Alliance for Women in Media to Honor Seven Female Leaders at Gracies Leadership Awards

October 4, 2022 (New York) – The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) is pleased to announce the seven honorees for the Gracies Leadership Awards on Monday, November 14, 2022, at Tribeca 360 in New York, New York. Google News Initiative is a presenting sponsor of the awards.

The annual event provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the significant impact women have made in the media industry, while also spurring to action and emboldening female leaders in attendance. 

The list of this year’s honorees include the following:

• Nancy Daniels, Chief of Content, TNets, Discovery, Animal Planet, & Science Channel
• Marie Donoghue, Vice President, Global Sports Video, Amazon
• Kim Godwin, President, ABC News
• Wendy Goldberg, Chief Communications Officer, iHeartMedia, Inc.
• Chesley Maddox-Dorsey, Chief Executive Officer, American Urban Radio Networks
• Debra OConnell, President, Networks, Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution
• Dawn Porter, Founder, Trilogy Films

AWM previously announced Soledad O’Brien award-winning journalist, CEO of Soledad O’Brien Productions, philanthropist, and author, as the keynote presenter. The organization also announced investing in the next generation of women in media through partnerships with Google News Initiative and Mattel creating two unique fellowship programs for students pursuing a career in either journalism or media.

“It is an exceptional honor to recognize and celebrate this strong lineup and powerhouse of women leaders in our industry,” said Becky Brooks, President, Alliance for Women in Media. “Soledad O’Brien as our keynote speaker will undoubtedly create an unforgettable event for everyone in attendance,” added Brooks.

Special thanks to sponsors of the Gracies Leadership Awards including Google News Initiative as a presenting sponsor, ABC News, American Urban Radio Network, Clear Channel Outdoor, Disney Media & Entertainment, Hallmark Media, Katz Media Group, Mattel, and NCTA – The Internet & Television Association. For sponsorship or advertising information about the Gracies Leadership Awards, or any other AWM/F opportunity, please contact Becky Brooks.

---

About the Alliance for Women in Media (AWM): The Alliance for Women in Media connects, recognizes, and inspires women across the media industry. AWM is a diverse community – whether type of media, job, or global location – 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 and entertainment. 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.

Media Contact:
Becky Brooks
Becky.Brooks@allwomeninmedia.org
859.226.4240

Gracie Awards Call for Entries Opening Soon

The 48^th Annual Gracie Awards call for entries will be opening soon and everyone is looking forward to seeing the extraordinary content that will be submitted! The Gracie Awards recognizes exceptional content at the national, local, public, and student levels throughout radio, television, and digital media. It is a prestigious award that celebrates the work done by, for and about women.

Deborah Horne, the 2022 recipient of the On-Air Talent [TV – Local] Gracie Award, had this to say about what winning a Gracie meant to her, “For me, because it is coming at this time in my career, it has meant that all of these years of doing this job that I love, that I was born to do, I’ve made a difference in a way that I did not anticipate.”

Ms. Horne went on to say, “To be in a position where women are being recognized for the work we have been doing, that alone makes this a very special day and an incredibly special award.”

---

The Call for Entries for the 48^th Annual Gracie Awards will be opening on Thursday, October 13, 2022.  Entry eligibility air dates are January 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022. If you have any questions about entering, please contact gracies@allwomeninmedia.org.

Soledad O’Brien to Keynote Gracies Leadership Awards, presented by Alliance for Women in Media

Valerie K. Blackburn to receive AWM Legacy Leadership Award at event

September 19, 2022 (New York) – The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) is pleased to announce that Soledad O’Brien – award-winning journalist, CEO of Soledad O’Brien Productions, philanthropist, and author – will keynote the Gracies Leadership Awards on Monday, November 14, 2022, at Tribeca 360 in New York, New York. At the awards event, AWM will present its Legacy Leadership Award to Valerie K. Blackburn, a longtime radio executive, industry leader as well as active and committed supporter of AWM. Google News Initiative is a presenting sponsor for this key education and recognition celebration.

The annual event provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the significant impact women have made in the media industry, while also spurring to action and emboldening female leaders in attendance.  The list of this year’s honorees will be announced soon.

“The Alliance for Women in Media’s commitment to shining a light on the impressive work of women in our industry and how they cover them in support and celebrate their talent makes me all the more honored and delighted to serve as keynote,” said O’Brien.

O’Brien has been a mainstay in the world of media for several decades. She currently anchors and produces Hearst TV political program “Matter of Fact with Soledad O’Brien” and is a correspondent for HBO Real Sports.  O’Brien’s history in the industry includes the anchor chair on CNN, MSNBC, and NBC, as well as reporting for Fox, A&E, Oxygen, Nat Geo, the PBS Newshour, and many others.

“The Alliance for Women in Media is proud to recognize women for their exceptional achievements,” said Becky Brooks, president, AWM. “It is our honor to have Soledad O’Brien as keynote and Valerie Blackburn as the AWM Legacy Leadership recipient, both undoubtedly trailblazers in the world of media leaving a legacy for all women in media to follow.”

Blackburn said, “This is an exceptional honor, and I am incredibly appreciative to be recognized among this alliance of women I admire and respect, who continue to educate and connect those of us in media.”

Tickets are available today including a special student rate for undergraduate students with proof of enrollment. Students may also apply for a sponsored tickets made available through the Google News Initiative and Mattel Fellowships. For more information on the Fellowships and to reserve your seat, visit https://allwomeninmedia.org/events/gracies-leadership-award/.

Special thanks to sponsors of the Gracies Leadership Awards including Google News Initiative as a presenting sponsor, ABC News, Clear Channel Outdoor, Katz Media Group, Mattel and NCTA – The Internet & Television Association. For sponsorship or advertising information about the Gracies Leadership Awards, or any other AWM/F opportunity, please contact Becky Brooks.

---

About the Alliance for Women in Media (AWM): The Alliance for Women in Media connects, recognizes, and inspires women across the media industry. AWM is a diverse community – whether type of media, job, or global location – 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 and entertainment. 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.

Media Contact:
Becky Brooks
Becky.Brooks@allwomeninmedia.org
859.226.4240

THE ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETES 47th ANNUAL GRACIES LUNCHEON

ESPN SportsCenter Anchor Hannah Storm Hosted and Curb Recording Artist Hannah Ellis Performed 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 22, 2022 (New York City) – The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) presented the 47^th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon at Cipriani 42^nd Street in New York City on June 22. Host Hannah Storm, anchor of ESPN SportsCenter, led the program alongside presenters Paul “Cubby” Bryant, Co-Host 106.7 LiteFM Morning Show with Christine Nagy; Linsey Davis, ABC News Live Prime Anchor, Weekend “World News Tonight” Anchor, and ABC News Correspondent; Larry O’Connor, Host, O’Connor & Company on WMAL; Kate Snow, NBC Nightly News Sunday, AnchorandNBC News Senior National Correspondent; and Shelley Wade, Afternoon Host, New York City’s 94.7 The Block and podcast host All the Rage with Shelley Wade. 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 executive vice president of The Weiss Agency Heather Cohen opened the Luncheon by acknowledging local radio, television, and student awards is the heart of the Gracies and how happy we are to be together again.
• Hannah Storm, anchor of ESPN SportsCenter and six-time Gracie winner, hosted the awards. When presenting the awards for outstanding work in Local Market Radio, Storm said, “As we all know, the connection to our local communities happens through local television and radio. Breaking news, keeping us informed, uplifting moments, and understanding how we are all interconnected happens with those of you in this room.”
• Curb Recording artist and singer/songwriter Hannah Ellis performed “Us” along with her soon-to-be-released single “Country Can.”  Ellis said, “It’s such honor to perform at the Gracie Awards this year. There is something so special about being here and celebrating accomplished and talented women!’
• Presenter Kate Snow, NBC Nightly News Sunday, AnchorandNBC News Senior National Correspondent and 2022 Gracies Award recipient for Outstanding News Feature Series, discussed the importance of fact-checking, vetting and research, noting that right now is a significant moment for journalism.
• Presenter Larry O’Connor, Host, O’Connor & Company on WMAL said, “I have always, and will always, work on a team led by women.”
• Presenter Linsey Davis, ABC News Live Prime Anchor, Weekend “World News Tonight” Anchor, and ABC News Correspondent spoke on the benefits of being a mentor and finding a mentor. “Over the process of me being a mentor, she has helped me.” She said before presenting an award to one of her own mentees.
• Presenter Paul “Cubby” Bryant, Co-Host 106.7 LiteFM Morning Show with Christine Nagy, said, “I am very excited to present today especially to my morning show partner. Everyone who listens knows the Gracie-worthy content comes from her!”
• Presenter Shelley Wade, Afternoon Host, New York City’s 94.7 The Block and podcast host All the Rage with Shelley Wade, said “I’m honored to be here and am a firm believer in women supporting other women. Thank you all for having me involved.  

The National Gracie Award honorees were recognized at the Gracies Gala, May 24, at The Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills. Again, a full list of recipients may be found on the Alliance for Women in Media website.

Photos and clips from the 47^th Annual Gracies Luncheon may be viewed at the following link: https://dam.gettyimages.com/event/gracie-awards-luncheon

About the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation and The Gracie Awards – The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (formerly known as The Foundation of American Women in Radio & Television) supports and promotes educational programs, and scholarships to benefit the media, the public, and allied fields. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has created partnerships and joint initiatives with many organizations that are philosophically aligned with the mission of the Foundation. In addition to giving $20,000 a year in scholarships to deserving female students, the Foundation also produces nationally acclaimed recognition programs, including the Gracie Awards that exemplary honor programming created by, for and about women.

For more information about The Alliance for Women in Media, please visit: allwomeninmedia.org and follow on Twitter, Instagram (@AllWomeninMedia) (#TheGracies), and Facebook.

Sponsors of The Gracies Luncheon include Audacy, Beasley Media Group, Cox Media Group, ESPN, Graham Media Group, Gray Media, iHeartMedia, Katz Media Group, NBCUniversal News Group, NCTA – The Internet & Television Association, Hofstra University, Point-To-Point, TEGNA, Townsquare Media, WABC, and WideOrbit.

###

Media Contact: Becky Brooks 859.226.4240 and becky.brooks@allwomeninmedia.org

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES ESPN’s HANNAH STORM AS HOST FOR 47TH ANNUAL GRACIES LUNCHEON

Musical Talent, Curb Recording Artist, Hannah Ellis to Perform
on June 22 at Cipriani 42^nd Street

June 16, 2022 (New York, N.Y.) – The leadership of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) announces that Hannah Storm, ESPN SportsCenter Anchor will host the 47^th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon set for June 22 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.

“Throughout this past year we have seen a number of remarkable projects by and about inspirational women and Hannah Storm will serve as the ideal host to recognize their work,” said Heather Cohen, Chair, Alliance for Women in Media Foundation. “We are honored to shine a spotlight on these women, whose stories have driven cultural awareness, offered entertainment that has made us laugh, cry, and everything in between. We are delighted to return to an in-person format so that we can properly celebrate together,” added Becky Brooks, President, Alliance for Women in Media Foundation.

In addition to serving as SportsCenter Anchor, Storm is a five-time Gracie winner herself. She is an award-winning journalist, a pioneer in the field of sports broadcasting for women, founder of Brainstormin’ Productions, President of Hannah Storm Foundation who funds surgeries for children suffering with vascular anomalies and a published author. In addition to anchoring various editions of SportsCenter, Storm has co-hosted many of the network’s marquee events including: Wimbledon, the U.S. Open, the NBA Finals, the New York Marathon, Veteran’s Day, the Super Bowl, the NCAA College Football Playoff National Championship and the Rose Parade on ABC. Storm became the first woman in American television history to solo host a broadcast network’s sports series when she hosted NBC’s Major League Baseball coverage, including three World Series. Since 2018, Storm and Andrea Kremer have called Thursday night NFL games for Amazon Prime.

“It’s an honor to host the Gracies and to be among the most inspiring, empowering and talented women in our business,” said Storm. 

Performing at the Luncheon will be singer-songwriter, Curb Recording Artist, Hannah Ellis. Ellis is a mix of favorite flannel, sparkling pink wine and welcome. Whether pouring from a car radio or your phone, the act named to Rolling Stone Country’s “Artist To Watch” list reminds you big leaps often come as a series of small steps when no one is looking. She has since written songs recorded by artists, and been featured as a vocalist on songs, spanning multiple genres, including: Russell Dickerson, Carly Pearce, FOR KING + COUNTRY, Emily Weisband, Cassadee Pope, Filmore, and Sidewalk Prophets who also made her Grand Ole Opry debut. 

Presenters at the Gracie Awards Luncheon will include Paul “Cubby” Bryant, Co-Host 106.7 LiteFM Morning Show with Christine Nagy; Linsey Davis, ABC News Live Prime Anchor, Weekend “World News Tonight” Anchor, and ABC News Correspondent; Larry O’Connor, Host, O’Connor & Company on WMAL; Kate Snow, NBC Nightly News Sunday, AnchorandNBC News Senior National Correspondent; and Shelley Wade, Afternoon Host, New York City’s 94.7 The Block and podcast host All the Rage with Shelley Wade.

The National Gracie Award honorees were recognized at the Gracies Gala, May 24, 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 2022 Gracies Luncheon or to secure tickets, please visit HERE.

About the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation and The Gracie Awards – The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (formerly known as The Foundation of American Women in Radio & Television) supports and promotes educational programs, and scholarships to benefit the media, the public, and allied fields. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has created partnerships and joint initiatives with many organizations that are philosophically aligned with the mission of the Foundation. In addition to giving $20,000 a year in scholarships to deserving female students, the Foundation also produces nationally acclaimed recognition programs, including the Gracie Awards that exemplary honor programming created by, for and about women.

For more information about The Alliance for Women in Media, please visit: allwomeninmedia.org and follow on Twitter, Instagram (@AllWomeninMedia) (#TheGracies), and Facebook.

Sponsors of The Gracies Luncheon include Audacy, Beasley Media Group, Cox Media Group, ESPN, Graham Media Group, Gray Media, iHeartMedia, Katz Media Group, NBCUniversal News Group, NCTA – The Internet & Television Association, Hofstra University, Point-To-Point, TEGNA, Townsquare Media, WABC, WideOrbit

###

Media Contact: Becky Brooks 859.226.4240 and becky.brooks@allwomeninmedia.org

AVA DUVERNAY, JILLIAN MERCADO, TAMRON HALL AND POSE RECEIVE TOP HONORS AT THE 47TH ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS

Gala Hosted by Holly Robinson Peete featured Performances by Christina Perri and Celebrated Women in Media and Entertainment

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

CLIPS: CLICK HERE *Credit: Courtesy of Alliance for Women in Media Foundation

LOS ANGELES (May 24, 2022) – Tonight, the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation presented the 47th Annual Gracie Awards at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, CA. Hosted by Holly Robinson Peete, the awards recognized exemplary programming created by women, for women and about women in all facets of media and entertainment.

 Highlights from the awards include:

• Actress Jillian Mercado received the Gracie Award for her role in the Showtime drama The L Word: Generation Q, which she dedicated to the millions of people with disabilities who want to see physical manifestations of themselves on screen. In a heartfelt speech she said, “It was hard to imagine that as a young disabled Latina, I would ever be on this stage with you all winning this award for Actress in a Breakthrough Role. My mind can’t honestly compute what is happening but I am so beyond thankful and grateful to be here.” She continued, “opportunities are far and few in between for the disabled community. We must do better.”
• Tamron Hall accepted the Gracie Award for “Best On-Air Talent.” In her acceptance speech, she spoke about the importance of seeing diverse role models on screen and noted her appreciation for trailblazers like Carole Simpson, Robin Roberts, Diane Sawyer, Barbara Walters, Linsey Davis. Hall concluded her speech by addressing the Texas elementary school tragedy, saying. “You don’t have to be a parent to understand pain, you don’t have to be a mom to understand loss, but you have to be a human to open your eyes and to see that none of us should rest easy tonight because too many tonight won’t be able to say goodnight.”
• Award-winning writer, director and producer Ava DuVernay accepted the award for “Best Family Series” for her first unscripted television series Home Sweet Home that sends powerful messages about inclusion and acceptance, and used the platform to encourage empathy after today’s Texas elementary school tragedy.“It’s so important to tell these [types of] stories because the stories that we tell each other matter. If we can tell stories that allow us to see each other in ways that we truly are our most intimate spaces, maybe we would safeguard so that there were not shootings, mass shootings. If we could just see each other, understand each other, have empathy for each other…. See each other,” DuVernay pressed, “and let’s be kind and better to each other. Storytelling can do that.”
• POSE was honored with the Grand Award for Drama. Actor Our Lady J took the stage to accept the award from Medalion Rahimi. “Thank you for tuning in to laugh with us, and not at us, as trans women continue to be the butt of jokes today,” she said. “We’re at a very volatile moment and a very sensitive and delicate moment for the trans community and for the world at whole. We know that we can go backwards in time and it’s organizations, and thanks to allyships of every person in this room tonight that hopefully we won’t go back in time.”
• Actress Nasim Pedrad accepted the award for “Best Actress in a Breakthrough Role in Comedy ” for CHAD, for which she is also creator, writer, executive producer and showrunner. She thanked the Alliance for Women in Media and her parents, saying, “Mom, I can’t think of anything less exciting for immigrant parents than to find out your daughter wants a career in improv, but you always encouraged me to follow my heart and do what makes me happy.”
• Rose McIver presented the award for “Best Actress in Leading Role Drama” to Melanie Lynskey for her character in Showtime’s acclaimed new series Yellowjackets. In her acceptance speech, Melanie joked, “It’s amazing to be 45 years old in a size 12…and be playing the sexiest, most interesting, most fun role of my entire career. I never thought it was going to get better, but it did.”

Singer-songwriter Christina Perri unveiled her baby bump for the first time on the red carpet and then performed during the show. She opened the gala with a special performance of her chart-topping single “A Thousand Years.” Later in the evening she returned to the stage to perform “Evergone,” a deeply personal song off of her new album about the loss of her daughter.

Additional winners, presenters and notable attendees included Brie and Nikki Bella, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Sheinelle Jones, Bethany Joy Lenz, Shannon Thornton, Sarah Thomas, Angelica Vale, Zach Sang, Ashley Williams, Mimi Rogers, the Mathis family, Ellen K, Deon Cole and more.

To view the complete list of winners, their work and acceptance speeches, visit allwomeninmedia.org.

Sponsors of the Gracie Awards include ABC, CBS, CNN, Crown Media, DJV, ESPN, Elvis Duran, NBC, NCTA, NPR, iHeart, HBO Max, Katz Media Group, Meruelo Media, National Geographic, Premiere Networks, Skyview, Showtime and Warner Entertainment.

# # #

About The Gracie Awards

The Gracie Awards is the largest fundraiser of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (formerly known as The Foundation of American Women in Radio & Television) which supports and promotes educational programs, and scholarships to benefit the media, the public and allied fields. In addition to giving $20,000 a year away in scholarships to deserving female students, the Foundation also produces the nationally acclaimed recognition program – the Gracie Awards which honors exemplary programming 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.

Press Contact

Sunshine Sachs

Gracies@SunshineSachs.com

HOLLY ROBINSON PEETE TO HOST 47TH ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS | CHRISTINA PERRI TO PERFORM NEW SINGLE “EVERGONE”

Awards Ceremony to take place on May 24 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel

LOS ANGELES (May 4, 2022) – The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) today announced actress Holly Robinson Peete will host the 47th Annual Gracie Awards and  multi-platinum singer-songwriter Christina Perri will give a special live performance of her brand new single, “Evergone.” The event will return in-person on Tuesday, May 24, 2022 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles, and will  honor some of the most talented women in television, radio and digital media who have demonstrated their commitment to sharing emotionally-charged, timely and compelling content that continues to further the achievements of all women in media.

“I’m thrilled to be a part of such a special day honoring the tenacity, intelligence and fierceness of my fellow women in media,” said Robinson Peete. “I attended my first Gracie Awards over 10 years ago and have been a fan of AWMF and the work they do to uplift women ever since, so being asked to come back as the host is quite the honor. I can’t wait to celebrate all of the many accomplishments in person this year.”

Since 1951, AWMF has been committed to inspiring, educating, celebrating accomplishments and expanding networks of women across all segments of media.

In the seventh consecutive year as Executive Producer, Vicangelo Bulluck will spotlight these prolific women in the industry who continue to inspire and support others, break down barriers, and lead by example in creating opportunities for future generations.

Sponsors of The Gracie Awards include Crown Media, Warner Media, CNN, NCTA – The Internet and Television Association, WWE, ESPN, Premiere Networks, Meruelo Media, Skyview, NBC Sports & News, ABC News, HBO Max, Katz Media Group, and National Geographic. Gracie Luncheon sponsors include Audacy, TEGNA, Townsquare, Graham Media, Cox Media Group, and Hofstra University.

About The Gracie Awards

The Gracie Awards is the largest fundraiser of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (formerly known as The Foundation of American Women in Radio & Television) which supports and promotes educational programs, and scholarships to benefit the media, the public and allied fields. In addition to giving $20,000 a year away in scholarships to deserving female students, the Foundation also produces the nationally acclaimed recognition program – the Gracie Awards which honors exemplary programming 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.

# # #

Press Contacts

Sunshine Sachs Morgan & Lylis

Gracies@SunshineSachs.com

47th ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS WINNERS ANNOUNCED BY THE ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION

47^th ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS WINNERS ANNOUNCED BY THE ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION

MELISSA McCARTHY, KELLY CLARKSON, ELLE FANNING, SAVANNAH GUTHRIE & HODA KOTB, ELLEN K, KAITLYN DEVER, TAMRON HALL, MAID & POSE AMONG HONOREES

Live Awards Ceremony to Take Place on May 24 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel

Local and Student Award Winners to be Honored at the Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 22 in New York City

 LOS ANGELES (April 13, 2022) – The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) announced the winners of the 47th Annual Gracie Awards which will return in-person on May 24, 2022 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles. The event will honor some of the most talented women in television, radio and digital media, including Melissa McCarthy, Kelly Clarkson, Elle Fanning, Savannah Guthrie & Hoda Kotb, Kaitlyn Dever, Tamron Hall, Ellen K, Angie Martinez, Dana Cortez and more. The ceremony will also recognize entertainment and news programming that highlighted female-driven stories and culturally relevant topics, including 48 Hours, 60 Minutes, NBC Nightly News, The New York Times Presents, Pose and Maid.

“Throughout this past year we have seen a number of remarkable projects by and about inspirational women,” said Becky Brooks, President, Alliance for Women in Media Foundation. “We are honored to shine a spotlight on these women, whose stories have driven cultural awareness, offered entertainment that has made us laugh, cry, and everything in between. This year, we will be returning to the Beverly Wilshire Hotel and are delighted to return to an in-person format so that we can properly celebrate together.”

The Gracies celebrate exemplary talent and programming created by, for and about women in radio, television, and digital medias. Honorees are selected in national, local and student markets, including both commercial and non-commercial outlets in entertainment and news.

In the seventh consecutive year as Executive Producer of the Gracie Awards Gala, Vicangelo Bulluck will spotlight these prolific women in the industry who continue to inspire and support others, break down barriers, and lead by example in creating opportunity for future generations.

Sponsors of The Gracie Awards include Crown Media, CNN, Premiere, WWE, Meruelo Media, HBO, Audacy, TEGNA, Katz Media Group and NCTA – The Cable and Telecommunications Association

The complete winners list is below. Honorees are listed in alphabetical order within each category.

The complete winners list is below. Honorees are listed in alphabetical order within each category. To view the complete list of award recipients, visit allwomeninmedia.org.

TELEVISION NATIONAL HONOREES

48 Hours: A Promise to Ahmaud (48 Hours & CBS News)

CBS News

Investigative Feature [TV – National]

48 Hours: What Happened to the Perfect Child? (48 Hours)

CBS News

Documentary- News [TV – National]

60 Minutes: Saving the Mountain Gorillas (60 Minutes)

ViacomCBS

Soft News Feature [TV – National]

Baby Roe Speaks (ABC News Prime)

ABC NEWS

Interview Feature [TV – National]

Beverly Chase (VICE on Showtime)

VICE Media (United States of America)

Showrunner Nonfiction- News [TV – National]

Custody Dispute (NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt)

NBC NEWS

News Feature Series [TV – National]

Elle Fanning (The Great)

Hulu

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

Friday Night Vibes

TBS

Special or Variety [TV – National]

Geeta Gandbhir, Samantha Knowles, Nadia Hallgren and Yoruba Richen (Black and Missing)

HBO/HBO Max

Director [TV – National]

Hind Hassan (VICE News)

VICE Media (United States of America)

Reporter/Correspondent [TV – National]

Home Sweet Home

Warner Bros. Unscripted Television & ARRAY Filmworks

Family Series [TV – National]

Honour

BritBox

Made for Television Movie [TV – National]

Jane Ferguson (PBS NewsHour)

PBS NewsHour

Reporter/Correspondent – Public Broadcast [TV – National]

Jen Flanz (The Daily Show with Trevor Noah)

Comedy Central

Showrunner Nonfiction- Latenight [TV – National]

Jillian Mercado (The L Word: Generation Q)

SHOWTIME

Actress in a Breakthrough Role- Drama [TV – National]

Kaitlyn Dever (Dopesick)

Hulu

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

The Kelly Clarkson Show

NBCUniversal Syndication Studios

Talk Show – Entertainment [TV – National]

Lana Parilla (Why Women Kill)

CBS Studios

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

Linsey Davis (ABC News)

ABC NEWS

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

Mahlet Girma (Breast Cancer Awareness:  The story of Mahlet Girma)

Voice of America

Non-English Program [TV – National]

Maid

Warner Bros. Television

Limited Series  [TV – National]

Maria Taylor (NBC Sports and Olympics)

NBC Sports and Olympics

On-Air Talent – Sports [TV – National]

Marja-Lewis Ryan (The L Word: Generation Q)

SHOWTIME

Showrunner Fiction- Drama [TV – National]

Melanie Lynskey (Yellowjackets)

SHOWTIME

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

Melissa McCarthy (Nine Perfect Strangers)

Hulu

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

Michelle King (The Good Fight)

CBS Studios/King Size Productions

Producer- Entertainment [TV – National]

Nasim Pedrad (CHAD)

TBS

Actress in a Breakthrough Role- Comedy [TV – National]

Nida Manzoor (We Are Lady Parts)

Working Title Television, which is a part of Universal International Studios

Writer Scripted- Comedy [TV – National]

On Her Turf

Peacock/NBC Olympics

Sports Program [TV – National]

Pati Jinich (La Frontera with Pati Jinich)

PBS

Producer- Documentary /Unscripted / Non-Fiction [TV-National]

Making History

ESPN (United States of America)

GRAND AWARD Sports Feature [TV – National]

Pilar Perez (En sus zapatos)

ESPN Deportes & ESPN International

Non English Individual Achievement [TV – National]

Pose

FX

GRAND AWARD Drama [TV – National]

Pose

FX

Ensemble Cast [TV – National]

Savannah Guthrie & Hoda Kotb (TODAY)

TODAY/NBC News

On-Air Talent – News [TV – National]

Stories We Tell: The Fertility Secret

MSNBC Films, Cinemation Studios, NBC News Studios

Non-Fiction Entertainment [TV – National]

Suzan-Lori Parks (Genius: Aretha)

National Geographic

Producer- Entrtainment Limited Series

Tamron Hall (TAMRON HALL SHOW)

ABC News/ Disney

On-Air Talent – Entertainment [TV – National]

The New York Times Presents: Malfunction: The Dressing Down of Janet Jackson

FX

Documentary- Entertainment [TV – National]

The Rescue of Parwana

CNN

Hard News Feature [TV – National]

Tina Lifford (Queen Sugar)

OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network

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

Tonya Simpson (ABC News)

ABC NEWS

Producer- News [TV – National]

Trafficked With Mariana Van Zeller

National Geographic

News Magazine [TV – National]

U.S. Capitol Insurrection (TODAY)

TODAY/NBC News

News Program [TV – National]

Vanessa Roth (Impact with Gal Gadot)

National Geographic

Writer Unscripted [TV – National]

We Are Lady Parts

Working Title Television, which is a part of Universal International Studios

Comedy [TV – National]

Writing Team (The Walking Dead)

AMC Networks

Writer Scripted- Drama [TV – National]

Yvette Lee Bowser (Run the World)

STARZ

Showrunner Fiction- Comedy [TV – National]

RADIO NATIONAL HONOREES

A Look Back At 1992 LA And America Since Rodney King (On Point)

WBUR

Documentary [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

ABC Audio’s Front & Center Spotlight: Carly Pearce

ABC News Radio

Special [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Alison Cook (The Doc Project)

Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC)

Producer [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

Allison Keyes (CBS News Weekend Roundup)

CBS News Radio

Weekend Host / Personality- News [ Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial ]

Cheri Preston (ABC News Radio)

ABC News Radio

Outstanding News Anchor [ Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial ]

Child Care Industry In Crisis (Karen Travers)

ABC News Radio

News Feature [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Dana Cortez (The Dana Cortez Show)

Skyview Networks

Host/Personality [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Ellen K (The Ellen K Weekend Show)

iHeartMedia

Weekend Host / Personality Entertainment [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Fall of Afghanistan

CBS News Radio

Crisis Coverage/Breaking News [Radio – National Syndicated Commercial]

Fordham Conversations – Attacks on Asian Americans and The Search for Solidarity

WFUV-FM

Public Affairs [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

Jen Horn, Victoria Keelan, Jai Kershner (The DJV Show)

Doug Stephan Networks; The DJV Show

Co-host- Talk Radio [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Medha Gandhi (Elvis Duran and the Morning Show)

Premiere Networks/iHeartMedia

Co-host [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Melissa Harris-Perry (The Takeaway)

NYPR / WNYC Studios

Interview Feature [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

NPR coverage of India’s farmer protests

NPR

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

Rerouting: defying the given path, paving a new one – North Korean female defectors’ journey

Radio Free Asia Korean Service

Non-English Program [Radio – National]

Rund Abdelfatah (Throughline)

NPR

Reporter / Correspondent / Host [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

Smith Sisters Live

SiriusXM

Talk Show [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

The Julia Show

Audacy

Interview Feature [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

The World At Six (Margaret Evans)

Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC)

News Feature [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

Women in China

NPR

Series [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

DIGITAL MEDIA NATIONAL HONOREES

Amber Ferguson (Interabled Caregiving)

The Washington Post

Online Producer- Investigative [DM – National]

Because of Anita

Pineapple Street Studios and The Meteor

Podcast – Educational [DM – National]

Believe Her

Lemonada Media

Podcast – Investigative [ DM – National ]

Brooke Siffrinn and Aricia Skidmore-Williams (Even the Rich)

Wondery

Podcast Co-host/Ensemble [DM – National]

Clarissa Ward (Tug of War)

CNN Audio

Podcast Host – News [ DM – National ]

George Floyd: A Community Leader (Univision News Digital (online))

Univision News Digital

Website – News [DM – National]

History Refocused: Claudette Colvin

CNN Digital

Original Online Programming – Standalone Video [DM – National]

In Giro Con Fra

Lemonada Media

Non-English Program- Podcast [DM – National]

Inaccessible Cities

AJ Contrast, Al Jazeera Digital

Website – Information/Entertainment [DM – National]

Jemele Hill is Unbothered

Spotify

Podcast – Lifestyle Interview [DM – National]

Kim Cornett (NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt: Kids Edition)

NBC News

Online Producer- News [DM – National]

Ladies First: Black Women & Sex in Hip-Hop

MTV Entertainment Group, Paramount

Original Online Programming –  Entertainment [DM – National]

Meredith Goldstein (Love Letters)

Boston Globe

Podcast Host – Entertainment [ DM – National ]

NPR: Teaching in the Pandemic

NPR

Blog [DM – National]

Patty Steele (The Deep 6)

Elvis Duran Group

Podcast – Lifestyle Limited Series [DM – National]

Perseverance with Abby, Lola and Diana Trujillo

Sesame Workshop

Non-English Program- Family Program [DM – National]

Savannah Sellers (NBC News Now)

NBC News Now

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

SEEHER Multiplicity

Dotdash Meredith

Original Online Programming – Video Series [DM – National]

Stéphanie Fillion

La Presse/Radio-Canada (special contribution)

Non-English Individual Achievement [DM – National]

Stephanie McMahon (HEAVEN)

WWE

Online Producer- Sports [DM – National]

Suzie Liu (ABC News: The Dropout)

ABC NEWS

Podcast Producer  [DM – National]

Teens in America

YR Media, Washington Post

Original Online Programming – Standalone Audio [DM – National]

The Lead

Wondery & The Athletic

Podcast – Sports [DM – National]

The Turning: The Sisters Who Left

Rococo Punch & iHeartRadio

Podcast – Entertainment [DM – National]

Unlocking My Past & Finding A Connection to Slavery

NBC News Digital

Original Online Programming – News [DM – National]

We Can Do Hard Things with Glennon Doyle

Cadence13

Podcast – Lifestyle [DM – National]

TELEVISION LOCAL HONOREES

Claudia Orozco (Migración durante la pandemia)

Noticias Univisión San Diego

Non English Individual Achievement [TV – Local]

Deborah Horne (KIRO 7)

Cox Media Group

On-Air Talent [TV – Local]

Dress shopping in Mom’s final days (KBTX News 3 at Ten)

KBTX

Soft News Feature [TV – Local]

Juneteenth:  1865-2021

KHOU 11

Documentary [TV – Local]

KSAT Explains: What You Need To Know About Protective Orders In Bexar County

KSAT

News Magazine [TV – Local]

Mary Fecteau (The 86th Annual Anisfield-Wolf Book Awards)

Ideastream Public Media

Director [TV – Local]

RACE LISTEN. LEARN. LIVE.

KSDK

News Program [TV – Local]

Senator Lauren Book, Chucha Barber, Claire VanSusteren, Michele Watson (Journey Home)

Chucha Barber Productions, Inc.

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

Susan Moses (The Year of the Tiger Ladies)

WKYC / TEGNA

Sports Feature [TV – Local]

The Next 400: Digging Into The Tangled Roots of Black Hair Culture

WOIO-TV

News Magazine- Special [TV – Local]

The Power of Healing: Address the Mess

WKYC / TEGNA

Hard News Feature [TV – Local]

Bailed Out to Abuse (WAVE News)

Gray Television, Inc.

Investigative Feature [TV – Local]

RADIO LOCAL HONOREES

A Love Supreme

WUNC – North Carolina Public Radio

Special [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

Allison Sherry (‘I’ll Fight For The Rest Of My Life’: Elijah McClain’s Mother Reflects On Two Years Since His Death)

Colorado Public Radio

Interview Feature [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

Amanda Orlando (The WARM Morning Show with Jim and Amanda)

Cumulus Media

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

Andie Summers (The Andie Summers Show)

Beasley Media Group (United States of America)

Host Morning Drive- Major Market [Radio – Local]

Angelica Vale (Cali 93.9 Mornings)

Cali 93.9, KLLI-FM,  Meruelo Media – Los Angeles

Non-English Individual Achievement [Radio – Local]

Angie Martinez (The Angie Martinez Show)

iHeartRadio

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

Angie Perrin (Press Play with Madeleine Brand)

KCRW

Producer [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

CBC Cree Radio: Winschgaoug and Eyou Dipajimoon

Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC)

Non-English Program [Radio – Local]

Christine Nagy (Cubby and Christine in the Morning)

iHeartMedia (WLTW)

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

Figgy Pudding Choir

KIRO Newsradio

Soft News Feature [Radio – Local]

Gold Star Moms

KIRO Newsradio

Public Service Announcement [Radio – Local]

Heather Hunter (O’Connor and Company)

WMAL

Producer- Talk [Radio – Local]

I Regret Becoming a Parent (Audacious)

Connecticut Public

Talk Show [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

I’m Listening (KCBS Radio)

KCBS Radio (Audacy)

Public Affairs [Radio – Local]

International Women’s Day  (Valentine in the Morning)

iHeartMedia

Special [Radio – Local]

Janet Saidi (The Check-In)

KBIA

Host/Anchor [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

Jeana Gondek (Jacksonville’s Morning News)

Cox Media Group

Outstanding News Anchor [ Radio – Local]

Judi Franco (Dennis & Judi)

Townsquare Media

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

Kelly Dzanaj (Kelly on 100.7 Star)

Audacy Pittsburgh

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

Lori Barghini & Julia Cobbs (The Lori & Julia Show)

myTalk 107.1 – KTMY-FM

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

Magic 106.7’s “Exceptional Women” with Kyra Sedgwick

Audacy Boston

Interview Feature- Entertainment [Radio – Local]

MalaniKai (Word on the Street (95.5 WSB / WSB-AM WSBB-FM / Atlanta, GA))

Cox Media Group

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

Many Troops Are Leaving The Military Prematurely Due To Sexual Harassment, Assault

Texas Public Radio

Hard News Feature- Non-Commercial [Radio – Local]

Mary Walter (Mary Walter WMAL Mornings On The Mall)

Cumulus Media

Interview Feature- News [Radio – Local]

Melissa “Mo” Wagner (“The Mo & StyckMan Show”)

Audacy – WUSY-FM Chattanoonga, TN

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

Michelle Durham (Family fights for teens in toxic relationships)

KYW Newsradio – Audacy

Hard News Feature [Radio – Local]

Rural Healthcare: The Other Texas Drought

Texas Tech Public Media, The Texas Newsroom, Texas Public Radio, PBS Frontline, American Public Media Research Lab

Documentary [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

Saraya Wintersmith (Like Other Arab Americans in Politics, Boston’s Essaibi George Faces Questions About Her Identity)

GBH News

Portrait/Biography [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

Sharon Barnes-Waters (1010 WINS: The Black Experience)

1010 WINS

Producer- News [Radio – Local]

The Rita Cosby Show

WABC Radio

Talk Show [Radio – Local]

Tracy Dixon (KYGO Morning Show)

Bonneville International

Host – Morning Drive – Medium Market [Radio – Local]

Ways & Means Presents: The Arc of Justice – From Here to Equality

Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University / North Carolina Public Radio – WUNC

Series [Radio Non – Commercial Local]

TELEVISION STUDENT HONOREES

A Horse From Heaven

The University of Maryland

Soft News Feature [TV – Student]

Ashley Chase, Lauren Kraudy, Emma Evans, Alexandria Sorensen (Universe Live)

Brigham Young University School of Communications – Universe Live

Producer [TV – Student]

Carly Wasserlein (Universe Live)

Brigham Young University School of Communications – Universe Live

Director [TV – Student]

Church members respond to urging from the First Presidency to get the COVID-19 vaccine (Universe Live)

Brigham Young University School of Communications – Universe Live

Hard News Feature [TV – Student]

Harlee Hunsaker (Universe Live)

Brigham Young University School of Communications – Universe Live

On-Air Talent [TV – Student]

RADIO STUDENT HONOREES

Crystal Lucio-Bermudez (WRHU – Abortion Rights Feature)

WRHU FM Radio Hofstra University

Host/Personality [Radio – Student]

Emily White Music Biz Executive Inspires Next Generation of Female Industry Leaders (Music Biz Buzz )

WRHU FM Radio Hofstra University

Talk Show [Radio – Student]

Nassibah Beddredine (Youth Advocate For Inclusive Sex Education)

WUNC – North Carolina Public Radio

Interview Feature [Radio – Student]

Rachel Schnelle (Lavender a Tough Crop for ‘Muggy’ Missouri, But This Couple is Giving it a Go.)

KBIA

News Feature [Radio – Student]

The Rowan Report Election Night Special

Rowan Radio 89.7 WGLS-FM

Public Affairs [Radio – Student]

Victoria Bell (Backyard Players & Friends)

WRHU FM Radio Hofstra University

Producer [Radio – Student]

DIGITAL MEDIA STUDENT HONOREES

Amudalat Ajasa (Inside America’s last whites-only church)

Hofstra University

Online Video Host or Correspondent [DM – Student]

ESCAPE TO JUSTICE

Global Girl Media

Original Online Programming [DM – Student]

Linda T. Kennedy (Of A Certain Age)

Harvard University Extension School

Podcast Host [DM – Student]

Looking For Violet

Fordham University

Podcast Entertainment [DM – Student]

Sex Work After Gilgo | Getting to the Root

Hofstra University

Podcast Investigative [DM – Student]

---

About The Gracie Awards

The Gracie Awards is the largest fundraiser of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (formerly known as The Foundation of American Women in Radio & Television) which supports and promotes educational programs, and scholarships to benefit the media, the public and allied fields. In addition to giving $20,000 a year away in scholarships to deserving female students, the Foundation also produces the nationally acclaimed recognition program – the Gracie Awards which honors exemplary programming 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.

# # #

Press Contacts

Sunshine Sachs Morgan & Lylis

Gracies@SunshineSachs.com

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation Presented the 42nd Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon

NEW YORK, June 28, 2017 – Yesterday the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation handed out the 42^nd Annual Gracie Awards at a luncheon at Cipriani on 42^nd in New York City. Host Dylan Dreyer led the program alongside presenters Bevy Smith from Bravo’s “Fashion Queens,” Larry Mullins from CBS Radio’s 1010 WINS, Christine Nagy from The Bob and Christine Show, and Erin Moriarty, CBS “48 Hours” correspondent. The Gracie Awards were presented to honorees which were previously announced (view full list of honorees here) in recognition of individual achievement and outstanding programming by, for and about women in local and student TV, radio and interactive media.

Lifetime Achievement Honoree Jane Pauley was presented her award by close friend and colleague Martha Teichner.

Highlights from the show include:

• AWM/F Board Chair and Chief Product Officer, Advertising Management Systems, for Imagine Communications Sarah Foss opened the Luncheon by sharing how she went into the media industry because of her admiration for Lifetime Achievement Honoree Jane Pauley. She then described the Luncheon as, “truly the heart of the Gracies—it’s where we celebrate each of you telling stories that impact each of us in our communities and schools.  We remember how we got started with celebrating students as they enter our industry.  We celebrate why we got into media. Why we are STILL in media.”
• Foss went on to say, “This year, the events across the globe—and how media covered them—remind us that we live in an ever-changing world where attention spans run low, and quick-fire news cycles and tweets can compromise facts and events.  We’ve been harshly reminded that there is still so much work to be done in the fight for women’s rights, religious freedom, gender and race equality.”
• Host Dylan Dreyer, weather anchor of NBC News’ “Weekend TODAY” and regular co-host for TODAY, opened the awards with a story of how she grew up with all brothers and wasn’t intimidated being one of two women in her meteorology program.
• After sharing her inspiring and personal story of beating breast cancer, songwriter Kara DioGuardi shared how she wrote the song Sober with Pink. She then performed the song as well as the Kelly Clarkson collaboration Walk Away.
• Award-winning “CBS Sunday Morning” journalist Martha Teichner introduced Lifetime Achievement Award honoree Jane Pauley, relating how the two met while working on a local television station in Chicago in their early careers.  She shared how Pauley “had to endure a hostile environment with no mentors, no one to rely on or ask questions to. No one made her feel at home.”
• “Jane conducted herself in Chicago with tremendous dignity and developed a kind of respect among her peers that she has developed among her colleagues for her entire career,” said Teichner.
• Lifetime Achievement Honoree Jane Pauley kept the full crowd laughing, sharing stories on aging, self-reflection and marriage. She said of her marriage to famed cartoonist Gary Trudeau, “I think the advantage to growing old together is that neither of us can see in hi-definition.”
• When reflecting on her career, Pauley said, “I think one of the secrets to my success has been my awareness of pathetic moments that I can share with people. There’s a certain authenticity to being able to admit the things I can admit.” She continued, “I hope you find great inspiration from a woman who started the best new job of her career at the age of 65.”
• Pauley went on to say, “From the perspective of a woman who has been in the television business since the VHS was considered new technology, go ahead and do it. Give yourself a break. There is a thing you do better than everyone else and you’re struggling as I speak to think of yours. I went decades trying to find a single strength. If you can’t think of that thing, you’ll turn 50 someday and it’ll come to you.”
• “48 Hours” correspondent Erin Moriarty presented the non-commercial radio awards, stating, “What I love about radio is that you have to create images with your voice and your words. Our words and what we do truly matter.”
• When closing the show, host Dylan Dreyer asked the crowd to, “not let today slip through your fingers. Take the energy of this event and this room and use it to continue to impact the world for good. Now, more than ever, we must stand as a force to report, entertain and educate in a way that is inclusive of all, no matter the gender, race, age, whatever!”

Rachel Platten to Receive Inaugural Gracies Impact Award and Set to Perform at the 42nd Annual Gracie Awards

MANDY MOORE, RACHEL BLOOM, CHRISSY METZ, WENDI MCLENDON-COVEY, JILLIAN ROSE REED, LISA LING ANNOUNCED AS ATTENDEES AT THE 42^nd ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS GALA

DEBBIE ALLEN TO RECEIVE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD, PRESENTED BY JESSE WILLIAMS

LOS ANGELES, CA (MAY 25, 2017) –International popstar Rachel Platten will be honored with the first-ever Gracies Impact Award, which is presented to an artist who has made a positive impact on society through their music, the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) announced today.  Her award will accompany a performance at the 42^nd Annual Gracie Awards Gala with her chart-topping hits, “Fight Song” and “Stand By You”.  The event, hosted by The Real’s Jeannie Mai, will take place on June 6 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif. The Gracie Awards honor outstanding individual achievement and programming by, for and about women.

“I’m truly humbled to accept this award and stand alongside such an esteemed group of women,” said Platten. “The Alliance of Women in Media has created a legacy of recognizing outstanding women in the industry, and through my music I hope to reflect their same goals and continue to make a lasting impact.”

Best known for her emotionally empowering anthems, Rachel Platten first made the transition into a professional singing career after performing in college. The vibrant musician broke through in 2015 with her uplifting pop hit “Fight Song.” The multi-platinum selling single topped countless radio and iTunes charts around the globe before being succeeded by her platinum Billboard Hot 100 hit, “Stand by You.” Rachel’s Gold-certified, major label debut album “Wildfire” was released by Columbia Records in 2016. The singer has won several awards, including the 2016 Daytime EMMY Awards for Outstanding Musical Performance in a Talk Show/Morning Program for her television debut performance of “Fight Song” on Good Morning America. Rachel is currently in the studio putting the finishing touches on her new album, expected later this year.

“Rachel’s anthemic songs of empowerment and perseverance make her the perfect fit to perform at this year’s Gracie Awards,” said Sarah Foss, Chief Product Officer, Advertising Management Systems at Imagine Communications and Chair of the AWM/F Board of Directors. “The meaning behind her lyrics serves as a powerful reminder that we need to uplift and empower each other, and rings true to why we celebrate women at the Gracies each year.”

Additional attendees of the annual fete include Mandy Moore, Rachel Bloom, Chrissy Metz, Jesse Williams, Wendi McLendon-Covey, Lisa Ling, Natalie Morales, Jillian Rose Reed, Lynn Whitfield, Rehema Ellis, Susan Kelechi Watson, and more. They will join previously announced honoree Debbie Allen, recipient of this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by her Grey’s Anatomy co-star Jesse Williams and her daughter Vivian Nixon.

Elena of Avalor & Awkward star Jillian Rose Reed will serve as the social media ambassador for the 42^nd Annual Gracie Awards. To follow along, follow #TheGracies and tune in on Twitter (@AllWomeninMedia; @JillianRoseReed) and Instagram (@AllWomeninMedia; @JillianRoseReed) to get a behind-the-scenes look leading up to and throughout the show.

Platten’s performance at the Gracie Awards is presented by Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI). Gracie Awards Gala tickets are available for purchase at the AWMF’s website, allwomeninmedia.org/gracies. National Gracie winners in television, radio and interactive media are recognized at the Gracies Gala in June while top local media and student winners are recognized at The Gracie Awards Luncheon, June 27, 2017 at Cipriani 42^nd Street in New York City.

 

To apply for media credentials, click here.

ABOUT THE ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (formerly known as The Foundation of American Women in Radio & Television) supports and promotes educational programs, charitable activities, and scholarships to benefit the public, the electronic media and allied fields. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has created partnerships and joint initiatives with the Emma Bowen Foundation, NCTA- The Internet and Television Association, NAB and other organizations that are philosophically aligned with the mission of the Foundation. In addition to giving almost $20,000 a year away in scholarships to deserving female students, the Foundation also produces nationally acclaimed recognition programs, including the Gracie Awards, a gala that honors exemplary programming created by, for and about women. The 42^nd Gracie Awards are sponsored by the Ford Motor Company, Crown Media, CBS, 20^th Century Fox Television, CNN, Katz Media Group, NBCUniversal, NCTA- The Internet and Television Association, National Geographic, NPR, Sinclair Broadcast Group, TBS, Discovery, Disney|ABC, HBO, OWN/Lionsgate, PBS/Virginia Film Office, American Public Media, Cumulus and vCreative, For more information about The Alliance for Women in Media please visit allwomeninmedia.org and follow them on Twitter (@AllWomeninMedia #TheGracies) and Facebook .

 

###

 

Press Contacts:

Sunshine Sachs
Michael Samonte | Alyssa Furnari | Charli Wood
Gracies@SunshineSachs.com
(323) 822-9300