Support the Next Generation of Women in Media on Gracies Day of Giving

WHAT:
The AWM Foundation (AWMF) will hold the inaugural Gracies Day of Giving, a fundraiser dedicated to honoring the late Gracie Allen’s birthday. This special day is dedicated to raising funds that directly impact the foundation’s mission of creating positive change in media by producing educational programs, recognition events and scholarships benefitting students pursuing careers in media.

WHEN:
July 26, 2024

DETAILS:
Gracies Day of Giving provides an opportunity for both longtime and new donors to make one-time donations that will significantly impact aspiring female media professionals. Funds raised will support the continuation of programs including the Gracies Leadership Awards Fellowship, enabling students to participate and attend the event.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE:

• Date: July 26, 2024
• How to Donate: Visit AWMF’s donation page or donate via Venmo @AWM-Foundation
• Share: Use the hashtag #GraciesDayOfGiving on social media to spread the word.

UPCOMING EVENT:
The Gracies Leadership Awards, taking place on November 19 at Tribeca 360° in New York City, will celebrate the profound influence women have made in the media industry. Funds raised from Gracies Day of Giving will provide students with networking and educational opportunities by connecting with industry trailblazers.

Alliance for Women in Media Foundation Announces Gracies Day of Giving

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) is proud to announce the inaugural Gracies Day of Giving on July 26, in honor of the late Gracie Allen’s birthday. This special day is dedicated to raising funds that directly impact the foundation’s mission of creating positive change in media by producing educational programs, recognition events and scholarships that benefit students pursuing careers in media.

Gracies Day of Giving provides an opportunity for longtime and new donors to give one-time donations and have a lasting impact on the lives of aspiring female media professionals. Funds raised on this day will enable the AWMF to continue its tradition of students participating in the Gracies Leadership Awards Fellowship program and attending the event.

“We are thrilled to launch the Gracies Day of Giving as a way to honor Gracie Allen’s legacy and support the next generation of women in media, especially as we begin planning for the 50^th anniversary of the Gracie Awards” said Becky Brooks, President of AWMF. “Generous contributions will allow us to continue offering vital resources and opportunities to young women who are poised to make significant contributions to the media industry.”

The Gracies Leadership Awards, set to take place on November 19 at Tribeca 360° in New York City, celebrate the profound contributions women have made in the media industry, while also inspiring and empowering the female leaders present. Through the funds raised on Gracies Day of Giving, AWMF will be able to provide students with networking and educational opportunities connecting with industry trailblazers.

How to Participate:

• Date: July 26, 2024
• How to Donate: Visit AWMF’s donation page to make your one-time contribution or donate via Venmo @AWM-Foundation
• Share: Spread the word about Gracies Day of Giving on social media using the hashtag #GraciesDayOfGiving.

Every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant difference in advancing all women in media. Join us on July 26 to celebrate Gracie Allen’s legacy and support the future of women in media.

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 AWMF 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, X,  LinkedIn and Facebook. For more information visit www.allwomeninmedia.org/gracies.

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Press Contacts
Jenny Ditto
jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org

Alliance for Women in Media Foundation Celebrates 49th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon

Deborah Roberts of ABC News Hosted and Suzyn Waldman Receives Lifetime Achievement Award at Cipriani 42^nd Street in New York City

PHOTOS AND CLIPS: CLICK HERE *Credit: Getty Images for AWM (Alliance for Women in Media Foundation)

June 18, 2024 (New York City) – The AWM Foundation (AWMF) presented the 49^th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon at Cipriani 42^nd Street in New York City on June 18. Host Deborah Roberts, Senior National Affairs Correspondent at ABC News and esteemed co-anchor of the iconic news magazine “20/20,” led the program alongside presenters Tiki Barber, former New York Giants running back and radio host on WFAN; Kristine Johnson, anchor on WCBS-TV NYC andCBS Mornings contributor; Chloe Melas, entertainment correspondent, NBC News; Nessa, host of NYC Hot 97 andNessa On Air; Amina Smith,anchor of ESPN’sSportsCenter and Shelli Sonstein, radio host on iHeartMedia’s Q104.3. The program concluded with Meredith Marakovits, clubhouse reporter for the YES Network, presenting the Lifetime Achievement Award to award-winning broadcaster for the New York Yankees and radio color commentator, Suzyn Waldman. AWM/F President, Becky Brooks, described the event as “the perfect culmination of a Gracies season celebrating excellence in media and a poignant lead up to the 50^th Annual Gracie Awards next year.”

The Gracie Awards were presented to honorees which were previously announced (full list of honorees here) in recognition of individual achievement and outstanding programming by, for and about women in local and student television, radio and digital media.

Highlights from the show included:

• AWMF Board Chair and VP of Corporate Communications at ESPN, Katina Arnold opened the Luncheon by acknowledging “This year’s theme, “Feminine Strength, Both Large and Small,” highlights impactful contributions of women in media, whether through grand, sweeping narratives or intimate, personal and local stories in our communities.”
• Host, Deborah Roberts, of ABC News reflected, “This celebration of work has been special… I remember when I was awarded a Gracie in the early days and just how special it was and continues to be… We reveled in the woman power we felt in this room, and I feel it today.”
• Presenter, Chloe Melas, entertainment correspondent for NBC News acknowledged that “The journey in media can be a long one, especially for women, and love seeing a room like this full of brilliant journalists telling important stories… reflected on her early career in journalism and connections and noted, “They say the pen is mightier than the sword, and I’m here to tell you that’s true.” anchor on ESPN’s SportsCenter, said “celebrating students in the same awards program as those of you in local television and radio as well as the Deborah Roberts’ of the world is so inspiring.”
• Heather Cohen, President, The Weiss Agency, AWMF Board Member and Gracies Co-Chair, introduced Emma Myers, the AWMF/Podcast Movement Scholarship recipient and noted, “The AWM Foundation plays a crucial role in the industry by providing scholarships and offering programs specifically focused on supporting women in media and their educational endeavors.”
• Presenter, Nessa, host of NYC Hot 97 and Nessa on Air inspired the audience reflecting on her years working as a young intern and said: “This is a reminder to embrace every challenge as an opportunity. Each effort, no matter how small it seems, leads you to success. And the secret is, consistency is ALWAYS key.”
• Presenter, Tiki Barber, former New York Giants running back and radio host on WFAN, said, “I’ve been very fortunate to have been mentored by many women, including my mother…women have played an enormous role in my media career and also my life. Tiki reflected that it hasn’t been all football, but 25 years ago he interned for WFAN and now is host.
• Presenter, Shelli Sonstein, radio host at iHeartMedia’s Q104.3 said, “I’ve often said, “The microphone is a powerful thing, it’s a sin to have a mic and not use it to do good.”
• Kristine Johnson, anchor of WCBS-TV NYC and contributor for CBS Mornings, noted on her career path, “Along the way I was fortunate enough to have male and female mentors on my career path, but the one thing I am noticing now and embracing now is the amount of female executives we have in our industry.”
• Meredith Marakovits of the YES Network’s Yankees Clubhouse, introduced her friend and Gracies Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Suzyn Waldman, pointed out, “From world series wins to perfect games she was there… and she kept us informed and entertained in a way only she could… in the process she paved the way… or perhaps better stated bulldozed down the door for future generations of women in sports media. 
• Longtime sports broadcaster for the New York Yankees, Suzyn Waldman accepted her Gracies Lifetime Achievement Award and captivated the audience with stories of her four decades in sports broadcasting and also noted, “I’m probably one of the few people in this room who listened to and the saw Gracie Allen ever week on radio and then TV… there’s no I Love Lucy, without Gracie Allen, and probably an even better example, there’s no Betty White without Gracie Allen. She knew who she was, learned how to sell it perfectly for the times, and she was original. Thank you Gracie Allen…” Waldman closed with prudent advice, “I get women coming up to me all the time saying, ‘I want to be you, I want your job’… ‘ok, that’s great… but if you take MY job, there’s still only one of us, if you make your OWN job… there’s 2 of us.”

The National Gracie Award honorees were recognized at the Gracies Gala, May 21, at The Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills. Again, a full list of recipients may be found on the Alliance for Women in Media website.

For an opportunity to continue giving to the AWM Foundation, bid on the Gracies Gift & Gala Giveaway and donate.

Sponsors of the Gracies Luncheon include: American Urban Radio Network, Audacy, Beasley Media Group, Cumulus Media, Disney Entertainment, ESPN, Graham Media Group, Hallmark Media, Hearst Television, Hofstra University, iHeartMedia, Katz Media Group, NCTA: The Internet & Television Association, Red Apple Media & WABC Radio, and Townsquare Media.

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 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 us on X (@AllWomeninMedia), (#TheGracies), Instagram (@allwomeninmedia), Facebook, and LinkedIn.

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Media Contact:
Jenny Ditto 
859.514.3008
jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org

Alliance for Women in Media Foundation Announces Deborah Roberts as Host for the 49th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon

Suzyn Waldman, Longtime Yankees Sports Announcer to Receive Lifetime Achievement Award

June 5, 2024 – The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) leadership announces Deborah Roberts, Senior National Affairs Correspondent for ABC News and Co-Anchor of “20/20,” will host the 49th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 18, at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City.

AWMF is also proud to honor Suzyn Waldman, pioneering Yankees sports announcer with the Gracies Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her extraordinary contributions to sports broadcasting for over four decades, notably as one of the first women to cover Major League Baseball. Her dedication and pioneering spirit have paved the way for many women in sports media.

Roberts, a veteran journalist, has traveled the globe covering pivotal events and has earned numerous accolades for her in-depth reporting. Among her honors, she received a Peabody Award for the “20/20” special “Say Her Name: Breonna Taylor” and multiple Emmy® Awards for her coverage of significant international and national events, including the AIDS crisis in Africa and maternal mortality in Bangladesh. Additionally, Roberts is a familiar face on “Good Morning America” and “The View,” where she serves as a substitute anchor and guest co-host, respectively. Beyond her on-screen achievements, Roberts is an accomplished author. Her New York Times bestseller, “Lessons Learned and Cherished: The Teacher Who Changed My Life,” and the co-authored book with her husband, Al Roker, “Been There, Done That: Family Wisdom for Modern Times,” have both resonated with readers.

“We are honored to have Deborah Roberts, an exemplary journalist and storyteller, host this year’s Gracies Luncheon. Her illustrious career and dedication to impactful reporting epitomize the values we celebrate at the Gracie Awards,” said Becky Brooks, President of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation. Additionally, we are honored to recognize Suzyn Waldman’s pioneering contributions to the industry with the Gracies Lifetime Achievement Award. This event promises to be a memorable celebration of talent and achievement in media.”

The Gracie Awards Luncheon, a cornerstone event of the Gracie Awards, celebrates the exceptional contributions of women in media and will touch on this year’s theme of “Feminine Strength, both Large and Small,” highlighting incredible achievements of women who have documented and narrated critical moments in local communities, providing a platform for student winners whose inspiring content signals a bright future for the media industry.

Thank you to our sponsors: Audacy, Disney Entertainment, ESPN, Graham Media Group, Hallmark Media, Hearst Television, Katz Media Group, NCTA: The Internet & Television Association, Red Apple Media & WABC Radio, American Urban Radio Network, Beasley Media Group, Cumulus Media, Hofstra University, iHeartMedia, and Townsquare.

The National Gracie Award honorees were recognized at the Gracies Gala, May 21, at The Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills. A full list of winners may be found on the Alliance for Women in Media website. For more information about the 2024 Gracies Luncheon or to secure tickets, please visit HERE.

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 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 us on X (@AllWomeninMedia), (#TheGracies), Instagram (@allwomeninmedia), Facebook, and LinkedIn.

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Media Contact:
Jenny Ditto
Awards & Public Relations Manager
Email: jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org
Phone: 859-514-3008

CAROL BURNETT HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD AT 49TH ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS

Tamera Mowry-Housley Hosted the Evening Celebrating Women in Media

Winners & Presenters Included Jane Fonda, Kristen Wiig, Maria Shriver, Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach, Phylicia Rashad, Natalie Morales, Sheryl Underwood, Yvette Nicole Brown, Mayan Lopez, and Many More!

Rachel Platten’s Performance Captivated Audiences

Los Angeles, CA. (May 21, 2024) – The 49th Annual Gracie Awards, hosted by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF), illuminated the evening with a captivating celebration of women in media at the esteemed Beverly Wilshire Hotel. The event, hosted by Tamera Mowry-Housley, commemorated the remarkable achievements of women across various media platforms, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to storytelling and cultural transformation.

This year’s theme was centered on “Feminine Strength, both Large and Small,” highlighting impactful actions resonating on various scales. Among the distinguished honorees was Carol Burnett, a trailblazing figure known for her groundbreaking roles and whose impact spans decades and resonates with audiences of all ages. Burnett was bestowed with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by castmate of Palm Royale, Kristen Wiig.

The Gracie Awards Gala embodies AWMF’s commitment to supporting women in media through charitable endeavors, educational programs, and scholarship initiatives. By investing in these initiatives, AWMF continues to empower women and cultivate leadership opportunities across the industry. 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.

Winners and presenters included influential figures such as Jane Fonda, Natalie Morales, Sheryl Underwood, Yvette Nicole Brown, Mayan Lopez, Melissa Peterman, Emma Kenney, Danielle Pinnock, Amanda Kloots, Lauren E. Banks, Sharon Carpenter, Allison Holker, Christina Elmore, Kim Fields, Betsy Brandt, Sutton Stracke, Crystal Kung Minkoff, and Amy Chozick. Attendees include Maria Shriver, Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach, Phylicia Rashad, Garcelle Beauvais, Mary McDonnell, Mariana van Zeller, and more. The audience was captivated by a special musical performance of “Girls” by Rachel Platten. Raegan Revord lent her support as the Gracie Awards’ Digital Impact Ambassador, while Vicangelo Bulluck executed the evening as executive producer.

NOTABLE MOMENTS

• Tamera Mowry-Housley started the show by saying, “We are living in historic times and our voices are needed to stand up for our rights. Infusing our collective feminine strength into media, we can change attitudes, empower audiences, and create productions that speak to us, for us.”
• While presenting to Carol Burnett, Kristen Wiig humorously expressed her admiration, stating, “Personally, it is surreal for me to be here, to even know you… because you have been such an inspiration.” Reflecting on her childhood watching the Carol Burnett Show, Wiig credited Burnett with planting the creative seeds that grew her love for sketch comedy. She affectionately joked, “So Carol, in many ways it’s like you’re my oldest friend, but also you ARE my oldest friend.” Wiig continued, “It’s been an absolute honor and joy to work alongside you, Carol, in Palm Royale. And I mean this, no one plays coma patient like you.”
• During her acceptance speech for the Lifetime Achievement Award, Carol Burnett playfully remarked, “I was unfortunately (believe it or not!) too young to have met the legendary Gracie Allen, who is the inspiration for these awards, but I think we might have had a lot in common and her iconic work as an artist paved the way for all the women who came after her, including me.”.
• Jane Fonda, before introducing Maria Shriver (Conversations Above the Noise with Maria, Best Online Video Host), articulated, “I made my first movie in 1949, and there were no women on the set. We, women, experience things differently–war, peace, famine. If you don’t have our voices in the arts, you’re not getting the whole story. It doesn’t just hurt us; it hurts men because they only get half the side.”
• Maria Shriver reflected on her journey in media, from intern to media entrepreneur, emphasizing the significance of women’s voices in today’s media landscape. She underscored the responsibility each individual holds in using their platform wisely, stating, “Today everyone seems to have a platform but not everyone is responsible with it.” Shriver expressed gratitude for the Gracie Award, highlighting the importance of producing meaningful content that makes a difference in shaping public discourse and acknowledging the women who paved the way for her.
• Abby Wambach joined Glennon Doyle on stage where Doyle’s acceptance speech (Best Lifestyle Podcast Co-host/Ensemble, “We Can Do Hard Things”) highlighted the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare. Sharing her sister’s story of early cancer detection through persistent advocacy, “Because of our conditioning it’s hard to advocate on behalf of ourselves but I assure you that my sister’s self-advocacy is the greatest act of love and service she’s ever done for the world. When she saved herself, she saved the life of her children’s mother, her husband’s wife, our parent’s daughter – our sister. She saved so many of us when she saved herself.”
• Garcelle Beauvais expressed deep gratitude for the recognition of her film, “Black Girls Missing” (Made for Television Movie). Beauvais emphasized the film’s mission to shed light on the critical issue of missing black and brown individuals, striving to ensure their visibility and voices are heard, “Shedding light when black and brown people go missing has been our mission with this movie. We want to be seen and heard!”
• Lauren Book, Florida Senate Minority Leader and survivor of child sexual abuse, shared her mission to prevent abuse through the Lauren’s Kids Foundation, stating, “Today, standing on this stage, knowing we are educating millions of kids every single year… Teaching personal safety from a place of fun and not fear.” Expressing gratitude to the Gracie Awards for recognizing their work, Book emphasized the importance of collective action in creating a safer future for children, urging support for their cause at LaurensKids.org.

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: https://gettyvideo.digitalpigeon.com/msg/lVqsUBfiEe-CgQKVS2kCPQ/1XXwSc1JDlrJVhJ_NK5Nrg

Photo Credit – Getty on behalf of The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation: https://dam.gettyimages.com/assignments/49th-annual-gracie-awards

Gracies Gift Bags feature a personalized selection including a custom Gracies Bag by Henry Dry Goods, and curated items from Nodpod, St. Martin’s Publishing Group Providing “The Women” by Kristin Hannah, Hallmark Media, AquaVault, Cozy Earth, Dr. Brandt, Fount Society Balancing, FreshCut Paper, No7, Peepers, Shinery, Sunday Citizen, VoChill, and much more, provided by esteemed partners.

For an opportunity to continue giving to the AWM Foundation, bid on the Gracies Gift & Gala Giveaway and donate.

For a complete list of award recipients and honorable mentions, please visit https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies. Local and student award recipients will be honored at the Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 18 at Cipriani’s in NYC.

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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 us on X (@AllWomeninMedia), (#TheGracies), Instagram (@allwomeninmedia), Facebook, and LinkedIn.

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

TAMERA MOWRY-HOUSLEY TO HOST THE ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION’S 49TH ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS ON MAY 21

Kristen Wiig to Present the Lifetime Achievement Award to Carol Burnett

Presenters and Attendees Include Maria Shriver, Glennon Doyle & Abby Wambach, Candace Parker, Natalie Morales, Sheryl Underwood, Yvette Nicole Brown, Mayan Lopez, Emma Kenney, Danielle Pinnock, Mariana van Zeller, Nikki & Brie Garcia, and More

May 13, 2024 – Today, the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation proudly announces that Emmy award-winning host, author, actress, producer, and entrepreneur Tamera Mowry-Housley will host the 49th Annual Gracie Awards, set to take place on May 21 at the iconic Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel in LA. The Gracies honor exceptional achievements in media dedicated to women, by women, and about women across diverse platforms in news and entertainment.

Kristen Wiig is set to grace the stage to present her Palm Royale co-star, Carol Burnett, with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. Additional presenters include Candace Parker, Natalie Morales, Sheryl Underwood, Yvette Nicole Brown, Mayan Lopez, Emma Kenney, Danielle Pinnock, Amanda Kloots, Lauren E. Banks, Nikki and Brie Garcia, Sharon Carpenter, Allison Holker, Christina Elmore, Kim Fields,Betsy Brandt, Sutton Stracke, Crystal Kung Minkoff, and Amy Chozick. Attendees include Maria Shriver, Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach, Phylicia Rashad, Garcelle Beauvais, Mary McDonnell, Mariana van Zeller, and more. Adding to the evening’s allure, Rachel Platten is slated to deliver a captivating performance, and Raegan Revord will serve as AWMF’s Digital Impact Ambassador.

“This year’s event promises to be truly memorable with Tamera Mowry-Housley at the helm,” said Becky Brooks, president of AWMF.“As a beacon of empowerment and success, Tamera has inspired countless young women, breaking barriers and uplifting others, thus setting a remarkable example for women in the industry and beyond.”

This year’s content themes are centered on “Feminine Strength, both Large and Small,” highlighting impactful actions resonating on various scales, as exemplified in acclaimed productions like Yellowjackets, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and We Can Do Hard Things. Among the distinguished winners are influential figures such as Michelle Obama, Gayle King, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Nicole Kidman, Angela Yee, and Rachel Brosnahan. Inside the gala, powerful stories of triumph, civil rights activism, and cultural shifters are celebrated, embodying the spirit and courage of Gracie Allen, the namesake of these prestigious awards.

Tamera Mowry-Housley started her career in Hollywood alongside her sister, Tia, on the hit show Sister, Sister, which aired over 100 episodes from 1994-1999 and has gone on to see a cultural revival over the past few years since it was released on Netflix. Tamera’s work on the show gained praise and recognition; she received an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series and Kid’s Choice Award for Favorite Television Actress. She returned to the screen with her sister, Tia, on the hit Style Network reality TV series Tia and Tamera, chronicling her life as she balanced her acting career and major life transformations of marriage and motherhood.

Tamera co-hosted the Emmy-winning talk show The Real for six seasons alongside Loni Love, Adrienne Bailon-Houghton, and Jeannie Mai Jenkins, winning the Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show Host Emmy at the 45th Daytime Emmy Awards in April 2018.

Known for her versatile talents, Tamera has had a prolific career spanning television movies, series, and voice acting. Notably, she starred in and executive produced Hallmark Channel’s hit movie The Santa Stakeout and has appeared in various beloved Christmas films. Her recent projects include Girlfriendship and Haunted Harmony Mysteries: Murder in G Major. With a new holiday film for the Hallmark Channel set for release in fall/winter 2024, Tamera continues to captivate audiences with her charisma and talent.

For a complete list of award recipients and honorable mentions, please visit allwomeninmedia.org.

Gracies Gift Bags feature a personalized selection including a custom Gracies Bag by Henry Dry Goods, and curated items from Nodpod, St. Martin’s Publishing Group Providing “The Women” by Kristin Hannah, Hallmark Media, AquaVault, Cozy Earth, Dr. Brandt, Fount Society Balancing, FreshCut Paper, No7, Peepers, Shinery, Sunday Citizen, VoChill, and much more, provided by esteemed partners.

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 us on X (@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

Alliance for Women in Media Announces AWM Breakfast at the NAB Show Speaker Panel

What: Join the Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) for an insightful panel discussion on “The Business of Multiplatform Sports” at the AWM Breakfast during the NAB Show. Esteemed presenters Jeanne-Marie Condo (President of Network Partnerships and Chief Revenue Officer, Skyview Networks), Pat LaPlatney (Co-CEO/President, Gray Television), Mary Menna (Vice President & Market Manager, Beasley Media Group), and Carlson Mozdiez (Vice President, Digital Business Operations, Audacy), alongside moderator Sarah Foss (Chief Technology Officer, Audacy), will engage in a candid conversation exploring the evolving landscape of sports business and the significant role women play in shaping its future. The panel will dive deep into the emergence of multiplatform sports coverage and how it has reshaped the business landscape of the sports industry, and how media professionals have leveraged multiplatform sports to enhance audience engagement and reach a diverse set of viewers and more.

Where: West Hall, Las Vegas Convention Center, rooms W102-104

When: Date: April 15 – Time: 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM PT

Details: The AWM Breakfast at the NAB Show is a premier event that brings together industry professionals from television, radio, technology, and service partners. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy a continental breakfast, network with top executives, and gain valuable insights from the panel discussion featuring influential leaders in the media industry.

Registration: Purchase tickets by April 10, by going tohttps://allwomeninmedia.org/events/awm-breakfast-nab/  AWM Members will want to login before registering to receive the discounted rate. *Attendees do not have to purchase a ticket to the NAB Show to attend the AWM Breakfast.

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.

For media inquiries, please contact: Becky Brooks, President, AWMF, becky.brooks@allwomeninmedia.org

The Alliance for Women in Media and its Foundation Announce the 2024 Board of Directors & Officers

February 15, 2024: The Alliance for Women in Media and its Foundation (AWM/F) are pleased to announce the 2024 National Board of Directors and Officers. “The leadership of our Board of Directors has allowed AWM and our Foundation to advance women in media for more than seventy years of triumphs and trials,” said Becky Brooks, President, AWM/F. “The past year has underscored the need for steadfast leadership in the face of unforeseen challenges. The mix of diverse and insightful voices on this year’s Boards will continue the important work of prioritizing recognition, connection and education of women across all facets of media.”

OFFICER ROLES

• Katina Arnold, Chair, Vice President, Corporate Communications, ESPN
• Monica Bloom, Incoming/Vice Chair, Chief Marketing Officer, MHz Choice | Topic Streaming
• Annie Howell, Immediate Past Chair, Chief Communications Officer, Hallmark Media
• Catherine Badalamente, Treasurer, President & CEO, Graham Media Group
• Marie Tedesco, Treasurer-Elect, Chief Financial Officer, Beasley Broadcast Group, Inc.

NEW DIRECTORS SERVING ON THE BOARD 

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

• Isabel Lara, Chief Communications Officer, NPR
• Jaclyn Levin, President, Shriver Media; Founder, Liminal Space Media
• Christine Moran, Head of Creator Partnerships, Electrify Video Partners
• Debra OConnell, President, News Group and Networks, Disney Entertainment

SECOND-TERM DIRECTORS SERVING ON THE BOARD

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

• Thea Mitchem, Executive Vice President of Programming, iHeartMedia

INCUMBENT DIRECTORS REMAINING ON THE BOARD

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

• Cori Abraham, SVP, Entertainment Unscripted Development, Crime and Documentary Development, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming
• Kenetta Bailey, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Clear Channel Outdoor
• Jayne Bussman-Wise, VP, Team Business Operations, Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL)
• Marsha Cooke, Vice President & Executive Producer, ESPN Films and 30 for 30
• Chesley Maddox-Dorsey, CEO, American Urban Radio Network

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
• Heather Cohen, President, The Weiss Agency
• Vicki Lins, President and CEO, CTAM
• Mike McVay, President, McVay Media
• 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, X 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 AWMF 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.

Media Contact:

Jenny Ditto
Awards and Public Relations Manager
jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org
1.859.514.3008

Allison Williams’ Experience at the 2023 Gracies Leadership Award

My experience at the 2023 Gracies Leadership Awards excelled my expectations. Besides the beautiful venue in Tribeca and delicious lunch, the Gracies were inspiring and lit a fire in me as I near graduation from the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

When I was accepted as a Google News Initiative Fellow and would be able to attend the Gracies Luncheon I could not believe it- I was counting down the days. Since I was 14, I’ve known I wanted to work in broadcast journalism, and being in a room with women alike is something I’ve never experienced.

I grew up watching MSNBC, whether it was The Today Show or Nightly News, so being in the same room as Rashida Jones, MSNBC president, was surreal. Without the Gracies, I’m not sure I would’ve ever been able to introduce myself to her and be able to stay connected after.

All the women honored at the luncheon had a common theme in their acceptance speeches: they didn’t get where they are alone. Their speeches were heartwarming and honest as they thanked their pears, family and team members they’ve met over the years that have kept them motivated.

Not only were all the women honored at the event willing to stay in touch with myself and the other fellows, but the Alliance for Women in Media board members were as well. The board members have been able to make introductions to their colleagues working in the broadcast journalism field. As I approach graduation, it’s getting close to finding a job where I can learn and grow to become the best journalist I possibly can be, and these introductions are going to be invaluable as time goes on.

I am so thankful I was able to attend the Gracies Leadership Awards luncheon as a Google News Initiative Fellow and look forward to keeping up with my membership in the Alliance for Women in Media.

Allison Williams is a recipient of the 2023 Google News Initiative Student Fellowship. She is a Journalism student at Columbia University, and we look forward to seeing how she continues to shape the world of media in the future.

Helena Arjona’s Experience at the 2023 Gracies Leadership Award

Funnily enough, I didn’t come into college to be in media, I came into college as a computer science major. As I started my first weeks in college at the University of Kentucky, I found my way into a club for women in STEM. At the time, I felt so lucky to be able to find a club to empower women in my field. There was a problem, though. I HATED computer science. Flash forward a couple of years. Somehow, I found myself doing a complete 180. I was no longer a compsci major but instead a triple major in media, journalism, and writing. I was happy to find my path, but sad to lose the strong community of women.

I applied to the Google New Initiative Fellowship thinking there was no way I would become a fellow. Months later, I am still overwhelmed and in disbelief by the whole new world I have been exposed to through this fellowship. Through the Alliance for Women in Media, I have regained a strong community of women. I am so humbled to be able to share this fellowship with the other amazingly accomplished women I had the pleasure of meeting while attending the Gracies in New York. To be able to meet the honorees has only solidified my sense of belonging in this industry as we continue to accept more women and people of color into the community than ever before. Being able to hear from and network with such strong role models has given me more energy than ever before. A common theme throughout the ceremony was to lift up the next generation. As a member of the upcoming generation, I’m excited for the bright future to come through mentorship opportunities in the industry. 

I am so immensely grateful for all the strong women who have paved the way for me to pursue such huge opportunities, both inside and outside of the industry. Strong women mentors have shaped me and my life, from the women at the Emma Bowen Fellowship, to my female media and journalism professors, and especially to my female journalism bosses and coworkers. I am excited for the next chapters of my life as I am able to cultivate other mentorship relationships through the Alliance for Women in Media.

I would never know the meaning of a strong woman or of a strong mentor if it wasn’t for my mom, whom I would have never dreamed of being here without. I am hopeful every day that I will one day inspire and nurture someone in the same way she has nurtured me.

While we continue to celebrate women in media and how far we’ve come, I hope we also recognize how far we still need to go. Growing up in Kentucky, I didn’t have many women surrounding me who looked like me. To this day, I have still yet to meet a Hispanic woman in journalism. I am so grateful that this shy Hispanic girl from Kentucky is being recognized and I won’t stop fighting until we all have a seat at the table. Our fight isn’t over.

I hope we all fight together to bring a strong community of women in media to every part of the world.

Helena Arjona is a recipient of the 2023 Google News Initiative Student Fellowship. She is a Broadcast Journalism and Multimedia student at the University of Kentucky, and we look forward to seeing how she continues to shape the world of media in the future.