilly (Yellowstone)

Paramount Network

Actress in a Leading Role – Drama [TV – National]

Krista Vernoff (Grey’s Anatomy)

ABC & ABC Signature

Showrunner Fiction – Drama [TV – National]

Lindsay Schanzer (148th Kentucky Derby)

NBC Sports

Producer- Entertainment Sports [TV – National]

Liz Feldman (Dead to Me)

CBS Studios

Writer Scripted – Comedy [TV – National]

Mafer Suárez (María Félix: La Doña)

ViX

Non-English Individual Achievement -Producer/Director/Writer  [TV – National]

Mariana van Zeller (Trafficked With Mariana van Zeller)

National Geographic

Producer – Series Unscripted [TV-National]

Miranda Kwok (The Cleaning Lady)

FOX, Warner Bros.Television

Writer Scripted – Drama [TV – National]

Nik Robinson (The Kelly Clarkson Show)

NBCUniversal Syndication Studios

Writer Unscripted [TV – National]

Paola Ramos (“Field Report with Paola Ramos”)

MSNBC

Reporter / Correspondent [TV – National]

Patricia E. Gillespie (The Fire That Took Her)

MTV Documentary Films

Director – Documentary [TV – National]

Production Team (Physical)

Tomorrow Studios / AppleTV+

Producer – Entertainment Scripted [TV – National]

Reneé Rapp (The Sex Lives of College Girls)

HBO Max + Warner Bros. Television Group

Actress in a Supporting Role – Comedy or Musical [TV- National]

Sandra Echeverría (María Félix: La Doña)

ViX

Non-English Individual Achievement – Actress [TV – National]

Talia Parkinson-Jones (TODAY with Hoda and Jenna)

NBC NEWS

Producer- Entertainment Daytime [TV – National]

Tracee Ellis Ross (The Hair Tales)

OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network / Hulu

On-Air Talent – Lifestyle [TV – National]

Vanessa Bayer (I Love That For You)

Showtime

Actress in a Breakthrough Role [TV – National]

Zahra Ullah

CNN

Producer- News [TV – National]

Ziwe (Ziwe)

Showtime

On-Air Talent – Entertainment – Variety [TV – National]

37 Words

ESPN

Non-Fiction Entertainment [TV – National]

48 Hours “Katrina Brownlee: The Good Cop” (48 Hours)

CBS News

News Magazine [TV – National]

A Mother’s War

NBC News NOW

Documentary – International Investigation [TV – National]

Abbott Elementary

Warner Bros. Television

Comedy [TV – National]

ABC News Live: Prime with Linsey Davis

ABC NEWS

News Program [TV – National]

ABC News Studios: Let The World See

ABC NEWS

Limited Series – Unscripted  [TV – National]

Afghanistan Undercover

FRONTLINE (PBS)

Documentary – International Investigation [TV – National]

Atsuko Okatsuka: The Intruder

HBO Max

Special or Variety [TV – National]

Boundless: Betty Skelton

FOX Sports

Sports Program [TV – National]

Goles y Más

ESPN Deportes & ESPN International

Non-English Program – News [TV – National]

In Real Life: Attacked Behind The Wheel

Scripps News

Investigative Feature [TV – National]

Iranian Women (Hoda Kotb)

NBC NEWS – TODAY

Interview Feature [TV – National]

SúperEllas

Canela Media

Non-English Program – Family Programming [TV – National]

Tab Time

YouTube Originals / Kids at Play / Tabitha Brown / Scale Productions

Family Series [TV – National]

The Drew Barrymore Show

CBS Media Ventures

Talk Show – Entertainment [TV – National]

The First Lady

Showtime

GRAND AWARD –  Ensemble Cast – Drama [TV – National]

The Handmaid’s Tale

Hulu

Drama [TV – National]

The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks

Peacock

Documentary – Historical [TV – National]

The Sex Lives of College Girls

HBO Max + Warner Bros. Television Group

Ensemble Cast – Drama [TV – National]

The War in Ukraine (TODAY)

NBC NEWS

Hard News Feature [TV – National]

Unprotected: Inside the Child Welfare Crisis (NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt)

NBC NEWS

News Feature Series [TV – National]

Unthinkably Good Things

Hallmark Media

Made for Television Movie [TV – National]

We Need To Talk (Edie Worthington- CBS Sports)

CBS (United States of America)

Sports Feature [TV – National]

We Need To Talk About Cosby

Showtime

Documentary – Investigative [TV – National]

Women of the Movement

ABC

Limited Series – Scripted  [TV – National]

WWII Veteran Honored (CBS Mornings)

CBS News

Soft News Feature [TV – National]

RADIO NATIONAL WINNERS

Alice Mroczkowski (The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show)

Premiere Networks

Producer – Talk [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Danielle Monaro (Elvis Duran and the Morning Show)

iHeartMedia / Premiere Networks

Co-host [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Jai Kershner (Good Day Show)

Good Day Networks

Outstanding News Anchor [ Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial ]

Jennifer Pak (Marketplace)

Marketplace, APM

Reporter or Correspondent [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

Jodi Koontz (Murphy Sam & Jodi)

Three in the Morning LLC

Host/Personality [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Katrina Barilla (Nessa On Air)

Superadio Network, LLC

Producer – Entertainment [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Kelleigh Bannen (The Kelleigh Bannen Show)

Apple Music Radio

Host/Personality – Streaming [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Leila Fadel (Morning Edition)

NPR

Host [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

Lilly Quiroz (Singer and songwriter iLe’s third album, ‘Nacarile,’ finds a world deeply in flux- Morning Edition)

NPR

Producer [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

Terri Clark (Country Gold with Terri Clark)

Westwood One

Weekend Host / Personality [ Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial ]

The Manns Tackle Black Families and Depression (Café Mocha Radio)

Miles Ahead Broadcasting

Interview Feature [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Abduction and Trafficking of Women in China: A True Story and Analysis

Radio Free Asia Mandarin Service

Non-English Program [Radio – National]

An ‘invisible epidemic’: Survivors of domestic violence on living with traumatic brain injury (On Point)

WBUR

Investigative Feature [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

Behind the decades-long fight to close the ‘boyfriend loophole’ (On Point)

WBUR

Public Affairs [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

CBC: The House (Kyiv Audio Diary)

Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC)

Documentary [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

Getting a degree in prison (All Things Considered & Morning Edition)

NPR

Series [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

Grief and Grit: 10 years after Sandy Hook, one woman continues to wrestle with her double loss

NPR

News Feature [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

Hurricane Ian and Jackson Water Crisis Coverage (Debbie Elliott- NPR’s National Desk)

NPR News

Crisis Coverage/Breaking News [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

Leaked Supreme Court Draft Abortion Opinion

Bloomberg Radio

Special [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Pediatricians brace for the end of federal COVID-19 vaccine funding (Marketplace)

Marketplace, APM

News Feature [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Staying Alive: the History and Hope of “Black Horror” (On the Media)

New York Public Radio

Special [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

The Deja Vu Show

ABC NEWS

Talk Show [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

They’ve spent a lifetime in Kyiv (Elissa Nadworny)

NPR

Interview Feature [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

DIGITAL MEDIA NATIONAL WINNERS

Alaina Urquhart and Ash Kelley (Frozen Head)

Wondery

Podcast Co-host/Ensemble – Entertainment [DM – National]

Alex Cooper (Call Her Daddy)

Spotify

Podcast – Entertainment [DM – National]

Jen Sall (Swipe Night: Killer Weekend)

BULLITT/Tinder

Online Producer [DM – National]

Leila Day (Inside These Walls)

The Stoop Podcast / Radiotopia

Podcast – Producer  [DM – National]

Malika Bilal (The Take)

Al Jazeera

Podcast Host – News [DM – National]

I’ve Been Thinking by Maria Shriver

Shriver Media

Blog / Vlog [DM – National]

Martine Powers and Elahe Izadi (Post Reports)

The Washington Post

Podcast Co-host/Ensemble – News [DM – National]

Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex (Archetypes)

Spotify, Gimlet, and Archewell Audio

Podcast Host – Entertainment [DM – National]

Olivia Carville (How an Elite Sport Plagued by Sex Abuse Turned on Itself)

Bloomberg Originals

Online Video Host / Correspondent / Actress [DM – National]

Shima Oliaee (Pink Card)

ESPN / Shirazad Productions

Podcast – Producer – Sports  [DM – National]

“Untold” & “Betsy & Irv”

ESPN

Original Online Programming – Sports [DM – National]

#IAmVanessaGuillen

Univision News Digital

Original Online Programming – News/Documentary [DM – National]

9 to 5ish with theSkimm

theSkimm

Podcast – Lifestyle [DM – National]

Beyond Butterfly

TIME

Original Online Programming – Standalone Video – Soft News [DM – National]

CNN Style

CNN Digital

Website – Information/Entertainment [DM – National]

Losing my wife and son: Husband shares the tragic reality of postpartum depression

CNN, As Equals

Original Online Programming – Standalone Video – Hard News [DM – National]

Maria Shriver’s Sunday Paper

Shriver Media

Website – News [DM – National]

Next Question with Katie Couric (Behind the scenes of Katie’s cancer diagnosis and treatment)

iHeart Media, Katie Couric Media

Podcast – Educational [DM – National]

Pink Card

ESPN/Shirazad Productions

Podcast – Sports [DM – National]

Roe Was Never Enough

VICE News & Type Investigations

Original Online Programming – Standalone Audio [DM – National]

Sesame Street’s #ComingTogether Word of the Day Series

Sesame Workshop

Original Online Programming – Video Series [DM – National]

The Sausage King

KCBS Radio (Audacy San Francisco)

Podcast – Investigative [DM – National]

TELEVISION LOCAL WINNERS

Danielle Wiggins (GO!)

Different Ducks Media Lab

On-Air Talent [TV – Local]

Jamie Seh (WKMG-TV Sports)

WKMG-TV

On-Air Talent – Sports [TV – Local]

Nzinga Christine Blake (Our America: Reclaiming Turtle Island)

ABC Owned Television Stations

Producer – Scripted / Edited / Live [TV – Local]

Renee Layson (Safe Space)

South Carolina ETV

Director [TV – Local]

Viviana Sarrade (En Lucha por Los Ángeles)

Estrella Media

Non-English Individual Achievement  [TV – Local]

53 Days

WSAZ

Documentary – Investigative [TV – Local]

A Different Cry

WXIA/ TEGNA

Documentary [TV – Local]

A Troubled Ride to School

Action News Jax- Cox Media Group

Series [TV – Local]

Buscando Refugio: Dolor y Esperanza

KCRA 3 News

Non-English Program [TV – Local]

CBC News: Compass – Adopted Sisterhood

Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC)

Soft News Feature [TV – Local]

Deadly Pursuits (Lori Jane Gliha)

FOX31

Investigative Feature [TV – Local]

Fentanyl: The Fears, The Fatalities, The Fight

CBS New York

Hard News Feature [TV – Local]

In Focus Special Report on Pancreatic Cancer

SPECTRUM NEWS NY1

News Program [TV – Local]

My Mom, The Senator (Brittany Miller)

News 12 Networks

Interview Feature [TV – Local]

Sunday GO!

TEGNA/WKYC Studios

News Magazine [TV – Local]

Track star faced remarkable hurdles in life (Darryl Bruffett)

KBTX

Sports Feature [TV – Local]

RADIO LOCAL WINNERS

Beasy Baybie (Beasy Baybie Show, Kiss 103.1-FM)

CUMULUS MEDIA BROADCASTING

Host Non-Morning Drive  (Talk/Personality) Small/Medium Market [Radio – Local]

Carolina Bermudez (Carolina with Greg T in the Morning, 103.5 WKTU-FM)

iHeartRadio

Host Morning Drive- Major Market – Entertainment [Radio – Local]

Christina Musson (Broeske & Musson, KMJ AM/FM Fresno, CA)

CUMULUS MEDIA BROADCASTING

Co-host (Talk/Personality) Small/Medium Market [Radio – Local]

Christine Nagy (Cubby and Christine in the Morning)

iHeartMedia (WLTW)

Co-host (Music DJ/Personality) Large/Major Market [Radio – Local]

Corey Dylan (100.7 BIG FM)

Local Media San Diego

Host Morning Drive – Large Market [Radio – Local]

Erin Hart (Hilley and Hart)

Zimmer Communications

Co-host (Music DJ/ Personality) Small Market [Radio – Local]

Jenn Ryan (B101 Morning Show with Jenn & Bill)

Audacy

Co-host (Talk/Personality) Large/Major [Radio – Local]

Jenny Luttenberger (The Dave Ryan Show)

iHeartMedia

Producer [Radio – Local]

Jessica Dutra (Kramer & Jess)

Audacy (formerly Entercom)

Co-host (Music DJ/ Personality) Medium Market [Radio – Local]

Libby Denkmann (Revisiting Oso, 8 years later.)

KUOW

Host/Anchor [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

Mandy Connell (The Mandy Connell Show)

iHeartMedia

Host Non-Morning Drive (Talk/Personality) Large/Major Market [Radio – Local]

Marcy Williams (Marcy Williams: 95.5 WSB’s “Atlanta’s Morning News”)

Cox Media Group

Outstanding News Reporter [ Radio – Local]

Meghan Offtermatt (No More 24 Part 1 & 2)

WFUV-FM

Reporter/Correspondent [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

Melissa Moore (Middays with Melissa Moore)

Bonneville International

Host Non-Morning Drive (Music DJ/Personality) Medium Market [Radio – Local]

Rebecca Smith (Missouri Health Talks)

KBIA

Producer [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

Roula Christie (The Roula And Ryan Show -104.1 KRBE)

CUMULUS MEDIA BROADCASTING

Host Morning Drive- Major Market – Interview Special [Radio – Local]

Shelley Wade (The Shelley Wade Show)

Audacy New York City

Interview Feature – Music [Radio – Local]

Sherry Taylor (Z95.1 Morning Show with Sherry Taylor)

WQMZ , Charlottesville Radio Group , Saga Communications

Host Morning Drive – Small Market [Radio – Local]

Sophia Hall (WCBS Newsradio 880)

Audacy (formerly Entercom)

Outstanding News Anchor [ Radio – Local]

Stacy McKay (Sunny This Morning with Stacy Mac Kay and Dino Tripodis)

Saga Communications

Host Morning Drive – Medium Market [Radio – Local]

Tammi Mac (Tammi Mac Show)

KJLH-FM

Host Non-Morning Drive (Music DJ/Personality) Major Market [Radio – Local]

Yasmin Young (Yasmin Young Show, WBLK – Buffalo)

Townsquare Media

Host Non-Morning Drive (Music DJ/Personality) Small Market [Radio – Local]

A Mother’s Day Tribute to Naomi Judd and The Judds

WXTU, Beasley Media Group

Soft News Feature [Radio – Local]

Can Coaching And Kindness Coexist?

KCBS Radio (Audacy San Francisco)

Public Affairs [Radio – Local]

Come as you are: a local tribe’s new approach to the fentanyl crisis

KIRO Newsradio

Hard News Feature [Radio – Local]

Genetics and Genealogy: How to decode your risk for cancer  (Debbie Dujanovic)

Bonneville International

Interview Feature – Talk [Radio – Local]

Her Music/Her Story

90.5 WUOL/Louisville Public Media

Special [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

Hurricane Ian Coverage (Marija Puidak – The Wild Bunch Morning Show)

WXKB – Beasley Media Group

Crisis Coverage/Breaking News [Radio – Local]

Stressed out, busy moms say microdosing mushrooms makes life easier and brighter

(Allison Sherry)

Colorado Public Radio

Micro Dosing Interview Feature [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

MPR News with Angela Davis, Your Vote: Abortion is top of mind for many voters

Minnesota Public Radio News

Talk Show [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

myTalkers for Ukraine (KTMY-FM)

Hubbard Broadcasting

Public Service Announcement [Radio – Local]

Radio Rookies: Half of My Parents, All of Me (The United States of Anxiety)

WNYC

Documentary [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

Talking Golf with Ann Liguori

WFAN-NY

Talk Show – Sports [Radio – Local]

The Gee and Ursula Show

KIRO Newsradio

Talk Show – Talk [Radio – Local]

This health clinic fills a gap in care for pregnant people in Wards 7 and 8

WAMU/DCist

Portrait/Biography [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

Trafficking, Inc.

GBH News

Series [Radio Non – Commercial Local]

Uvalde students return to school for the first time since May’s deadly shooting (Camille Phillips)

Texas Public Radio (TPR)

News Feature [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

TELEVISION STUDENT WINNERS

Abby Gunderson (Universe Live)

Brigham Young University

On-Air Talent [TV – Student]

Bailee Tucker (Mountaineer Playbook)

West Virginia University

On-Air Talent – Sports [TV – Student]

Church Health Care (Universe Live)

Brigham Young University

Hard News Feature [TV – Student]

Fatima Moien (Live from Studio A)

Hofstra University

On-Air Talent – Interview Feature [TV – Student]

Gabriella Marinelli (Hofstra Votes Live)

Hofstra University

Producer [TV – Student]

Rowan Hladik (Live from Studio A)

Hofstra University

Director [TV – Student]

WVU Student Becomes First Black Woman to Record “Country Roads” (WVU News)

WVU Reed College of Media

Soft News Feature [TV – Student]

Wyatt Waters: Below the Surface

University of Mississippi

Documentary [TV – Student]

RADIO STUDENT WINNERS

Maya Sargent (Urban Tales)

WFUV / Fordham University

Interview Feature [Radio – Student]

Rachel Luscher (WRHU FM Radio)

Hofstra University

Producer [Radio – Student]

Zoe Trask (Radio Reel)

Xavier University of Louisiana

Host / Personality [Radio – Student]

A Community Affair

Rowan Radio 89.7 WGLS-FM

Talk Show [Radio – Student]

‘Access equals equity’: Anti-censorship advocates fear new book ban’s impact

The University of Missouri

News Feature [Radio – Student]

Combating the mistreatment of Black women in healthcare (WUNC Youth Reporting Institute)

WUNC – North Carolina Public Radio

Public Affairs [Radio – Student]

DIGITAL MEDIA STUDENT WINNERS

Charlee Jane Taormina (Car Company with Charlee & Willa)

Different Ducks Media Lab

Podcast Host [DM – Student]

Felicity Ten Brink (Inside Swoop/Inside Jacksonville)

University of North Florida School of Communication

Online Video Host or Correspondent [DM – Student]

Lisa Setyon-Ortenzio (Alcatraz Sunrise Ceremony Shines Light on Indigenous People’s Day on Oct. 10, 2022)

Stanford University

Online Producer [DM – Student]

How to transition to natural hair — and learn to love it

NPR’s Life Kit

Original Online Programming [DM – Student]

One Year Later: A reporter reflects on the Atlanta spa shootings and anti-Asian violence

The University of Missouri

Podcast [DM – Student]

The Art Field Project

Teacher’s College, Columbia University, WNET’s ALL ARTS

Blog / Vlog [DM – Student]

Complete list of award recipients and honorable mentions, please visit allwomeninmedia.org.

About The Gracie Awards

The Gracie Awards is the largest fundraiser of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation which advances women in media through educational programs and scholarships. The Gracie Awards honors exemplary programming and individual talent created by, for and about women. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has created partnerships and joint initiatives with the Emma Bowen Foundation, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), NCTA – The Internet & Television Association and other organizations that are philosophically aligned with the mission of the Foundation. For more information about The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation and the Gracie Awards please visit allwomeninmedia.org and follow on Twitter (@AllWomeninMedia), (#TheGracies), Instagram (@allwomeninmedia),  Facebook, and LinkedIn.

                                                                        # # #

Press Contacts

The Samonte Group

Michael Samonte and Alyssa Kind (Furnari)

Michael@SamonteGroup.com; Alyssa@SamonteGroup.com

The Alliance for Women in Media and its Foundation Announce the 2023 Board of Directors & Officers

February 22, 2023 (New York City/Los Angeles) – The Alliance for Women in Media and its Foundation (AWM/F) are pleased to announce the 2023 National Board of Directors and Officers. “The role of the AWM and Foundation boards is to lead our organizations and industry as we recognize, connect and educate women in all facets of media.” stated Becky Brooks, president, AWM/F. “With our mission to advance all women in media, it is as vital as ever to have insightful, diverse leadership.  This year’s directors are dedicated to investing their time and resources to guide us and foster growth for AWM and each of our programs.”

OFFICER ROLES

• Annie Howell, Chair, Chief Communications Officer, Hallmark Media
• Katina Arnold, Incoming/Vice Chair, Vice President, Communications, ESPN
• Heather Cohen, Immediate Past Chair, Executive Vice President, The Weiss Agency
• Brenda Hetrick, Treasurer, President, Matrix Solutions
• Monica Bloom Treasurer-Elect, VP of Marketing for First Look Media

NEW DIRECTORS SERVING ON THE BOARD 

The following leaders will begin serving on the AWM Board of Directors for a two-year term:

• Cori Abraham, SVP, Entertainment Unscripted Development, Crime and Documentary Development, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming
• Jayne Bussman-Wise, Creator Acquisition & Growth, Amazon AMP
• Chesley Maddox-Dorsey, CEO, American Urban Radio Network

SECOND-TERM DIRECTORS SERVING ON THE BOARD

The following leaders will serve a second term on the AWM Board of Directors:

• Kenetta Bailey, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Clear Channel Outdoor
• Marsha Cooke, Vice President & Executive Producer, ESPN Films and 30 for 30

INCUMBENT DIRECTORS REMAINING ON THE BOARD

The following leaders will continue serving on the AWM Board of Directors:

• Catherine Badalamente, President & CEO, Graham Media Group
• Thea Mitchem, Executive Vice President of Programming, iHeartMedia
• Marie Tedesco, Chief Financial Officer, Beasley Broadcast Group, Inc.

AMM FOUNDATION BOARD

The following leaders will continue serving on the AWM Foundation Board of Directors:

• Tim Clarke, Senior Vice President, Digital Audio Content, Audacy
• Vicki Lins, President and CEO, CTAM
• Mike McVay, President, McVay Media
• Deborah Parenti, Publisher, Radio Ink, RBR, and TVBR
• Josie Thomas, Former Executive VP, Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, CBS (Retired)
• Christine Travaglini, President, Katz Radio Group

Board photos and bios can be found on the AWM website. Visit here for the AWM board of directors and here for the AWM Foundation board of directors.

Connect with AWM through our @AllWomenInMedia handle on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn and sign up for the FastForward Newsletter for the latest updates and career center opportunities.

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About the Alliance for Women in Media (AWM): The Alliance for Women in Media connects, recognizes and educates women across the media industry. AWM is a diverse community that facilitates industry-wide collaboration, education, and innovation. Established in 1951 as American Women in Radio & Television (AWRT), AWM is the longest-established professional association dedicated to advancing women in media. AWM harnesses the promise, passion and power of women in all forms of media to empower career development, engage in thought leadership, and drive positive change for our industry and societal progress.

About the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF): In 1960, the Alliance for Women in Media became the first professional broadcasting organization to establish an educational foundation. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation supports and promotes educational programs, charitable activities and scholarships to benefit the public and media industry. The Foundation also produces nationally acclaimed recognition programs, including the Gracie Awards®, honoring exemplary programming created by, for or about women and individual achievement. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit, educational organization. For the latest news on the Gracies, follow The Gracies on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. For more information about the Gracie Awards and to submit your entries, please visit www.allwomeninmedia.org/gracies.

Media Contact:

Jenny Ditto

Awards and Public Relations Manager

jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org

1.859.514.3008

Megan Hatlee’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

Being chosen as a 2022 Mattel Fellowship recipient at the Gracies Leadership Awards was an experience I will never forget as I continue to develop my career as a media professional. Throughout the afternoon, I was able to absorb wisdom from leading women in the media industry, including Soledad O’Brien, Nancy Daniels, Debra OConnell, and Wendy Goldberg. Every honoree had a unique and inspiring story to tell. One of the most important lessons I learned from these women and their stories is that adversity is common and can be defeated, and challenges can be overcome through the power of unity and the support of one another. I left the Gracies Leadership Awards with an overwhelming feeling that I can find success in any field of work that I may decide to pursue in the future. This is largely due to the fact that I stand on the shoulders of women before me who have helped pave the way and who have broken glass ceilings in order to open doors for those following in their footsteps.

I also had the opportunity to network with individuals from a variety of media companies on a multitude of platforms. I spoke with men and women who have spent decades in the broadcast radio industry and shared their experience of having lived through the evolution of radio and
seeing first-hand the changes that have occurred through time. Some others in attendance had just started their careers in the industry, getting their feet wet in television or advertising. We shared our common goals for the future and issues currently at hand in the media industry. There was a wealth of information to be learned from every individual in attendance, be it an
honoree, an AWM board member, or a fellow student being sponsored by Mattel or the Google News Initiative.

I am beyond grateful that I had the opportunity to share this experience with other women studying journalism and media from across the country. We fostered friendships, shared life stories, and discussed our passions about the future of the media industry. Being able to spend the afternoon with ambitious, like-minded women was an invaluable experience. Knowing that I am entering the media industry with so many courageous and driven women by my side is both comforting and empowering. I would like to extend my gratitude to Mattel for making this fellowship possible and to the Alliance for Women in Media for hosting the celebratory Gracies
Leadership Awards ceremony where women in the media industry can be recognized for their outstanding efforts and groundbreaking contributions to society.

Megan Hatlee is a recipient of the 2022 Mattel Student Fellowship. She is currently a student at Southern Illinois University, and we look forward to seeing how she continues to shape the world of media in the future.

Alex Dusky’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

I will never forget receiving the email that I was one of seven students chosen to receive the Mattel Fellowship this year. This is such a huge honor not only for myself, but for my University, as no Oklahoma State University student has received such recognition. At the awards ceremony, I was welcomed by none other than Valerie Blackburn, who truly embodies a woman leader in media. Her pure joy to be at the event and kindness towards me was enough to show that many more wonders were in store for me the rest of the afternoon.

I was surrounded by so many wonderful women, both executives in the industry, as well as my peers. It was great to be able to speak with both the other Mattel Fellows and Google News Initiative Fellows. Learning what other females my age are doing at their individual universities was empowering in itself, but little did I know what awaited me from the eight honorees. All of these women had such powerful, yet humble speeches, and each one made sure to appreciate everyone who helped shape them to be the leader they are today. 

This was an amazing opportunity to network and talk one-on-one with those in my industry, specifically Marie Donoghue. She gave a wonderful speech focusing on women in sports and sports media and seeing how she has made it to the top further encourages me to continue to strive for success. 

Thank you to Mattel for making the opportunity for me to attend such an event possible and to the Alliance for Women in Media for hosting the wonderful Gracies Leadership Awards. Continually recognizing and honoring women leaders is how we encourage young women in the industry, and I for one am confident we as a society are heading in the right direction. 

Alex Dusky is a recipient of the 2022 Mattel Student Fellowship. She is currently a student at Oklahoma State University, and we look forward to seeing how she continues to shape the world of media in the future.

Lisa Setyon’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

When I found out that I was selected to attend the Gracies Leadership Awards in New York City, a large smile illuminated my face; I simply couldn’t believe that I was going to have the incredible opportunity to hear from high-achieving women in the industry including keynote speaker, Soledad O’Brien, who has greatly shaped my decision to work in the journalism field.

For me being chosen not only meant that I was going to hear from powerful women in the industry, it also made me realize my worth. Growing up in France, I was accustomed to often being the only black face in the room ‑ and the one ­who people would routinely bet against. They assumed I wouldn’t succeed and, consequently, wouldn’t push me to do better. When I moved to the United States for my undergraduate and master’s degree and saw the larger amount of women of color in media, I regained faith in myself and felt motivated to succeed even more because I was not alone.

Attending the Gracies Leadership Awards reinforced that state of mind.

From the moment I entered the room of the Tribeca 360 11^th floor, I felt inspired, proud and happy. There was so much diversity in the room but also so much power. The room was filled with the promise that the media industry is heading in the right direction. Since my selection, I’d read the honorees’ biographies at least ten times. That day, I read them again on one of the walls in order to keep reminding myself that it was a true honor to be at the Gracies event.

Shortly after that, I sat in the main room with the rest of the guests and the Google News Initiative team. We all chatted and networked for a while and the honorees’ speeches started shortly after.

I felt inspired by each and every one of the honorees and their journeys to success. I enjoyed them sharing not only the accomplishments in their lives but also times where things did not go as planned yet ended up working out. Sharing the good and bad made me realize that despite their accomplishments, these amazing women were also humans, like me.

I felt particularly inspired by Kim Godwin’s speech. Indeed, her speech on not being seen and being denied certain opportunities resonated with me the most: “For every person who didn’t see me, there was a person who did,” Godwin said. “For every person who denied me an opportunity, there was person who gave me one. Because people gave me a chance, I have decided I will give others a chance.”

As I heard Ms. Godwin’s speech, I started tearing up a little because it reminded me of so many times I had the feeling that I didn’t fit in. As bad as it may sound, hearing that a woman as accomplished as her has also had to endure some of the same things as me made me feel less alone. But it has also made me realize that oftentimes when I was being told that I was too angry, too obsessed with including more diversity in the workspace, I was making valid points.

Black women are often portrayed as being angry, being too strong to the point of being inhuman. One main thing that I took away from my experience at the Gracies Leadership Award is that when you fight for respect and for what you truly believe and want, you will find a way to get where you want to be. Some of the honorees said that a few years ago, they would have never thought that they could have had the job position that they have now. The media’s industry willingness to change things, to hire more people of color and accept more different points of view will keep leading to more impactful and powerful changes in the industry. To me, that’s one of the most significant innovations of the coming years.

Lisa Setyon is a recipient of the 2022 Google News Initiative Student Fellowship. She is currently a student at Stanford University, and we look forward to seeing how she continues to shape the world of media in the future.