Amy Burton

October, 2024

Blog, Gracies Leadership Award, Press Release

NBC News’ Andrea Mitchell to Receive Gracies Icon Award at the 2024 Gracies Leadership Awards

The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) is proud to announce that Andrea Mitchell, NBC News Chief Foreign Affairs Correspondent and Chief Washington Correspondent, will be honored with the prestigious Gracies Icon Award at the 2024 Gracies Leadership Awards. The awards luncheon will take place on Tuesday, November 19, at Tribeca 360° in New York City.

“Andrea Mitchell has been a trailblazer in journalism, breaking barriers and setting a remarkable example for women in media for decades. In an era when trustworthy reporting is more critical than ever, her ability to navigate the complexities of global affairs makes her a true icon,” said Becky Brooks, President of AWM. “We are proud to honor Andrea with the Gracies Icon Award, celebrating a legacy that has inspired countless women in media to raise their voices and pursue their passions with determination and courage.”

Mitchell’s distinguished career includes extensive reporting on presidential campaigns, international conflicts, and national security issues, making her one of the most respected figures in journalism today. Mitchell, who also hosts Andrea Mitchell Reports on MSNBC, has covered major global events, including the Reagan/Gorbachev arms control summits, the Israel-Hamas conflict, the war in Ukraine, and negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program. Her work spans assignments in some of the world’s most challenging regions, including Iraq, Afghanistan, North Korea, and Cuba.

In addition to her reporting, Mitchell has received numerous accolades throughout her career. She is the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 40th Annual News & Documentary Emmy Awards, the International Radio and Television Society Foundation’s Giant of Broadcasting and Electronic Arts Honor, and the Freedom of the Press Award from the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, among many others. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on journalism, and her dedication to the profession has inspired countless women in media.

The Gracies Icon Award honors individuals who have made a lasting impact on the media landscape. Andrea Mitchell’s extraordinary achievements and her role as a pioneering woman in journalism make her a worthy recipient of this year’s honor.

The 2024 Gracies Leadership Awards will also celebrate previously announced honorees, including Sylvia Bugg, Sonia Coleman, Jennifer Leimgruber, Deborah Parenti, Jen Sargent, and Holly Tang. Sylvia Strobel will be recognized with the Legacy Leadership Award for her significant contributions to the industry and the Alliance for Women in Media.

Special thanks to sponsors of the Gracies Leadership Awards including, presenting sponsor, The Walt Disney Company, Audacy, Clear Channel Outdoor, Katz Media Group, KPMG, NBC Universal, NCTA – The Internet & Television Association, Premiere Networks, TPT – Twin Cities PBS, and Wondery.

For tickets and more information about the Gracies Leadership Awards, please visit allwomeninmedia.org

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.

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Media Contact:
Jenny Ditto 
859.514.3008
jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org

Amy Burton

February, 2023

Blog, Gracies Leadership Award

Megan Hatlee’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

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

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

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

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

Amy Burton

February, 2023

Blog, Gracies Leadership Award

Alex Dusky’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

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

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

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

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

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

Amy Burton

February, 2023

Blog, Gracies Leadership Award

Lisa Setyon’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

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

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

Attending the Gracies Leadership Awards reinforced that state of mind.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Amy Burton

February, 2023

Blog, Gracies Leadership Award

Phoebe Chen’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

My name is Phoebe Chen, and I’m a senior student at Boston University studying journalism and will be joining Bloomberg News as a Content Producer soon in December. I’m all about storytelling — It’s why I read, why I write and why I love hearing people’s stories. It’s why I’m pursuing a career in journalism. I will stop talking about myself here since all I did was watch, listen, and pay attention to the outstanding women I met on a wonderful afternoon at Tribeca 360.

I was honored to be selected as one of the Google News Initiative fellows to attend this year’s Gracies Leadership Award. It was an amazing opportunity to attend the award as a student, which, I’m not going to lie, was a little intimidating at first. I mean, that was a reasonable feeling for a student sitting with a group of the most influential figures in the media industry, right? But as the award started, my attention shifted to the speakers, who offered life-changing speeches that stayed in my mind for the next few days. What they have achieved in their career and for the growth of the industry are something no words could hold, yet, they were so humble and were still settling for more.

In my opinion, the Asian perspective is immensely underrepresented on the global stage, and I have witnessed how news could make a difference. The advancement of news inclusiveness is one of the main drives of my passion for news production — But before changing the world, we have to make changes from the inside. Noted from the award, according to a study spanning 20 years, “across 114 countries, women comprise only 24% of the people we read about, see, or hear from on television, radio, and in the newspapers.” Despite the disadvantage, we women did not and would not step back but only become motivated — I was touched by all the winners and speakers for their courage, perseverance, and commitment towards inclusiveness in media. The role of women in media is gaining recognition for striving for media freedom, pluralism, independence, and safety. I can never express my gratitude for these great women who paved the way for our generation.

Taking this chance, I also want to touch on what I think will be the most significant innovation in news in the next 10 years. We all know that news is always timely, and it never stops changing. However, the way the news is being reported is also changing — apparently, it is a corresponding effect of the rise of streaming services and our dependence on the Internet. Not everyone watches TV anymore, but almost everyone consumes news on their laptop or cellphone. Thus, I consider digital journalism to be one of the most important tools moving forward for creating positive change in the world and establishing an informed global citizenry. I believe that all of us in the media industry — both students and working professionals — play leading roles in this process.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to attend the award and meet all the outstanding female figures in the media industry — it was a dream come true.

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

Amy Burton

February, 2023

Blog, Gracies Leadership Award

Aria Young’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

Women are the present and future of media. I felt deeply inspired by all the pioneering women in media that spoke by the podium at the 2022 Gracies Awards. Standing on the shoulders of these women, I can see the future of media being more remarkable and innovative than ever. In my opinion, the most significant innovation in news in the next 10 years will be AI technology. I think journalists will use artificial intelligence to enhance their reporting. Through augmented reporting, journalists can utilize content generated by AI machines, such as macro data trends and phenomenons, and focus on deriving insights instead of gathering information. The journalist’s role will evolve from a one-dimensional news gatherer to news curator. Future journalists will develop better decision making and narrative creating skills because of AI reporting.

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

Amy Burton

February, 2023

Blog, Gracies Leadership Award, Video Blog

Caitlyn Moran’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

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

Amy Burton

February, 2023

Blog, Gracies Leadership Award

Laila Wilson’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

When I learned I was being recognized as a Mattel Fellow by the Alliance for Women in Media, I was ecstatic to be among such prominent women at the luncheon. On my way to the Gracies Leadership Awards, I remembered vivid snapshots from prior honoree ceremonies I was invited to this year — The President’s Platform Party for distinguished Purchase College graduates, The Black Graduation, and The State University of New York Chancellor’s Award for Excellence ceremony. It’s empowering to take in how people congregate to celebrate the achievements of one another and, furthermore, uplift communities that often have the odds stacked against them. Stepping out of the elevator and into The Gracies Leadership Awards, there was an overwhelming feeling knowing that I was in a space, this time, recognizing phenomenal women movers and shakers.

Chesley Maddox-Dorsey, CEO of A wonder Media Company (AWMC, LLC), said, “For me, business is personal, disruptive, and a force for transformative change.” As a scripted TV writer, I apply this mindset in my creative work. I write stories to bridge gaps and break boundaries by emphasizing authentic representation of diverse characters and stories. To push the envelope and be daring as a writer is just as important because the stories we see in the media reflect the world we live in and how people see themselves. Being empowered to shape the next iteration of television makes me hopeful for the future. Thanks to the Gracies Leadership Awards, I am further reminded I am in good hands working with women leaders and business executives that are paving the way for these stories to be heard beyond the page.

Laila Wilson is a recipient of the 2022 Mattel Student Fellowship. She is currently a student at Stony Brook University, and we look forward to seeing how she continues to shape the world of media in the future.

Amy Burton

February, 2023

Blog, Gracies Leadership Award

Rachel Katz’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

Being able to attend the Gracie’s Leadership Awards was a really amazing and moving experience for me, as someone who is a young adult entering the television field. I was able to witness history by being in a room with a powerhouse group of women. The speeches were phenomenal, and everyone was so motivational and showing that no matter where you came from, no matter what you looked like, and no matter what your circumstances are, you can do anything you put your mind to. I was really amazed at the way that everyone empowered each other. I enjoyed being in the city, and it was an amazing venue as well, and watching the painting being made was something very interesting. I was able to connect with a lot of the women I met on LinkedIn which shows me that they actually do care, more than about just saying they do but actually showing that they want to help people who are coming up in the industry. Many people I spoke with had very interesting stories and I hope someday that I can be on the other side and accepting an award for something this great someday!

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

Amy Burton

February, 2023

Blog, Gracies Leadership Award

Jordan Ruttert’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

Attending the Gracie Awards as a Mattel Fellow, I was unsure what to expect from the experience. I understood the event would provide us students with an invaluable networking opportunity. However, the highlight of the Gracie’s was listening to the empowering stories of the women being honored. As an avid media consumer, I often study the reporters I see on TV, trying to learn as much as I can through observation. Yet, as viewers welcome these friendly faces into their homes as they tune in to watch the news, people often neglect to recognize all the work behind the scenes to create a quality production. I was delighted to see that the Gracie’s provided a space to recognize the heart of media. It was so rewarding to listen to the female honorees who are living proof that with passion, drive, and hard work, women can continue to break glass ceilings and produce honest content that continues to inquire and inspire.

Jordan Ruttert is a recipient of the 2022 Mattel Student Fellowship. She is currently a student at New York University, and we look forward to seeing how she continues to shape the world of media in the future.

Gracies

January, 2023

Press Release, The Gracies

Alliance for Women in Media Foundation Extends Deadline for the 2023 Gracie Award Entries

January 17, 2023 (New York City/Los Angeles) – The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) is pleased to announce that the deadline to submit entries for the 48th Annual Gracie Awards has been extended through January 26, 2023 (11:59 pm ET). The regular deadline, with no additional fee, is January 19, 2023 (11:59 pm ET). The Gracie Awards, presented by AWMF, celebrate programming and individual achievement by, for and about women in television, radio/audio and digital media.  Submissions from all facets of media are encouraged. A full list of the categories can be found here.

“As our largest fundraiser of the year, the Gracie Awards empower the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation to deliver on its promise of advancing all women in media by strengthening their connection, education and recognition in our industry,” says Becky Brooks, AWMF president.

The Gracie Awards Gala will be May 23 at the renowned Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire hotel and the Gracie Awards Luncheon will be held on June 20 at the Cipriani 42nd Street, New York. AWMF is grateful to its donors and sponsors committed to furthering the mission of the organization including Hallmark Media and NCTA – The Internet and Television Association.  

The Gracie Awards are also honored to have the leadership of Ms. Heather Cohen, Executive Vice President, The Weiss Agency; Annie Howell, Chief Communications Officer, Hallmark Media; and Mike McVay, President, McVay Media Consulting as Gracies Co-Chairs and Mr. Vicangelo Bulluck serving as Executive Producer.

The 2023 Gracie Awards entry eligibility air dates are from January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022. Entry details, including pricing and updated categories, can be viewed at https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/call-for-entries/.

About the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation: In 1960, the Alliance for Women in Media became the first professional broadcasting organization to establish an educational foundation. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (formerly known as The Foundation of American Women in Radio & Television) supports and promotes educational programs, charitable activities, public service campaigns and scholarships to benefit the public, the electronic media and allied fields. The Foundation also produces nationally acclaimed recognition programs, including the Gracie Awards®, a gala that honors exemplary programming created by, for or about women. 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, LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook. For more information about the Gracie Awards and to submit your entries, please visit www.allwomeninmedia.org/gracies.  

CONTACT:

Jenny Ditto

Awards and Public Relations Manager

jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org

Ph: 859.514.3008

Becky Brooks

December, 2022

Blog, Press Release, The Gracies

2022 – An AWM Year in Review

It is refreshing to write a Year in Review where we’ve had the opportunity to get together in-person for nearly every AWM-hosted event in 2022 for the first time in three years. Who would have ever dreamed it would take this long to consistently connect again? In March of 2020, many of us thought we needed to stay at home for a few weeks – three years later, we’re back-ish. 

While we still must take precautions and there’s a hint of uncertainty, there is also a willingness to gather at the risk of staying isolated any longer. 2022 was unpredictable and created inherent hesitancies after a two-year separation.

This was a year where COVID vaccines became widely available, where we learned more about “supply chain” than ever thought possible, where we paid attention to gasoline prices and felt the pain of grocery bills. All the while, there were enjoyable and even epic moments like seeing the world come together for the World Cup, unite behind causes like women’s rights in countries where they are suppressed and find reasons for hopefulness such as recent protections secured for equality in marriage. 

As we say every year, through it all, media was there, on the frontlines, to tell the stories. You were there when others couldn’t be so our communities could see and hear first-hand accounts of life in their backyards and around the world. 

Brave journalists were the feature of this acknowledgement at the Gracie Awards Gala this year, which focused on war correspondents — throughout history and this year on the frontlines in Ukraine and elsewhere. 

At the end of every year, I reflect on the bravery of the women signing AWM into existence more than 70 years ago and then creating an awards program 50 years ago to celebrate the programming and individual talent created by, for and about women. This year, we continued that tradition through gatherings at the NAB Show, our Gracie Awards, the first Gracies Leadership Awards in three years and the second AWM Connects where those newer to the industry are connected to executives. 

As we move forward, our leadership is focused squarely on a phrase that encapsulates who we are – advancing women in media. This will continue through our existing programs and scholarships as well as additional opportunities added following the recent Strategic Planning session. This is only possible through the engagement of our media community. You can make this possible through a donation (Venmo @AWM-Foundation), join AWM and enter outstanding content and programming for the Gracie Awards. 

On a personal level, it was so good to be back “in-person” across the board. I thrive being around people and get energy from events and experiences. Our kids started high school and middle school in an actual building, which was so refreshing (of course, with its own set of “special” at those ages.) And as so many who read this note can appreciate, balancing work-life with family and work is fulfilling and exhausting. I’m a better mom and steward to AWM with organized chaos. 

I’m finishing 2022 cautiously hopeful for next year. We know things can change on a dime and value the connections and work of our industry and know there is more we can do together. 

As we say at the close of our events

Good night Gracie!

Becky Brooks

(Proudly) President, AWM & Foundation

Amy Burton

November, 2022

Blog, Gracies Leadership Award

Haajrah Gilani’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

On my way to the Gracies, a truck parked and filled with men honked at me as I crossed the street.

I found the blare so perplexing that I stumbled and fell in the middle of the street. In my mortified state, I picked myself up, dusted off my skirt and continued my walk.

When I arrived, I quietly shared the elevator with other attendees. I had copies of my resume and writing samples in my folder. I had remarks and questions in my mind. Still, we rode up to the eleventh floor in complete silence.

It’s so easy to feel small.

In classrooms and meetings, I try to be myself even if it’s at the expense of coming off annoying or any of the other connotations that come with being a confident woman.

But being a 21-year-old in a too-big blazer and no industry connections while standing on a Tribeca rooftop can be intimidating. I found myself nervously drinking water and wandering around, hoping my apprehension wasn’t apparent.

When I began meeting the other college students attending the event, I traded my third glass of water for a state of ease. We exchanged our ambitions and shared our anxieties of not fitting in with the accomplished lineup.

Somewhere along the way of being incredibly impressed by the attendees in my age group, I thought to myself, “there’s a reason why I’m here.”

As strange of a thought as was, I had to come to terms with the fact that I was invited to the Gracies, that I had every right to feel a sense of belonging in the vast room. The room was simply too big for me to feel conscious about how much space I took up.

Once I sat with the rest of my table, I began to think about how the event wasn’t incredibly different from a lecture. Like in any traditional academic setting, I was here to learn.

Of the seven honorees, Valerie Blackburn, Nancy Daniels, Marie Donoghue, Kim Godwin, Wendy Goldberg, Chesley Maddox-Dorsey, Debra OConnell and Dawn Porter along with the event’s keynote speaker, Soledad O’Brien, there was never a dull moment.

Nearly every honoree spoke about moments like the perturbing truck honk or hushed elevator ride, about critical points that caused them to question the value they brought to a room. And, still, all of them managed to overcome these doubts, woes and setbacks.

At one point during her acceptance speech, one of the speakers had to pause and ask for water. While we all laughed it off, I kept thinking about this moment for the rest of the event and how there was power to it.

The more I watched these high-achieving women accept awards with hearts-on-their-sleeves speeches, I realized that asking for help or tearing up on stage are acts that require admirable amounts of vulnerability.

Women are punished constantly for traits commonly associated with femininity, like openly displaying our emotions. If there was anything I took away from my time at the Gracies, it’s that strong women don’t shrink because of their weak moments.

While I fell, I also stood up. While I didn’t introduce myself in the elevator, I still made it to the event. While I don’t always feel my own value or power, that doesn’t negate from its existence.

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

Amy Burton

November, 2022

Blog, Gracies Leadership Award

Megan Hatlee’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Awards

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

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

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

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

Amy Burton

November, 2022

Gracies Leadership Award, Press Release

Alliance for Women in Media Honors Eight Female Leaders at the Gracies Leadership Awards

Photos and video from the event can be found here.

November 14, 2022 (New York, New York) – The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) hosted the Gracies Leadership Awards luncheon, back for the first time in person after three years, Monday, November 14 at the Tribeca 360° in New York City.  Keynote speaker Soledad O’Brien inspired the audience and referenced the honorees in the room as representing “Stories not just of grit, vision, and opportunity, but of women helping women and celebrating women and the story of how those women didn’t forget that they got into media to elevate people and issues and struggles that were not in the spotlight.” She continued, “When I look around this room, I know we are in great hands. So, let’s reach out to each other and make change happen, let’s have each other’s backs.

Seven female leaders in media were honored at the event, along with the AWM Legacy Leadership recipient, Valerie Blackburn.  Highlights from the speeches include:

  • Valerie Blackburn, AWM Legacy Leadership Award recipient, began her remarks by referencing the pivotal role her family made in her life and career and continued, “Most of you know I have been gifted with a larger extended family, many in this room, and largely in part to AWM. It’s difficult to articulate what AWM has meant to me professionally and personally- even though I am merely a blip in these 70 years, being involved has been one of the greatest journeys of my life.”  
  • Nancy Daniels, Chief of Content, NTets, Discovery, Animal Planet &Science Channel, discussed leadership and what it means to her, “The best leaders that I encountered in my career always led by example, they always showed up, they expect a lot, but they also give a lot in return-mentorship, experience, and they give opportunity.” 
  • In accepting the honor, Marie Donoghue, Vice President, Global Sports Video, Amazon, said, “Being a woman in sports can be an amazing career- but it can also be lonely and challenging. I’ve always relied on my own mini alliance, we came up together and supported each other in so many ways, we lift each other up, amplify each other, celebrate each other. Most importantly, we’ve got each other.
  • Kim Godwin, President, ABC News began her acceptance speech referring to the late Gracie Allen and the meaning of grace.  She continued in referencing the many “she-ros” in her life, “For every person who didn’t see me, there was one who did, for every person who denied me an opportunity, there was someone who gave me one, and because someone gave me a chance, I have decided I will give others a chance, and because someone invested in me, I will invest in others.”
  • Wendy Goldberg, Chief Communications Officer, iHeartMedia,Inc. focused on the importance of mentorship and the women around her, saying, “Instead of seeing it through my own leaders or mentors, I saw it from the people I had around me. So, for me, this award is really about them- their generosity, their talent and their example… I’m inspired by them, I respect them, I’m often in awe of them.”
  • Chesley Maddox-Dorsey, CEO, A wonder Media Company (AWMC, LLC) said, “For me business is personal, disruptive, and a force for transformative change.” She spoke directly to all the women and students beginning their media careers, “My advice is, be curious, learn, improve- we need you, we need your creativity, we need your unique perspectives, we need you to take up the gauntlet.”
  • Debra OConnell, President, Networks, Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution, said during her acceptance, “Yesterday I received a gift, it was a t-shirt that said- ‘As Strong As The Woman Next To Me’- I feel very strong with all of the women next to me today.” OConnell continued, “We have the opportunity to share stories of strong exceptional women, and we take this responsibility so seriously to message to our communities, the importance of women representation and inclusivity.”
  • Dawn Porter, Founder, Trilogy Films, said upon receiving her honor, “We are a small but mighty group of strong women (and a very few men). I trace my earliest professional inspiration to women like Kerry Smith from ABC News who showed me that integrity is central to everything. The women I work with now are smart, capable and fun. I know that I could never do everything I do without their wisdom and grace.”

 “It is an exciting day to celebrate women who have reached the top. They are inspiring and showing how women continue to make an impact in executive suites and boardrooms,” said Becky Brooks, President, AWM/F.

 “This is a pivotal event for us because it covers all three of our pillars- it’s recognition, it’s education, and it’s connection,” added Heather Cohen, Chair, Alliance for Women in Media Foundation. “We shine a light on exceptional women in media- those who have shattered glass ceilings and proven their leadership and notable today, what an honor to have Soledad O’Brien, one of the greatest storytellers of our time as our keynote.”

Sponsors of the event include Google News Initiative, ABC News, AURN-American Urban Radio Networks, Clear Channel Outdoor, Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution, Hallmark Media, iHeartMedia, KatzMedia Group, Mattel, NCTA-The Internet & Television Association, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Sony Pictures Television.

###

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.

CONTACT:

Jenny Ditto

Awards & Public Relations Manager

jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org

Ph: 513.407.3637

Amy Burton

October, 2022

Blog, Membership

Member Spotlight: Zena Burns, Futuri

In the October 2022 issue of “A Minute with Membership,” AWM’s members-only newsletter, we heard from member Zena Burns, SVP, Content and Special Projects for Futuri.

Why are organizations like the Alliance for Women in Media important today?

Real talk: I wish organizations like the Alliance for Women in Media weren’t necessary. I wish women at all levels of media organizations stood on equal footing with men. But while we’ve made incredible strides over the years, we’re not there yet, so organizations like the Alliance for Women in Media are crucial for helping to level the playing field. As you say, the Alliance for Women in Media connects, recognizes, and inspires women across the media industry, and I love that AWM has so many different ways for women to learn, grow, and support one another. Because if we don’t support one another, we’re never going to get to that place of equal footing. 

What inspired you to become a member?

As I was progressing in my career in media and getting to a place where I had some juice, I felt that I had a responsibility to other talented women to help them move forward as well. I’d benefitted from that support from other women as I was moving up the ladder, and I wanted to pay it forward.

Also, I’d been unbelievably lucky to develop a strong network of personal and professional friends in the industry where we could have candid conversations about our experiences and help each other strategize on how to overcome gender-related obstacles in the workplace. This is not something that everyone has. When I learned more about the Alliance for Women in Media, I saw that it was a way for me to grow and learn from a broader community, and also give back by sharing my own experiences and helping others avoid some of the many, many mistakes I’ve made over the years!

What is your greatest advice, to women or men, no matter where they are in their career?

This is something I learned from Martha Nelson, the former Editor-in-Chief of Time Inc, when I was Music Editor at Teen People Magazine back in the day: “Long life, long career.” There are so many different ways to use that advice. On one hand, it’s a way to put setbacks in perspective. I use it primarily to remind myself that just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should do something. Professionally, if you have an opportunity to advance by stabbing someone in the back, or by being less than truthful when trying to get a deal done, it’s going to come back to you in a negative fashion one way or another. Like Warren Buffett says, “It takes 20 years to build a reputation and 5 minutes to destroy it.” So with me, what you see is what you get, like it or not, and I sleep well at night. Have I missed a few opportunities to advance because of that? Sure. But beyond the fact that it’s just not who I am, the stress and pressure associated with acting like that just isn’t worth it. It goes back to a cheeky but useful phrase my dad started using with me as early as I can remember: “You don’t have a good enough memory to be a liar.” I don’t want to have to remember what story I told what person!

On the advice front, I just launched a new podcast on this topic — My 23-Year-Old Self: True Stories From the Come-Up. It features conversations with successful women in media, entertainment, and technology (and some good male allies) about the advice they’d give their younger selves as they were growing their careers. It’s designed for young women in those industries, and really anyone who’s interested in hearing great stories and advice from accomplished and amazing women. You can follow or subscribe on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. I’d love to hear feedback on the teaser and ideas for women you think should be featured on the show!

Zena’s Bio

Zena Burns has spent more than two decades at the forefront of developing iconic brands in the media, entertainment, and technology spaces. As SVP, Content & Special Projects at Futuri, Burns runs content creation efforts tied to its innovation initiatives; known for its groundbreaking software solutions rooted in AI, Futuri helps its thousands of broadcast and digital publishing partners worldwide grow audience and revenue through wise use of technology.

Before Futuri, Burns was SVP, Programming Partnerships, in iHeartMedia’s NPG team, having started at then-Clear Channel NYC in 2006 as the radio industry’s first Digital Program Director. She’s also a proud alumnus of TEEN PEOPLE Magazine, where, as Entertainment Director and Music Editor, she played a key role in driving pop culture and giving early looks to countless numbers of today’s superstars. 

Knowledge Areas

Radio, audio, television, video, digital, content creation, programming, journalism, strategy, communications, writing, marketing.


For more information about “A Minute with Membership,” AWM membership, or with suggestions for future member spotlights, please contact amy.burton@allwomeninmedia.org.

Amy Burton

October, 2022

Press Release, The Gracies

Call for Entries Open for 48th Annual Gracie Awards

October 13 (New York City/Los Angeles) – The Gracie Awards, presented by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF), is proud to open the call for entries for the 48th Annual Gracie Awards.

“The Gracie Awards celebrate and honor truly exceptional content by, for and about women. We are more committed than ever to honor the remarkable work by so many in our creative community”, says Becky Brooks AWMF president. “As our most important fundraiser of the year, the Gracies enables the Foundation to deliver on its promise to further the connection, education and recognition of women in media,.”

For nearly 50 years, the Gracies has honored individual talent and exemplary programming created by women, for women and about women in television, radio and digital media in news and entertainment. 

Serving again as co-chairs for the 2023 Gracie Awards are Heather Cohen, executive vice president, The Weiss Agency, Annie Howell, chief communications officer Hallmark Media and Mike McVay, president, McVay Media Consulting. Vicangelo Bulluck, an Emmy Award-winning, seasoned veteran in awards production, has produced the Gracie Awards since 2016 and will return to produce the Gracie Awards in 2023.

Entry eligibility air dates are from January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2022. Early Bird rates for entries end on December 15, 2022, at 11:59 PM Eastern. The deadline for all entries is January 12, 2023, at 11:59 PM Eastern. Entry details including pricing, updated categories can be viewed at https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/call-for-entries/

Gracies

October, 2022

Blog, The Gracies, Video Blog

Gracie Awards Call for Entries Opening Soon

The 48th 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 48th 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.

Amy Burton

September, 2022

Blog, Membership

Member Spotlight: AWM Connects Alum Alex Razo and Lindsay Guentzel

In the September 2022 issue of “A Minute with Membership,” AWM’s members-only newsletter, we hear from two of the 2021 AWM Connects mentees about their experience with the inaugural mentorship program, what they are doing now, and the advice they would give to future AWM connects participants.

AWM Connects is a virtual mentoring program that will connect young/new professionals with senior level executives throughout television, radio, and digital media. The inaugural event was held in December 2021 and we are excited to announce that it will be back on December 14, 2022! If you would like to receive an alert when the 2022 AWM Connects information goes live, please email amy.burton@allwomeninmedia.org

How did the 2021 AWM Connects program have an impact on your career and/or your outlook on your career path?

ALEX RAZO: While it was a wonderful experience getting to meet and learn from the mentors, what made the program extra special was also connecting to the fellow mentees. Meeting women who are currently going through similar experiences was cathartic and helped reignite my love of broadcasting at a time when I really needed the boost.

LINDSAY GUENTZEL: Prior to applying for the 2021 AWM Connects program, I felt kind of lost. The pandemic combined with a new ADHD diagnosis — add in an intense couple of years in Minnesota where I live and work in news – I wasn’t sure what I even wanted anymore. Even just applying felt like a shot in the dark. So, when I found out I was accepted into the program, I was elated. It felt like someone had looked at all the work I’ve done, most of which I had either forgotten about or had been too hesitant to promote, and thought I was good enough. 

And then to meet my mentor and have her ask questions about my career and to have her be genuinely engaged. It was so energizing. It was such an awesome reminder of the power we have to inspire people by simply being present. And it was the reminder I needed to keep pushing myself, to keep going after my own goals and aspirations. As cliche as it might sound, it made me feel like I belong, that my talents and my skills belong. 

What new endeavors have you undertaken since the AWM Connects program in December 2021?

RAZO: While I’ve continued to maintain the high standards and ratings for both of my shows, I will also be given the opportunity to join one of our reporters as he begins production on the latest installment in his documentary series for the station and iHeartMedia.

GUENTZEL: In May of 2022, I launched Refocused with Lindsay Guentzel, a podcast collaboration with ADHD Online, a telemedicine healthcare company based in Grand Rapids, Michigan that provides ADHD assessments, medication management and teletherapy. My own ADHD diagnosis was truly life-changing, the answer to a question I had been looking for my entire life but didn’t even know. So, to be able to combine my love of storytelling in a way that’s helping people, it’s overwhelming in the best way. I do still have career goals that aren’t tied to my ADHD, but it feels like every role I’ve had over the last 15 years was meant to prepare me for this. That this is what I’m meant to do. 

Why are organizations like the Alliance for Women in Media important today?

RAZO: I think organizations like the Alliance for Women in Media are important because it’s wonderful to have a sense of community. Every person I’ve met and interacted with in and through the organization has been kind, forthcoming and very willing to help.

GUENTZEL: We’re finally seeing results after years and years of talking about the importance of representation. Organizations like Alliance for Women in Media, along with this mentorship program, help speed up those timelines for change. They also work to increase accountability and transparency and they instill a sense of community and support for people working in jobs that have been under fire for the last six or seven years. 

What advice would you give someone who is interested in participating in the next AWM Connects mentorship program?

RAZO: Don’t be afraid to ask questions…it may feel intimidating to speak with the mentors, but they WANT to talk to you! Also, connect to your fellow mentees…it’s just as rewarding connecting with them as it is with the mentors.

GUENTZEL: Know what you are looking for before you head in. And by that, I mean, be able to give your mentor a list of actual things you need help with. Need your demo looked at? Have the file in a Dropbox folder so you can forward it immediately. Have a specific organization you want to work for but don’t have a foot in the door? Tell them. Don’t hold anything back. Outside of asking for $1 million dollars and expecting to get it, go in thinking the sky’s the limit. Because for your mentor, that truly might be the case. And you do not get enough time in the mentorship – or in life – to be demure. Get after it. 

Bios

RAZO: Alex has over 5 years of radio and broadcasting experience. After graduating from Cal State Northridge in 2017, she began working for KFI AM 640 in Los Angeles as a producer. KFI is one of the most listened to news-talk radio stations in the country and serves all of Southern California. Alex started her career there as an intern for the morning show while as a student, and after being hired part-time was promoted to being the full-time producer of both morning shows (Wake Up Call and the Bill Handel Show) only a few months later.

GUENTZEL: My name is Lindsay Guentzel and I’m the host and producer of Refocused with Lindsay Guentzel, a podcast collaboration with ADHD Online that explores the often-misunderstood world of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. I really like to work and I’m incredibly ambitious so a lot of time, there’s no distinct line showing where work ends and my life begins. But when I do take a break, I enjoy running, eating delicious food (preferably cooked for me, although I do love having the time to try new recipes at home), attending sporting events outdoors in nice weather, and anything crafty and creative. 

Knowledge Areas

RAZO: Radio, television, communications, video and audio editing, news writing and editing, research, media relations, programming, field producing, digital and social media management.

GUENTZEL: Radio, television, content creation, audio, producing, journalism, on-air talent, writing, and media relations.


For more information about “A Minute with Membership,” AWM membership, or with suggestions for future member spotlights, please contact amy.burton@allwomeninmedia.org.

Gracies

September, 2022

Gracies Leadership Award, Press Release

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

Guest Author

August, 2022

Blog, Membership

Member Spotlight: Michelle Duke, National Association of Broadcasters

In the August 2022 issue of “A Minute with Membership,” AWM’s members-only newsletter, we heard from member Michelle Duke, President of the NAB Leadership Foundation and Chief Diversity Officer at NAB.

Why are organizations like the Alliance for Women in Media important today?

While women are making great strides in our industry, we still aren’t at parity with the number of men in leadership positions and certainly not in ownership. Organizations like the Alliance for Women in Media offer women the opportunity to be recognized for their contributions to the industry and network with other women who are making a difference. AWM and AWM Foundation are also a source of information and industry connections for women who are building toward leadership positions in media. 

What inspired you to become a member?

I have been a member of AWM since it was the American Women in Radio and Television (AWRT). I joined because of the opportunity to network with and be mentored by women who were making significant strides in the fields of television and radio. As the organization has expanded its reach to include all women in media, I have had the opportunity to learn from women who work in every facet of the media space. As a result, I’ve developed life-long friendships, fruitful partnerships, and a broader knowledge of the industry. I was honored to serve on the board of AWM for many years. It was a privilege to help shape the direction of the organization. Now, I strongly encourage individuals who want to be connected, build opportunities for others, and contribute to the advancement of women in our business to get involved at the committee or board level. 

What is your greatest advice, to women or men, no matter where they are in their career?

Make it a point to ask yourself with some degree of frequency if you are happy and having fun. Then, be brave enough to change the situation if you aren’t. That doesn’t always mean leaving a job or industry. It could, but it might also mean restructuring your current role, reinventing yourself, returning to school, giving back to others, or finding a side hustle that brings you joy. For me, happiness has been a significant key to success.

Michelle’s Bio

Michelle Duke has over 30 years of experience in the media industry working as a journalist, and a nonprofit and trade association executive. She is currently the President of the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) and the Chief Diversity Officer of the National Association of Broadcasters.

Before joining the NAB Leadership Foundation in January 2005, she was the Director of Leadership Programs for the Newspaper Association of America. She started her media career as a reporter for the now defunct, afternoon daily The Nashville Banner, which was based in Nashville, TN. Duke received her Bachelor of Science in journalism from Middle Tennessee State University.

Knowledge Areas

Radio, television, diversity, strategy, leadership development, recruitment and retention, writing


For more information about “A Minute with Membership,” AWM membership, or with suggestions for future member spotlights, please contact amy.burton@allwomeninmedia.org.

Guest Author

August, 2022

Blog, The Gracies

My Experience as a Gracies Judge

It is a privilege and unmatched opportunity to screen the countless amazing productions submitted for the Gracie Awards.  Over the years, I can barely remember few entries that did not make this a very competitive awards program. In many cases, it is difficult to limit oneself to watching only enough to rate the content as our inclination is to sit and watch or listen – everything is incredibly compelling.  

The Gracies are synonymous with the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation. Judging Gracie entries is one of the most enjoyable experiences I have annually in the world of media. With the mantra, “by women, for women, or about women” as the overarching philosophy, judges indulge in viewing and evaluating the production values as well as the content of television, radio, and digital media.

Gracies judging has evolved over the years. Ten years ago, it was a collaborative group effort, with everyone in-person, and has evolved as our world has to include virtual judges. Prior to the Covid-19 Pandemic, I judged in-person in Washington, DC for a weekend, beginning on Friday evening with dinner and networking with other judges. Saturday morning, judging began in small groups in separate rooms with a specific number of entries assigned to each group.  Any remaining submissions not completed on Saturday would be completed Sunday morning. Two very intense but delightful days!

With submissions growing each year, judging is now offered virtually and in-person to be inclusive of experts from across the country in all media genres. The number of entries submitted for each category varies, and the work is subdivided into manageable amounts of entries assigned for each judging group.

Often the programs are new, or just new to me, and I’m drawn into the subject. Most judges will tell you they keep a notepad nearby to jot down the names of programs to add to their personal viewing or listening.  

Not only have I been a judge for the last eleven years, but I had the opportunity to host the Gracies judging weekend at the National Press Club in Washington, DC, where I was the Director of the Studio Operation. Groups of judges utilized control rooms, studios and edit suites. How quickly the judges bonded over the shared experience of screening the countless works!

In-person judging is a wonderful networking opportunity for industry peers to gather. Working with other media professionals from around the country is another invaluable benefit of being a judge. To connect with women who are executives, producers, programmers, representing the countless fields of work in media is informative and gratifying. After all these years, I still look forward to the opportunity to participate and recognize the amazing talent of the women in media. I hope to see you in person in 2023 as we gather to experience and celebrate more outstanding content by, for and about women.

Vija Udenans has served as a Gracies Judge for eleven years. She is recently retired after working for over 40 years in the media industry.

Guest Author

July, 2022

Video Blog

NOTE FROM 2021 SCHOLARSHIP WINNER, OMOSE IGHODARO

My dream to attend Columbia University’s Journalism school was achieved, thanks to the generous educational scholarships offered by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF).

Since being named the 2021 recipient of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation & Ford Empowering America Scholarship, my dream is becoming a reality. Last month, I graduated from Columbia University, grew my platform AfroVibes.com, an online platform spotlighting African leaders and connecting the African diaspora to new levels, and will begin a new position at Bloomberg News this fall.

As a young Nigerian-American, the AWMF scholarship supported me and gave me confidence during a time where I hesitated to believe in myself. I’m grateful to have been introduced to many amazing leaders in media through AWMF as well.

I want to personally thank you for your generosity and vote of confidence. Without scholarship patrons willing to support women in media, students like myself would not be able to pursue advanced degrees that in turn, help to further propel diversity within the media community.

This week, I had the opportunity to attend the 47th annual Gracie’s Award Luncheon in New York which gave me much hope and inspiration. I saw several talented, diverse, award winners which reemphasized the possibilities for a recent graduate like myself.

So, thank you – I’m one step closer being a future media mogul. Stay tuned!

Omose Ighodaro is a Columbia University Journalism School Graduate, Masters of Science, Class of ’22. She was the recipient of the 2021 Alliance for Women in Media Foundation and Ford Empowering America Scholarship. We look forward to seeing even more from Omose in the future.

Gracies

June, 2022

Press Release, The Gracies

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 42nd 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 47th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon at Cipriani 42nd 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 SnowNBC 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 47th 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.

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

Gracies

June, 2022

Press Release, The Gracies

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 42nd 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 47th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon set for June 22 at Cipriani 42nd 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

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

Gracies

May, 2022

Press Release

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.

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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

Gracies

May, 2022

Press Release, The Gracies

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

Holly Robinson Peete
Photographer: Antwon Maxwell
Christina Perri
Photographer: Ashley Osborne

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.

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Press Contacts

Sunshine Sachs Morgan & Lylis

Gracies@SunshineSachs.com

Catherine Combs

December, 2020

Uncategorized

The Year in Review

By Becky Brooks, AWM/F Executive Director

Wow – what a year! We are closing out twelve months at a time when most of us can use the phrase, “if someone had told me eight months ago we would…” fill in the blank. The silver lining? There are few times in history where a single event, or experience, has impacted nearly everyone in some way. There is some measure of comfort in that all of us are living with the same uncertainty…and hope.    

In past “Year in Review” reflections, I recall events that took place throughout the year — those moments, by the time we get to December, we forgot happened and the role media played in the storytelling. In the spirit of not “doing things just because we’ve always done them” – I won’t walk down 2020’s memory lane!

What should stay the same, however, is the importance of celebrating storytellers. 2020 was an opportunity for journalists to put into action what we’ve known is true and hadn’t seen to even these extremes – to share the must-tell stories however and from wherever they could – basements, front rooms of apartments, in the streets and everywhere in between. Our connection to media, in every form, was even more powerful in a year that brought a pandemic, social justice movement and a challenging presidential election.

And we have a heightened need to connect with others in person.

Speaking for myself, this lack of connection is real and it’s hard. We have two kids who are attending school virtually since March while my husband and I work from home. As I said at the beginning, if someone told us eight months ago our kids wouldn’t walk the halls of a school and we would work from home through the end of the year – oh, and pulling off events virtually for the first time ever – we would have had a good laugh over the absurdity! Yet we did it. We have enjoyed breathing for a minute when not at a soccer game that was cancelled or swim meet we watched online – and remembered to enjoy every minute of cross country and activities outside.

So, while we don’t want to ignore that things are hard – it’s taught us more in a short period of time than imaginable. We are courageous and tenacious albeit weary. One of my favorite stories of courage is that of the founders of AWM. We celebrate 70 years of AWM next year. Imagine the courage of those women signing an organization into existence in 1951! There were so few women in media roles at that time they formed a group to educate, connect and recognize others just like them.

As we look to turn the page into 2021, we invite you to join us in celebrating the courage of all women in media and supporting our journey. We will offer opportunities throughout the year to engage and recognize those who have inspired you. We need your financial support to keep doing the important work of creating programs, offering scholarships and recognizing the courageous storytellers. Please consider a donation to the Foundation, joining AWM, posting your jobs on our career center and entering for a Gracie. These are all ways to keep us active and thriving and we cannot do it without you.

I am so grateful for the amazing leadership of AWM and our partners who navigated and steered us through 2020 while looking forward to everything that is possible as we build on the lessons from this historic and unimaginable year!

Cheers to 2021!

Catherine Combs

August, 2020

Press Release

THE 45th ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS ANNOUNCE ALL-STAR VIRTUAL EXPERIENCE HAPPENING LIVE ON SEPTEMBER 10th

Show Will Feature Impact Award Recipient Katy Perry, and Honorees Including Danai Gurira, Naomi Watts, Michelle Williams, Natasha Lyonne, Amy Poehler, Tamron Hall, Gayle King and More

Program will Feature Performances by Mickey Guyton, Special Award Tribute by Dr. Sanjay Gupta to Frontline Journalists Bringing COVID-19 and Black Lives Matter Coverage to Homes across America, and Grey’s Anatomy’s “Silent All These Years” Episode will Receive a Stand-out Moment

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) announced the 45th annual Gracie Awards program will air live on AWMF’s Facebook page on September 10, 2020 at 7pm ET/PT. The virtual event will recognize esteemed honoree Katy Perry, who will receive the Gracies Impact Award, which is presented to an artist who has made a positive impact on society through their music. Dr. Sanjay Gupta will deliver a special tribute to frontline journalists who covered breaking news regarding the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic and Black Lives Matter movement, and some of the most talented women in television, radio, and digital media will be honored for their incredible contributions to media this year including Naomi Watts, Michelle Williams, Natasha Lyonne, Amy Poehler, Tamron Hall, and Angela Yee.

Danai Gurira, Norah O’Donnell, Fiona Shaw, Andrea Mitchell and Gayle King will appear in the virtual show along with country superstar Mickey Guyton who will perform twice throughout the night, and Grey’s Anatomy’s “Silent All These Years” episode will receive the Grand Award for the incredibly powerful episode which brought attention to sexual assault survivors. Tune-in on Thursday, Sept. 10 at 7 pm ET/PT at @AllWomenInMedia on Facebook and Instagram, as well as the Alliance for Women in Media’s YouTube page.

“There’s no doubt that this year has been indescribable – but one thing that has stayed consistent is the level of content that continues to be generated by and for women,” said Becky Brooks, Executive Director, Alliance for Women in Media Foundation.  “We understand that people are going through unprecedented times and it’s our commitment to bring the world in for the first time and see the magic of the Gracie Awards as we celebrate some of the brave and poignant, storytellers of our time.”

In the fifth 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 Ziploc®, Facebook, NCTA – The Internet & Television Association, CNN, Crown Media, CBS Corporation, Katz Media Group, Beasley Media Group, and the Ford Motor Company.

Please celebrate all Gracie Award winners with us by watching the video montage dedications on the AWM website. Acceptance speeches of all honorees highlighting their content are available in montages beginning today.

About The Gracie Awards

The Gracie Awards is the largest fundraiser of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation 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.

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Catherine Combs

July, 2020

Uncategorized

Alliance for Women in Media Foundation Releases Interview with American Medical Association President, Dr. Susan Bailey

Moderated by Entercom’s Kelly Ford, Host of the ‘Kelly Ford in the Morning’ Show

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) released the latest installment of the AWM Gracie Interview Series – A Virtual Gathering with American Medical Association President Susan R. Bailey, M.D. Titled “Medicine and The Media – Leadership in Historic Times,” the session was moderated by Entercom’s Kelly Ford, host of Kelly Ford in the Morning on New York’s Country 94.7. The Gracie Interview Series – A Virtual Gathering series was created to engage leaders in media to share wisdom and guidance during a time of immense change and unpredictability.

In response to a question about what medical experts have learned since February, Dr. Bailey shared, “It’s not flip flopping – this is how science is supposed to work. When we get new data, we draw new conclusions and may need to change recommendations.” Regarding how media can be of service to the medical community, Dr. Bailey added, “Ultimately, we are all in this together. By sharing information, we can kick this virus.”

The full recording of the session can be experienced here:

“Dr. Bailey shared meaningful insight into the important partnership between media and the medical community. This is a critical time for media to understand its role and for all of us to know our roles as individuals,” Becky Brooks, Executive Director of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation stated. “We look forward to hosting more virtual gatherings to share the wisdom of experienced leaders.”

The Gracie Interview Series – Virtual Gatherings are a segment of The Gracie Awards brand. The Gracies are the largest fundraising event by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Alliance for Women in Media (AWM), which supports educational programs, charitable activities and scholarships. To engaged with AWM, please consider joining the association or donating to the Foundation so we can continue to offer important programs like this interview series.

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Catherine Combs

June, 2020

Uncategorized

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation Announces Virtual Gracie Awards Show to Stream on September 10, 2020

June 30, 2020 The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) announces the 45th Annual Gracie Awards will be streamed virtually on September 10, 2020.  The Gracies Gala, originally scheduled for May 19, 2020, was intended to be held at the Beverly Wilshire, Beverly Hills, A Four Seasons Hotel, and the Gracies Luncheon, originally scheduled for June 24, 2020, was intended to be held in New York City at Cipriani 42nd Street. The 2020 honorees will now be celebrated through a series of digital acceptance speech montages along with a virtual awards ceremony.

“The leadership of AWMF, which annually presents the Gracies as our largest fundraiser, has had one singular focus – to appropriately acknowledge and celebrate our outstanding winners in whatever manner is feasible this year,” said Becky Brooks, Executive Director of AWM/F.  “Therefore, we have made the decision to shift this year’s events to virtual experiences to ensure recognition of all winners in this very important year.”

The Gracie Awards recognize exemplary programming created by, for and about women in radio, television, and interactive media. Honorees are selected in national, local and student markets, including both commercial and non-commercial outlets. The full list of this year’s honorees can be found here.

AWMF extends a tremendous thank you to sponsors of the Gracies Awards, who are committed to supporting the future of women in media.  Along with Ziploc® Brand, the Diamond Sponsor of the 2020 Gracie Awards, this year’s sponsors include Crown Media, CBS, CNN, Katz Media Group, NCTA – The Internet and Television Association, Beasley Media Group and Cox Media Group.

About the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation: In 1960, the Alliance for Women in Media became the first professional broadcasting organization to establish an educational foundation. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (formerly known as The Foundation of American Women in Radio & Television) supports and promotes educational programs, charitable activities, public service campaigns and scholarships to benefit the public, the electronic media and allied fields. The Foundation also produces nationally acclaimed recognition programs, including the Gracie Awards®, a gala that honors exemplary programming created by, for or about women. 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 Twitter and Facebook. For more information about the Gracie Awards and to submit your entries, please visit www.allwomeninmedia.org/gracies.

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Catherine Combs

June, 2020

Uncategorized

Alliance for Women in Media Statement on the Homicide of George Floyd

By: Keisha Sutton-James, Chair, Alliance for Women in Media

The recent brutal murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery, combined with a global health pandemic that has had a disproportionate effect on communities of color, have laid bare the injustices and inequalities that continues to exist in America to this day.  Media outlets have offered around the clock coverage of this tragic moment in our country’s history, and of the massive protests that have gripped our nation.

On behalf of our leadership across the United States and Canada, the Alliance for Women in Media supports the human rights of all Americans, including Black Americans.  Black lives do matter.  As a Black woman whose grandfather, Percy Sutton, was a Freedom Rider, politician and activist before moving into media in order to effect change through the use of media, I have always been keenly aware of this fact. And now, this moment – a health crisis and the senseless murders of innocent people – has served to remind us as a nation of this fact.

We, the media, are the storytellers – whether through scripted or journalistic work.  We tell the stories of our humanity – trauma and triumph, denial and victory, betrayal and reconciliation.  We, the Alliance for Women in Media, stand with the protestors who are peacefully marching our country toward its founding ideals. We stand with the storytellers, journalists, producers and directors and particularly the women in these roles, who are sharing the truth of this moment for the world to see.  We applaud the bravery and tenacity displayed, some at the risk of their own safety.

The AWM will continue to recognize and celebrate the women who are frontline journalists and storytellers, women behind the cameras and microphones, and the true protagonists in our nation’s story: those who are leading our nation to its higher self.  We thank you for all that you do.

Keisha Sutton-James

Founder, Sutton Button Productions, LLC

Chair, Alliance for Women in Media

Please allow us to highlight a few of the important, ongoing conversations on this topic through pieces that reflect the work and voices of some of our Gracies honorees in radio, television and digital media.

Get informed – get involved. Read. Learn. Connect. Talk. Get involved locally or nationally.  Here are a few resources to help get you started:

Catherine Combs

May, 2020

Press Release

2020 Gracie Award Winners Press Release

45th ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS WINNERS ANNOUNCED BY THE ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION

This week, The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) announced the winners of the 45th annual Gracie Awards.  The list of honorees includes such esteemed honorees as Michelle Williams, Amy Poehler, Natasha Lyonne, Tamron Hall, Naomi Watts, Angela Yee, Norah O’Donnell, Niecy Nash, Stephanie Beatriz, and Soledad O’Brien, along with more than 100 of the most talented women in television, radio and digital media.

The Gracies recognize exemplary programming created by, for and about women in radio, television, and interactive media. Honorees are selected in national, local and student markets, including both commercial and non-commercial outlets. This year’s honorees represent the substance and ethos of women’s storytelling and journalism at its best.  Their work during this global state of affairs – full of innovation, courage and endurance – serves as inspiration today for the journalists of tomorrow.

Some of the honorees have recorded special messages of thanks and appreciation:

 Becky Brooks, Executive Director, The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation stated, “Our leadership is proud to honor the best of the best who embody the spirit and intention of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation’s Gracie Awards. We want to thank those on the front lines telling the important stories still impacting our world. It is our distinguished honor to recognize the reporters, hosts, producers and media executives who are working to ensure the public is informed. We know everyone in media has been impacted in some way, and we continue to salute this outstanding list of honorees for their award-winning passion, energy and perseverance.”

AWMF extends a tremendous thank you to sponsors of the Gracies, who are committed to supporting the future of women in media.  Along with Ziploc® Brand, the Diamond Sponsor of the 2020 Gracies Gala, this year’s sponsors include Crown Media, CBS, CNN, Katz Media Group, NCTA – The Internet and Television Association, Beasley Media Group and Cox Media Group.

TV NATIONAL HONOREES

60 Minutes: The Chibok Girls (60 Minutes)

CBS News

News Magazine

Abby McEnany (Work in Progress)

SHOWTIME

Actress in a Breakthrough Role

Alex Duda (The Kelly Clarkson Show)

NBCUniversal

Showrunner – Talk Show

Am I Next? Trans and Targeted

ABC NEWS Nightline

Hard News Feature

Angela Kang (The Walking Dead)

AMC

Showrunner- Scripted

Better Things

FX Networks

Comedy

BookTube

YouTube Originals

Non-Fiction Entertainment

Caroline Waterlow (Qualified)

ESPN Films

Producer- Documentary /Unscripted / Non-Fiction

Catherine Reitman (Workin’ Moms)

Wolf + Rabbit Entertainment (CBC/Netflix)

Actress in a Leading Role – Comedy or Musical

Catherine Reitman (Workin’ Moms)

Wolf + Rabbit Entertainment (CBC/Netflix)

Director – Comedy

Clarissa Ward (CNN International)

CNN International

Reporter/Correspondent

Danai Gurira (The Walking Dead)

AMC

Actress in a Leading Role – Drama

Fiona Shaw (Killing Eve)

BBC AMERICA

Actress in a Supporting Role – Drama

Francesca Gregorini (Killing Eve)

BBC AMERICA

Director – Scripted

Gender Discrimination in the FBI

NBC News Investigative Unit

Interview Feature

Grey’s Anatomy

ABC Studios

Drama- Grand Award

Izzie Pick Ibarra (THE MASKED SINGER)

FOX Broadcasting Company

Showrunner – Unscripted

Michelle Williams (Fosse/Verdon)

FX Networks

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

Mission Unstoppable

Produced by Litton Entertainment

Family Series

MSNBC 2019 Democratic Debate (Atlanta)

MSNBC

Special or Variety – Breakthrough

Naomi Watts (The Loudest Voice)

SHOWTIME

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

Natasha Lyonne, Leslye Headland, Amy Poehler (Russian Doll)

Universal Television

Producer- Entertainment

Nawal al-Maghafi (BBC Arabic)

BBC News

Investigative Feature

Niecy Nash (2019 BLACK GIRLS ROCK!)

BET Networks

On-Air Talent – Entertainment

Nightline

ABC NEWS

News Program

Pati Jinich (Pati’s Mexican Table)

Mexican Table LLC

On-Air Talent – Lifestyle

Patsy & Loretta

Lifetime

Made for Television Movie

Rising Stars: The Story of Muslim Girls Basketball

CBS Sports Network

Sports Feature

Sarah Fitzpatrick

NBC News Investigative Unit

Producer- News

Sedika Mojadidi (Doc World: Facing the Dragon)

WORLD Channel

Director – Unscripted

Sharyn Alfonsi (60 Minutes)

CBS News

On-Air Talent – News or News Magazine

Soledad O’Brien (American Injustice: A BET TOWN HALL)

BET Networks

On-Air Talent – News Special

Stephanie Beatriz (Brooklyn Nine-Nine)

Universal Television

Actress in a Supporting Role – Comedy or Musical

Superstore

Universal Television

Ensemble Cast

Surviving R. Kelly Producing Team (Surviving R. Kelly)

Lifetime

Producer- Documentary /Unscripted / Non-Fiction – Grand Award

Tamron Hall (TAMRON HALL)

Walt Disney Television

Talk Show – Entertainment

Teacher Surprise (TODAY)

TODAY/NBC News

Soft News Feature

The Gayle King Interview with R. Kelly (CBS News)

CBS News

Special or Variety

The Loudest Voice

SHOWTIME

Limited Series

This Changes Everything

STARZ

Documentary

Tracy Oliver (First Wives Club)

BET Networks

Writer

Women’s Wellness Disrupt-HERS with Maria Shriver (The 3rd Hour of TODAY)

NBC News

News Feature Series

RADIO NATIONAL HONOREES

Breaking the taboo around pelvic floor health (White Coat, Black Art)

CBC Radio

Public Affairs [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

CBC News:  The World at Six – Kurd Crisis Inside Syria

Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC)

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

Emily Hanford (At a Loss for Words)

American Public Media

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

Into the Thaw (The World)

PRX

Series [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

Latino USA (A Child Lost in Translation)

Futuro Media Group

Documentary [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

Periods! Why These 8th-Graders Aren’t Afraid To Talk About Them (Morning Edition)

NPR

Interview Feature [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

Sarah McCammon (“With Abortion Restrictions On The Rise, Some Women Induce Their Own.”)

NPR (National Public Radio)

News Feature [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

The Unpaid Cost of Elder Care

Reveal from The Center for Investigative Reporting and PRX

Investigative Feature [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]

Bevelations

SiriusXM

Talk Show [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Carla Ferrell (The Steve Harvey Morning Show)

Premiere Networks

Co-host [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Elaina Smith (Nights with Elaina (formerly NASH Nights Live))

Westwood One

Host/Personality [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Jayde Donovan (The Jayde Donovan Show)

Westwood One

Weekend Host / Personality [ Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial ]

Liana Huth (I’m Listening)

Entercom Communications Corp

Producer – Entertainment – Special [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Michelle Collins (The Michelle Collins Show)

SiriusXM

Interview Feature [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Michelle Franzen (The NICU Cuddler)

ABC NEWS

News Feature [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Michelle Parisi (The Weekend Top 30 & Remix Top 30)

Premiere Networks

Producer – Entertainment Music [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

Norah O’Donnell (CBS News on the Hour with Norah O’Donnell)

CBS News Radio

Outstanding News anchor [ Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial ]

Sophie Kamaruddin (Bloomberg Radio)

Bloomberg LP

Crisis Coverage [Radio – National Syndicated Commercial]

Trisha Yearwood: Every Girl at Christmas

ABC NEWS

Special [Radio – Nationally Syndicated Commercial]

INTERACTIVE MEDIA NATIONAL HONOREES

Angela Yee (Angela Yee’s Lip Service)

Angela Yee Inc.

Podcast – Entertainment

Bad Batch

Wondery

Podcast – Investigative News

Becky Quick (Squawk Pod)

CNBC Business News

Podcast Host – News

Children as passports, the phenomenon behind the humanitarian crisis on the border

Univision Noticias Digital

Website – News

Evil Eye

Audible, Inc.

Original Online Programming – Standalone Audio – Drama

Extreme violence is driving Salvadoran girls to kill themselves

Univision News Digital & TIME

Original Online Programming – Standalone Video Hard News

Ginger Zee, Inside Frozen ll

ABC NEWS

Podcast Host – Entertainment

Hanna Rosin (NPR’s Invisibilia®)

National Public Radio

Podcast Co-host/Ensemble

How to Sell Drugs (Legally)

Quartz

Original Online Programming – News

Kaila Strickland (The Comfy Closet)

The Comfy Closet

Blog

Kristyn Martin (Through Her Eyes & Baby Brain)

Yahoo News/Verizon Media Group

Online Producer

Kung Fu Nuns (Great Big Story)

Great Big Story

Original Online Programming – Standalone Video Lifestyle

Lucy Biggers (One Small Step)

NowThis

Online Video Host / Correspondent / Actress

Out Of The Woods

ESPN 30 for 30 Podcasts

Original Online Programming – Standalone Audio Sports

Paralyzed Marathon (Great Big Story)

Great Big Story

Original Online Programming –Documentary

Save Our Moms

MTV

Website – Information/Entertainment

Shine (Great Big Story)

Great Big Story

Original Online Programming – Video Series

The Cut On Tuesdays

Gimlet/Spotify/The Cut

Podcast – Lifestyle

The Pay Check

Bloomberg

Podcast – Educational Business

The Sterling Affairs

ESPN Films

Podcast – Investigative

TELEVISION LOCAL HONOREES

Ali Meyer (Baseline Breast Cancer)

KFOR-TV

Soft News Feature- Grand Award

Capital Gazette Survivors

WUSA9

Documentary

Colleen Marshall (NBC4 Columbus)

NBC4, WCMH-TV

Hard News Feature

Erin Fehlau (New Hampshire Chronicle – “Earning Their Wings: NH’s Women Aviators”)

WMUR-TV

News Magazine

Heather Fay Dawson (Women’s Work)

Connecticut Public

Director

Lesli Foster

WUSA9

On-Air Talent

Marcie Golgoski (Mothers Milk Bank of Florida)

WESH TV

Soft News Feature

Military Housing

WUSA9

Investigative Feature

Sarah Gahagan Lydick

WUSA9

Producer – Scripted / Edited / Live

Stephanie Jarvis, Mary Fecteau (IDEAS)

ideastream

Sports Feature

WUSA9 News at 11

WUSA9

News Program

TELEVISION STUDENT HONOREES

Alicia Cherem and Heather Kim (ViewFinder: Daily Crisis Farm)

University of Maryland, College Park

Documentary

Bryanna Crouch (KUJH News)

University of Kansas

Producer

Cameron Doney (CNS-TV (Capital News Service))

University of Maryland, College Park

Soft News Feature

Cierra Ysasaga (Newsline)

Brigham Young University

Director

Danielle Hallows (Newsline)

Brigham Young University

On-Air Talent

Isabela Erekson (Newsline)

Brigham Young University

Hard News Feature

RADIO LOCAL HONOREES

Amy Eddings (Morning Edition)

ideastream

Host/Anchor [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

Beautiful Mess (CBC Radio Saskatchewan)

Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC)

Documentary [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

El Paso Coverage

The Texas Newsroom

Crisis Coverage [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

In Memoir, Mother And Trans Son ‘Pick Up The Pieces’ Of Relationship (Where We Live)

Connecticut Public Radio

Talk Show [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

Inflection Point with Lauren Schiller

KALW 91.7FM, San Francisco and PRX

Interview Feature [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

Jenny Brundin (Teens Under Stress)

Colorado Public Radio

News Feature [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

Lauren Terrazas (‘Miss Emma’ Saved Her Brewery And Left A Legacy For All Of San Antonio)

Texas Public Radio

Portrait/Biography [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

Linda Paul (Want To Combat Climate Change? Get Out and Plant A Tree)

WBEZ/ Chicago Public Media

Producer [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

Deborah Wang (Parenting Mental Health)

KUOW Puget Sound Public Radio

Reporter/Correspondent [Radio – Non-Commercial Local]

Yasmeen Khan (WNYC News)

New York Public Radio

Series [Radio Non – Commercial Local]

“I’m Listening”: Erasing the Shame and Blame Over Mental Health In Depth

KCBS Radio (Entercom)

Public Affairs [Radio – Local]

A Healing Delivery (Daily News)

KCBS Radio (Entercom)

Soft News Feature [Radio – Local]

Angela Martinez (The Angie Martinez Show)

iheartmedia (WWPR)

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

Brigitte Quinn (Morning Drive Anchor)

Entercom Radio – 1010 WINS

Outstanding News Anchor [ Radio – Local]

Carla Rea (The Mike and Carla Morning Show)

Beasley Media Group

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

Chris Rollins (Chris Rollins)

Townsquare Media/94.5 PST

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

Cooper Lawrence (WOR Tonight)

iHeartMedia (WOR NY)

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

Deborah Honeycutt (Jim, Deb & Kevin)

CUMULUS MEDIA BROADCASTING

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

Exceptional Women: “Rise Up”

Entercom Boston

Interview Feature [Radio – Local]

Garcia – Torres Fundraiser

KTMY-FM (United States of America)

Public Service Announcement [Radio – Local]

Heather Hunter (Mornings on the Mall)

CUMULUS MEDIA BROADCASTING

Producer – News Talk [Radio – Local]

Jenn Hobby (Jenn & Friends Star 94.1 Atlanta)

Entercom Atlanta

Host Morning Drive- Large/Major Market [Radio – Local]

Julie Rose (Top of Mind w/ Julie Rose)

BYU Radio

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

Kathryn Barnes (Santa Barbara Morning Edition/All Things Considered)

KCRW

Producer – Noncommercial [Radio – Local]

Katie Neal (Middays on New York’s Country 94.7)

Entercom New York

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

Mary Walter (Mary Walter WMAL)

WMAL

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

Meghan Lane (95.1 WAPE’s The Big Ape Morning Mess)

Cox Media Group

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

Nancy Wilson (WHKO FM)

Cox Media Group

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

Rebekah Maroun (Bex) (Matty In The Morning)

iheartmedia

Producer – Commercial [Radio – Local]

Shannon Farren (Gary and Shannon Show)

iHeartMedia

Crisis Coverage/Breaking News [Radio – Local]

Shannon Farren (Gary and Shannon Show)

iHeartMedia

Talk Show [Radio – Local]

Starving for Perfection

WTOP-FM

Hard News Feature [Radio – Local]

RADIO LOCAL STUDENT HONOREES

Brittany McGowan (Women Surfers Fundraise In Honor Of Feamle Surfing Icon)

Radio Hofstra University – WRHU FM / WRHU.org

Host/Personality

Eli Finkelson (A League of Our Own – Single Moms Share & Inspire)

Radio Hofstra University – WRHU FM / WRHU.org

Talk Show

Julia Presti (A League of Our Own – Fearless Female Firefighters)

Radio Hofstra University – WRHU FM / WRHU.org

Public Affairs

Karina Gonzalez (KUNR Public Radio & Noticiero Móvil)

University of Nevada, Reno

Interview Feature

Madison Bristowe (Cityscape:Back to the Garden, Remembering Woodstock)

WFUV / Fordham University

Producer

Marian Mohamed (The barrier between us is breaking: How politics brought my mom and me closer)

KUOW Puget Sound Public Radio

News Feature

INTERACTIVE MEDIA STUDENT HONOREES

Eliot Schiaparelli (Around My Block)

WFUV / Fordham University

Original Online Programming

Kacie Candela (Prickly Politics: Women in the Room)

WFUV / Fordham University

Podcast

Celebration details for this year’s winners will be announced soon.

About The Gracie Awards

The Gracies 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.

# # #

Catherine Combs

April, 2020

Uncategorized

Coronavirus and the Media – Mike McVay

Coronavirus and the Media Mike McVay

The Coronavirus has changed how we are living our lives at this moment in time. Social distancing, quarantining, sheltering … are all words that have become a way for us to describe our lives. Some of us are wearing masks and gloves when we must go out in public. Some never go out in public, while others continue to question if the restrictions on our lives isn’t too much.

How audiences are using media, and when they’re using it, has also changed. Morning and Afternoon commute times are non-existent. Even those who work from home are awaking later and they wrap-up work in time for dinner. Few people have in-home radios and much listening is being done on smart speakers, streaming on-line via laptops, apps or phones, and some listeners will time-shift their radio listening by using the on-demand listening that a radio show on podcast allows.

Many of us are working from home. Video conferencing is becoming a way of life for work and family connectivity. A large number of our fellow citizens are unemployed or on furlough. They’re suffering, dealing with anxiety, fear and the stress of not knowing what the future holds for them or for all of us.

Alcoholism, Drug Addiction, Spousal Abuse and Domestic Violence are all magnified in times of stress and panic. Suicide levels are predicted to increase. Recognize our first responders in the health sector as well as fire, police and military. Acknowledge them by name. Salute and honor them. Thank them.

There is the possibility that some of us, as members of media, have been exaggerating its seriousness while others have not been taking it seriously enough. We need to be factual in the information we deliver. We need to pay attention to the doctors and scientists and not politicians. Politicizing this pandemic has no purpose in serving your community.

We, as members of media, have to be sensitive to the concern of the audience. Our responsibility is to serve the community and provide them with information that can be useful to them. Stations are airing regular updates. Some are breaking away for news reports, which was not previously a part of their scheduled programming.  

One of my concerns is that the contradictory opinions of commentators, especially those on TV and on Network Radio, is destroying what little credibility was left for electronic media news operations. Mainly because some of them present themselves to be news reporters or news journalists. The content of a news report, should be factual and focused on what is important to the target audience. The content of a commentator or talk host should be labeled as commentary.  There is absolutely nothing improper about a commentator taking a stance and presenting a position that may include political views and editorial commentary. Don’t present it as news. It is commentary.

Real people have died and are dying. Real people are becoming sick, or will become sick, and some of those who are yet to be inflicted will die. Someone recently commented to me “fewer have died than what was predicted.” That doesn’t mean that we didn’t need to take steps to protect our citizenry. It means that the steps we have taken, and are still taking, are working.

I remember when I was a small child, just about 10, my father and I would watch the nightly news on TV. In those days, the Vietnam War was in full swing and the evening news would include a daily death toll of Americans who lost their lives. One evening the number was single digits. I said aloud “that’s not very many.” My father replied “unless its your son that died.” That’s how I feel when I hear someone note that the death toll for Coronavirus, while high, is less than what was predicted to happen by this time.

This story is meant to underscore that you should be sensitive to the loss of familial lives that many are enduring. It’s time for a kinder, gentler world. It should be reflected in what you say and how you deliver content on-air.

Be factual. Don’t politicize. Don’t exaggerate or dismiss the information that is being delivered to us from recognized credible medical experts who are at the center of the research that’s being done to find a vaccine and a cure for COVD-19.

Those shows that play games and air bits that make light of someone’s lack of intelligence, should be reconsidered, much like the sometimes-collegial humor that makes fun of an on-air partner. Don’t be mean. Avoid sounding mean spirited. Your credibility, as an air talent, will be magnified by being understanding of the less fortunate. Don’t make every story of hardship about you. Acknowledge how blessed you are to be working. Realize that many aren’t as lucky as you are.

There are four faces of Coverage of the Coronavirus. Awareness, Acceptance, Encouragement and Memory.  

Awareness was when we first heard of the virus. It ramped up significantly before we were able to grasp and understand that this was unlike anything that we had faced in our lives.

Acceptance is when we acknowledged that the pandemic was real, that we would all know individuals who would be infected with this virus, and that some would die.

Encouragement is what we have to do for our audiences. Encourage them that we will get through this pandemic. Share with them things that they can do while sheltering. Look for positive, but factual, news to report to the audience. The peak having been reached in some communities. A decline in deaths. Talk of sports activities being rescheduled. It gives us all an “end point” to look forward to.

Memory is what we hope is ahead of us. Remembering what it was like when we were in lockdown. What good came from it, besides health, and what lessons can we learn from it?

There are some artists and production houses working on creating a musical tribute to the heroes of the pandemic and others working on an event to raise funds for the memory of this event. Don’t be gratuitous and, if you’re an artist, don’t be opportunistic by taking advantage of this crisis to personally benefit.  

We need to plan for what happens when we’re allowed to come back to the “outside world.” Party Centers, normally only open during weekends, will be booked for events seven days a week. There will be “make-ups” for lots of events that had been postponed. Wedding Receptions, Baby Showers, Graduations, Birthday Parties, Celebrations of Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah, Baptisms, Funerals or Celebrations of Life.

Provide guidance on where your listeners can find information on filing for unemployment. Where can individuals go to find out their options to refinance their homes or delay payments. What can be done to assist small businesses to stay in business during this time? How will the government’s COVID-19 recovery plans help everyone from individuals to big business? Surviving is what’s most important to all of us, at this moment, and will be important to our recovery.

Benztown and Emmis have worked together to create a short series of updates named Corona411. Westwood One is developing information for stations to use. Some stations will create their own info pieces. These are not promotional messages. They shouldn’t sound like a promo or a sweeper. These are elements of information that carry weight. They should sound special and unique.

https://tunein.com/podcasts/News–Politics-Podcasts/Coronavirus-411-alerts-updates-and-information-p1289595/

We should be messaging that this is not a time to make jokes about the outbreak. It isn’t a time to present tongue-in-cheek contests that are about this health crisis. It’s also not a time to panic our listeners by being anything more than factual. It is a time to share positive news, too. Give the audience a reason to smile.

It may be months and months before there is a vaccination that will prevent this virus from infecting our listeners. We’re all hoping that we’ll see life start to get back to normal, soon. However, we’ve not yet seen the crest of the wave of this illness in a total fashion for the United States. We have to help the world live a normal life.

Many air-talents are broadcasting remotely. Encourage them to mention that fact on-air. How is working from home impacting their lives? How are they occupying their days and the days of their family members? The purpose of such talk is not to make it about them, but to create the feeling of community. “We’re all in this together. We’re going to get through this.”

Update your imaging. Eliminate the “Listen at Work” liners. Come up with imaging that reinforces listening “Listen while you work, no matter where and when you work, whether at home or on-site.”

Look for WOW moments to unite your audience. It could be playing the National Anthem daily at 12:00pm to salute the men and women who are fighting on the frontline of the Coronavirus. It could be creating a consistent moment to underscore that we’re all in this together. Like playing Queen’s song “We Will Rock You” at 6:00pm nightly … as some radio stations are doing. Honor your hometown heroes while giving the rest of us hope.

Don’t talk about what you’re doing on-air as if it is work. It isn’t “work” compared to what the majority of your audience considers to be work. Embrace your audience and relate to them by acknowledging how tough these times are for them.

———————————————————————————————————–

Mike McVay is President of McVay Media Consulting. A media firm that focuses on content creation, coaching on-air personalities, marketing strategy, audience development and growth, and advises all platforms for audio companies. www.mcvaymedia.com

Catherine Combs

December, 2019

Uncategorized

The Year in Review

By Becky Brooks, AWM/F Executive Director

At the end of each year, many of us stop to take time to reflect on what we have seen, experienced and learned, and then, hopefully, how to take that into the next year. It is often a time to also consider those historical moments that emerge, and in the case of 2019, it was significant. And each of you, the community of the Alliance for Women in Media (AWM), provide your own unique window for the world to see, experience and learn.

Increasingly, watching television, listening to the radio or to a podcast can feel overwhelming with divisiveness and endless opinions on just about every topic. Amid hearing those stories – a common theme that emerged at AWM in 2019 – is courage.

Courage was prominently in the background of the magnificent storytelling we experienced while reviewing content for the 2019 Gracies Awards. Just a few examples were Noor Tagouri’s podcast series Sold in America that researched the sex trade industry from every angle; Leah Remini executive producing and hosting a program, Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath that revealed the truths of a religion in which she previously participated; Madison Lawson, a student from the University of Missouri, telling her story of living with a disability (and flying to New York to accept the award!) and LaDona Harvey on iHeart’s AM 600 KOGO reminding us in her interview, “I am NOT grateful, I am qualified”.

Each of these Gracie winners had the courage to tell a story. And many times, through courage also comes hope. Just this year: A record number of women were installed in congress; the largest class of African American women graduated from West Point; an entire community in Texas showed up to a funeral to support a man who lost his wife in a mass shooting so that he wasn’t alone; a group of women in Iran seeing their first soccer game from the stands, an activity that was once forbidden; and, a child hosting a hot chocolate stand to pay for a classmates’ lunch at school. That – is hope.

One of our favorite stories at AWM is the courage it took for a group of women in the 1950’s to form a group called the American Women in Radio & Television – now known as the Alliance for Women in Media. They created the path for the community we have today, and our current leadership continues to forge that path.

AWM has given nearly $20,000 in scholarships, created an online community forum for our members, interviewed more women (and men!) in media to relaunch our Gracie Interview Series to provide insight and education and heard first-hand the harrowing experience of Elizabeth Smart during her keynote at the Gracies Leadership Awards where we also heard from six inspiring and fearless leaders in our industry about their career journeys.

On a personal level, these stories give me hope and courage for the future. As my husband and I raise two kids who are seeing and experiencing life in a different way than we did – we can tell them the stories you have the courage to tell and encourage them to do the same. We have friends who have experienced unimaginable health scares and loss – yet our personal community rallies to support one another – just as we see happening in communities across the country.

AWM is committed to do even more in 2020. We will recognize story tellers, bring communities together through our membership and events and connect women (and men) in radio, television and digital medias who may not otherwise have known one another. We ask you to join AWM, submit your content for Gracies consideration, judge Gracie Awards, attend an event – stay connected.

Our challenge to you in the new year is to continue telling important stories and to give hope.

Cheers to 2020!

Catherine Combs

October, 2019

Uncategorized

Vanessa Arredondo, Ford Emerging Voices Scholarship Recipient

Vanessa Arredondo’s Scholarship-Winning Essay

I walked into the newsroom fifteen minutes after midnight, late, my apology ready at the lips. The lights were on; reporters and editors were frantically running around, yelling commands and information. The newsroom, that was usually quiet until reporters started trickling in at 3 a.m., was buzzing with excitement.

I had just walked into my ABC 7 Early Morning News internship half an hour after news broke of a mass shooting at the Thousand Oaks Borderline Bar & Grill.

As a student journalist, this incident has been the most significant media event in my life, because it is the first national breaking news story in which I was part of the news-gathering process, working alongside writers, editors and reporters. It provided me with a chance to put my knowledge to the test in a high-pressure situation, dealing with an incredibly sensitive subject. It also made me seriously consider how this career path can weigh on one’s mental and emotional well-being.

That night, I answered phone calls, monitored social media for official updates, watched the Air 7 helicopter feed in police rescue efforts, and contacted witnesses and families of victims to give us details about the incident. I tried my best to be sensitive, thanking people for speaking with me and wishing them well.

Thousand Oaks was about a half hour away. It was a city that people didn’t know about unless they had connections to the San Fernando Valley. To us, it was an affluent neighborhood, quiet and safe. Now it has become known for this.

My shift ended at 8 a.m., and I was off until Tuesday. I had a lot of time to reflect during that weekend, and I wondered: How do journalists do this every day? How can they see so much tragedy and continue with this career path?

The shooting in Thousand Oaks made me realize that anything can happen anywhere. For a while, I didn’t leave the safety of my home. I thought about the sarcastic mantra “If it bleeds, it leads,” and was reminded of the freeway accidents we covered and the gruesome caught-on-video attacks that we pulled from the internet.

I spoke to journalists and professors about covering tragedy, and many told me they had to desensitize themselves early in their careers. Some had to step away from their jobs for a period of time after a particularly harrowing event.

Because of this incident, I reflected on what measures I would take to care for my emotional and mental needs. It made me realize that sensitivity is not antithetical to good journalism. I saw that people want and need to be heard, and journalists can act as facilitators to accomplish that.

As I continue my practice as a reporter for UC Berkeley’s student newspaper the Daily Californian, I find myself gravitating toward stories that underscore issues in communities. I would like for my journalism to serve as a platform for those who are underserved and struggling, for those who aren’t being heard. 

Catherine Combs

September, 2019

Press Release

Elizabeth Smart to Keynote the Gracies Leadership Awards Presented by the Alliance for Women in Media

The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) is pleased to announce  Elizabeth Smart, author, founder of the “Elizabeth Smart Foundation” and children’s advocate, will serve as keynote at the Gracies Leadership Awards on Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019, at The Plaza Hotel, New York City.  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 has a strong history of supporting and celebrating women in media.  I am honored to be a part of an event that aims to inspire a new generation of trailblazers,” said Elizabeth Smart, past Gracie winner and keynote speaker for the event.

Elizabeth Smart is best known for her abduction in 2002 and has since become the founder of the “Elizabeth Smart Foundation” and an advocate for change related to child abduction, recovery programs, and National legislation.  She is also the author of the New York Times best-selling book “My Story”, “You’re Not Alone: The Journey From Abduction to Empowerment” and “Where There’s Hope.”   

“The Alliance for Women in Media is proud to honor women for their extraordinary accomplishments,” said Becky Brooks, executive director, AWM/F. “It is our honor to have Elizabeth Smart, a past Gracie winner, as this year’s keynote speaker, as her address will surely inspire and empower all in attendance.”   

Tickets are available for AWM members at a rate of $250 and for non-members at a rate of $350. A special student rate of $100 is available for undergraduate students with proof of enrollment. Students may also apply for a sponsored ticket made available through the CBS Fellowship.

For table sales with premium seating or additional support opportunities, contact Alliance for Women in Media Executive Director Becky Brooks at becky.brooks@allwomeninmedia.org.

For more information on this event or to reserve your seat, visit https://allwomeninmedia.org/events/gracies-leadership-award/.

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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.

Catherine Combs

August, 2019

Uncategorized

Tracey Quezada’s Winning Entry for the 2019 Ford “Empowering America” Scholarship

Tracey Quezada, the winner of the 2019 Ford “Empowering America” Scholarship, submitted this video profiling Danielle Castro, a transgender, Latina activist. Tracey is pursuing a Masters in Journalism at UC Berkeley.

Tracey Quezada’s Winning Entry

Catherine Combs

August, 2019

Uncategorized

(Dis)ability is Not Inability

By Julia Morrison, 2019 Loreen Arbus Foundation & AWMF Scholarship Winner

If all determination is through negation, then disability is not inability, nor is it a lack of strength, desire or resolve. (Dis)ability is an opportunity to explore what it means to be a human being in all of our infinite glory. The Latin prefix dis- means ‘apart’; disability as apart from ability, but not as mutually exclusive. What may constrain a person in one area may liberate them in another through the gift of profound insight. Some of humanity’s most important discoveries were born from the minds of those who struggled with disabilities, people whose experience of time & the universe were unlike the experiences of others. Among those who have contributed groundbreaking insight to humankind include dyslexic Albert Einstein, who gave us the theory of relativity; theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking, bound to a wheelchair & dependent on a computerized voice, transported us to other dimensions of space-time with a theory of cosmology; A Beautiful Mind mathematician John Nash Jr closed gaps in game theory with his internal life rich with numbers & schizophrenic characters; Thomas Edison, America’s greatest inventor of the motion picture camera, electric light bulb & more, made use of a hearing aid; & life-long disability advocate Helen Keller, who touched the lives of millions with her unparalleled vision for peace & radical progress even though she couldn’t see or hear a thing. I believe that Ability is a philosophy of life rooted in the spirit of the scientific method, for better it is to try, fail & try again, then never to have tried at all.

Language is the key, but where is the door? The words we choose to define our lives, ourselves, & each other are inextricably tied to the outcomes we receive. Words take shape, giving form to ideas like seeds give sprout to trees in an old growth forest. My speech impediment led me to study my voice & language, practices that serve me well as the artist, actress & writer I am. I may not have pronounced clearly my ‘R’s’ until the age of thirteen, but that didn’t stop me from speaking poetry as a child or my truth loud enough to send the man who molested me years earlier to prison in third grade – the same year I started speech therapy. To some, I could have been from New England, while others insisted I spoke like a baby. Random kids I’d never seen or met before would demand I entertain them a few sentences as I’d try to pass in the hallway. They’d sneak in one more laugh, meanwhile I’d find another time & place pretending to be dinosaurs with a few friends on the school’s front lawn. But even my best friends couldn’t resist the temptation to interrupt me mid-sentence to showcase their best rendition of “I park my car in Harvard yard” & wait for me to say it in turn. “C’mon, say it: I pahk my cah in Hahvahd yahd”, they’d push until I’d cave like the prehistoric bones in my velociraptor body.

The year preceding my graduation from speech therapy was wild: my brother & I were homeless, Columbine happened, Clinton faced impeachment & my Grandma died while the whole world watched, anxious with anticipation as Y2K came & never showed up. But I was used to things & people not showing up by then. As someone who overcame my impediment later in life & a child of foster care, I was surprised to learn that 70% of children in the foster system struggle with an impediment or disability. I am beyond grateful for my school for identifying my speech impediment & getting me the therapy I needed. I even looked forward to the hour I’d spend every Friday during my Physical Education class working on my speech while my peers ran a mile around the racetrack. Instead I got to be inside perusing images, shapes, colors, & syllables while practicing my ‘R’ sound in a small room wedged between the main office & the boys’ bath woom – excuse me: room. To this day I slip up in speech when I’m anxious, but my therapist taught me there is nothing we cannot achieve when we take our time & articulate our target outcome into a series of clear, identifiable steps. Figuring out how different parts of my tongue fit into the corners of my upper cleft & met my individual teeth was like finding a whole new landscape within myself – a body map defined yet free from border. In facing my struggle, I discovered new parts of my Self.

I believe in the power of film to ignite social change, catalyze catharsis for self-growth & most importantly: heal. I hope to use my story to help people. Music, myth & metaphor are the three most powerful signatures in the world, which is why I cherish the art of cinema. I aim to maximize my focus over these next few years in my educational career so I may pay this debt forward in the aspiration of helping others. My next great challenge is to honor the girl I raised to turn the page & deliver her story to the big screen. As an actress, artist, & activist, I can appreciate that some of the greatest moments in our lives have the power to render us disabled: the butterfly in our stomach that takes our breath away, the cries of a man as he screams “I can’t breathe’ that render us speechless, or the depressive spell that seeps into every facet of our lives & cripples our spirit. Whether it be physical, that moment we jumped & took a risk, or something intangible, extreme vulnerability harbors an ancient wealth, 1 a secret gem unique to each individual that only she can mine, for in the struggle of its discovery holds the truth behind what makes the human spirit the most dynamic force in the world, as the butterfly strengthens its wings breaking from its cocoon to fly.

On my last day in speech therapy, my therapist paused, expressing concern about my ‘-ing’ sound. I let out a sigh resounding throughout the hallway, closing the door behind me as she pulled out a deck of cards I’d never seen before. I read them off for her one at a time:

Hoping.

Working.

Wishing.

Laughing.

Crying.

Dreaming.

Praying.

Loving.

Falling.

Trying.

“How’s that,” I begged her, “is that good enough?”

She smiled & said, “You’re good to go”.

Catherine Combs

July, 2019

Press Release

2019 Gracies Luncheon Post-Event Release

THE ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION
SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETES 44th ANNUAL GRACIES LUNCHEON

Erin Moriarty Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award, 3rd Hour of TODAY’s Sheinelle Jones Hosted and Pop Artist Brynn Elliott Performed at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City

June 26, 2019 (New York City) – The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) presented the 44th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City on June 26. Host Sheinelle Jones, co-host of “3rd Hour of TODAY and co-anchor of NBC News’ “Weekend TODAY led the program alongside presenters Angela Yee from “The Breakfast Club”; supermodel, TV personality and podcast host Emme; Roula Christie of “The Roula and Ryan Show” on KRBE; and Duarte Geraldino from Al Jazeera Digital and “PBS NewsHour.” 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 TV, radio and interactive media.

Highlights from the show included:

  • AWMF Board Chair and Katz Radio Group President Christine Travaglini opened the Luncheon. After welcoming the record-breaking crowd, she introduced AWM Board Treasurer and Gracies Co-Chair Heather Cohen, executive vice president of The Weiss Agency.
  • Lifetime Achievement Honoree Erin Moriarty, correspondent for “48 Hours”, was presented her award by Susan Zirinsky, president of CBS News, who said, “She has been producing impactful content for CBS News for three decades.  Erin, you are a force of nature.  I can think of no better honoree for this Lifetime Achievement Award.  Erin is relentless, authentic, a great person and a damn good reporter. She represents the very best of CBS News.”  Erin Moriarty, while accepting the award, said, “You hear Lifetime Achievement, and I think a lot of us think of retirement and receiving it when you’re heading out the door, but really I see that it takes a lifetime to make a difference.  Our 48 Hours team is making an impact.”
  • Sheinelle Jones, co-host of the “3rd Hour of TODAY”, hosted the awards.  When presenting the awards for outstanding work in Local Market Television, Jones said, “It is my hope that I can inspire and reassure you that – even when it doesn’t feel like it – our work is making a difference.”
  • Pop Singer Brynn Elliott performed “Might Not Like Me” along with her new single “Letter 2 a Girl.”  Brynn said, “I have been blessed with a really strong mother, and this has inspired me to write songs to empower women.”
  • Presenter Angela Yee, who won a National Gracie Award for Outstanding Host/Personality this year, said, “I won a Gracie Award, and it was one of the greatest honors.  I am honored to be here with such strong women and the men who support us.”
  • Presenter Duarte Geraldino from Al Jazeera Digital said, “When I was first starting in the industry, I was told, ‘You need to find a mentor.  A man who knows the ropes.’  I found some men to look up to, but for the most part, my mentors have been women.”

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.

Photos from the 44th Annual Gracies Luncheon may be viewed at the following link: https://mm.gettyimages.com/mm/nicePath/gyipa_public?nav=pr648338397  

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 the Emma Bowen Foundation, NCTA, NAB and other 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.

Sponsors of The Gracies Luncheon include: CBS, Beasley Media Group, Cox Media Group, Cumulus, Discovery, Entercom, Hofstra University, iHeartMedia, Katz Media Group, Lerman Senter, NAB, NBC, NCTA – the Internet & Television Association, Sinclair, SiriusXM, TEGNA, Townsquare and vCreative.

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

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Catherine Combs

June, 2019

Uncategorized

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES CBS NEWS’ ERIN MORIARTY AS LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT HONOREE FOR 44th ANNUAL GRACIES LUNCHEON

TODAY’s Sheinelle Jones to Host and Pop Artist Brynn Elliott to Perform
on June 26 at Cipriani 42nd Street

The leadership of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) announces that Erin Moriarty, “48 Hours correspondent, will be honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 44th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon to be presented to her by Susan Zirinsky, president and senior executive producer, CBS News. Hosting the luncheon will be another television news veteran, Sheinelle Jones, co-anchor of “Weekend TODAY and co-host of the “3rd Hour of TODAY.” The annual Gracies Luncheon set for June 26 at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City honors individual achievement and outstanding programming at the local level for television and radio, public radio and students in television, radio and interactive media.

The Gracie Awards recognize exemplary content created by, for and about women in all facets of media and entertainment. Given this year to Moriarty, who has covered some of the biggest crime and justice stories for three decades for CBS News, the Gracies Lifetime Achievement Award honors a woman in media who exemplifies and embodies the essence of the iconic trailblazer, the late Gracie Allen, the namesake of The Gracie Awards.

“The Gracie Awards celebrate the bravery of storytellers to share relevant, compelling content while pushing boundaries to create an environment of equality,” said AWM/F Chair Christine Travaglini, President, Katz Radio Group. AWM/F Executive Director Becky Brooks added, “Throughout her 40-year journalism career, Erin Moriarty’s well-researched, diligent approach to covering stories about crime and justice, about consumer issues and much more has been consistent and illustrates why she is so worthy of this Lifetime Achievement Award.  Through the Gracies, we are incredibly proud to honor and celebrate outstanding talent and content by, for and about women.”

Highlights of Moriarty’s award-winning career include:

  • Moriarty earned a law degree from Ohio State University in 1977.
  • In 1986, Moriarty began her career at CBS News as a consumer correspondent for “CBS This Morning” and “CBS Evening News with Dan Rather.”
  • She has served as correspondent on CBS News’ “48 Hours” since 1990.
  • She also reports for “CBS Sunday Morning.”
  • A three-time Gracie Award winner, she has also won nine Emmy Awards.

Due to her training as a lawyer, Moriarty has covered some of the most important social and legal issues in the last three decades, including cold cases, DNA testing of evidence in death-row cases, wrongful convictions and spousal abuse.  She was also part of the team that covered the Newtown, Conn. elementary school shooting, which earned CBS News a DuPont-Columbia award. 

“This is an incredible honor to receive this Gracie from the Alliance for Women in Media,” said Erin Moriarty. “It is truly humbling to be recognized with this award and to join the list of notable women who have come before me. It is because of this organization that I, and so many others, have flourished in our profession.”

Gracies Luncheon host Sheinelle Jones is a co-anchor of NBC News’ “Weekend TODAY, a co-host of “3rd Hour of TODAY and she hosts “TODAY’s” digital series, “Through Mom’s Eyeswhileco-hosting “Off the Rails”, a Sirius XM radio show with NBC’s Al Roker and Dylan Dreyer.  Jones joined “TODAY” in 2014 and has since covered breaking news events and human-interest stories.  Prior to joining “TODAY”, she served as co-host of FOX’s “Good Day Philadelphia.”

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

Performing at the Luncheon will be singer-songwriter Brynn Elliott.  In the past few years, Elliott has signed with Atlantic Records, graduated from Harvard University and played over 250 shows.  Brynn has performed on the “TODAY” show, MTV’s “TRL”, and “Live with Kelly and Ryan” and has spent the last year touring with artists such as Why Don’t We and AJ Mitchell. 

The National Gracie Award honorees were recognized at the Gracies Gala, May 21, 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 2019 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 the Emma Bowen Foundation, NCTA, NAB and other 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 Beasley Media Group, CBS Corporation, Cox Media Group, Cumulus Media, Discovery, Inc., Entercom, Hofstra, iHeartMedia, Inc., Katz Media Group, Lerman Senter, NAB, NBC, NCTA – The Internet and Television Association, Sinclair Broadcast Group, Tegna, Townsquare Media, and vCreative.

Catherine Combs

May, 2019

Uncategorized

The Gracie Awards Livestream

Click on the link below to tune in to the fun:
https://livestream.com/accounts/28492473/events/8689915

Catherine Combs

April, 2019

Uncategorized

Natalie Edelstein, 2018 Ford “Emerging Voices” Scholarship Recipient

For my final blog post for the Alliance for Women in Media, I wanted to express my gratitude for the organization and all that it does to advance diversity and inclusion in the industry.

Formed in 1951, the organization was known as the American Women in Radio and Television and was a part of the women’s division of the National Association of Broadcasters. That same year, Marguerite Higgins became the first woman to win a Pulitzer Prize for International Reporting. It was a historic time for women in the industry, however women were not being recognized to the same degree as their male colleagues, nor did they have the same professional opportunities.

As time went on, the Alliance for Women in Media continued to develop new ways to advance opportunities for women. In 1960 the alliance became the first professional broadcasting organization to establish an educational foundation, and in 1975, they began an annual award program recognizing the people in the media that represented the changing roles, issues, and concerns of women. Around that time Cosmopolitan Magazine relaunched as a magazine for women with Helen Gurley Brown as its first Editor in Chief and a few years later, Barbara Walters became the first female news anchor on network television. In 1978 Boylan et al v. The New York Times became a landmark case for female journalists. The ruling allowed women the same promotion opportunities as men as well as equal pay.

Despite these groundbreaking moments, there is still work for the Alliance to do. A report from the United Nations, that utilize research spanning more than 100 countries, found that 46% of news stories, in print and on radio and television, uphold gender stereotypes, while only 6% highlight gender equality. According to another global study spanning 522 news media organizations, behind the scenes, men still occupy 73% of top media management positions.  Additionally, while women represent half of the world’s population, less than one third of all speaking characters in film are female.

From 1951 to today, the work the Alliance for Women in Media does is vitally important to the longevity of the media industry. Their scholarships support young women across the industry at schools all over the nation in their pursuit of journalism, communication, film and other degrees. The Gracie Awards allow those who work tirelessly to better the industry a moment of recognition and the programming and events the Alliance works on allows women to network and learn from experts in the industry.

I feel immensely grateful to have been selected to represent the Alliance this year. The scholarship I received has helped me pursue my MA in Strategic Communication and better understand the media landscape and the issues facing the industry today. I look forward to participating in events with the Alliance for Women in Media long after my scholarship comes to an end.

Catherine Combs

April, 2019

Uncategorized

44th ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS WINNERS ANNOUNCED BY THE ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION

SANDRA OH, TISHA THOMPSON, RACHEL MADDOW, CONNIE BRITTON, ELIZABETH PERKINS, PATRICIA ARQUETTE,
AND LEAH REMINI AMONG HONOREES; 

 CEREMONY TO TAKE PLACE MAY 21 IN LOS ANGELES

Local and Student Award Winners to be Honored at the Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 26 in New York City Honored at the Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 26 in New York City

LOS ANGELES (April 16, 2019) – The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) announced the winners of the 44th annual Gracie Awards to take place May 21 at the Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles. The event will recognize such esteemed honorees as Sandra Oh, Tisha Thompson, Rachel Maddow, Connie Britton, Elizabeth Perkins, Patricia Arquette, Leah Remini, Robin Roberts, Laura Lynch, Rachel Bloom, Angela Yee, Maura Tierney, Hoda Kotb and Savannah Guthrie, along with some of the most talented women in television, radio and digital media. Local and student award winners will be recognized at the Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 26 at Cipriani in New York City.

Becky Brooks, Executive Director, Alliance for Women in Media Foundation stated, “Our leadership is proud to honor the best of the best who embody the spirit and intention of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation’s Gracie Awards.” Christine Travaglini, President, Katz Radio Group and Chair of the Board of Directors continued, “In the more than four decades since the inception of the Gracie Awards – what stands out in 2019 is bravery. The courage of storytellers to share poignant, relevant and compelling content. This will be a year of true celebration.”

The Gracies recognize exemplary programming created by, for and about women in radio, television, cable and interactive media. Honorees are selected in national, local and student markets, including both commercial and non-commercial outlets.

In the fourth 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 opportunity for future generations.

Sponsors of The Gracies include Ford Motor Company, Crown Media Group, CNN, CBS Corporation, Discovery, Inc., NCTA – The Internet and Television Association, NPR, Premiere Networks, SiriusXM, Katz Media Group, Sun Broadcast Group, Beasley Media Group, Cox Media Group, vCreative, Entercom and Hofstra University.

To see the full list of winners, visit
https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/2019-gracie-winners/ .

Catherine Combs

March, 2019

Uncategorized

Natalie Edelstein, 2018 “Emerging Voices” Scholarship Recipient

As I sat and watched the 91st Academy Awards from my couch on Sunday, February 24th, I couldn’t help but notice that the awards this time felt a little different. Seeing women like Yalitza Aparicio and Regina King nominated for Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress, respectively, was a truly exciting moment and got me thinking about the importance of representation. While Hollywood still has a long way to go, some of this year’s biggest blockbuster hits, like Crazy Rich Asians and Black Panther, have done a great job elevating the conversation about representation in the media.

Carlos Cortes, author of The Children Are Watching: How the Media Teach About Diversity, offers a significant example of why representation matters in his article “A Long Way to Go: Minorities and the Media”.  Cortes examines a 1986 episode of The $25,000 Pyramid, where one contestant was attempting to give his partner clues to help him guess the word on screen correctly and earn money. During this specific episode, the word “gangs” came up on the cluer’s screen. Cortes explains, “without hesitation, he fired out the first thing that came to his mind: ‘They have lots of these in East L.A.” (a heavily Mexican-American area of Los Angeles).  Responding at once, his guest celebrity partner answered, gangs. Under competitive pressure, two strangers had immediately and viscerally linked “East LA” with “gangs.” Cortes goes on to explain that representation in mass media is to blame for this immediate association of gangs and a predominantly Latino part of Los Angeles. Cortes states that “the entertainment media have offered a comparatively narrow range of other Latino characters, while the news media have provided relatively sparse coverage of other Hispanic topics, except for such problem” issues as immigration and language. The result has been a Latino public image — better yet, a stereotype — in which gangs figure prominently.”

Cortes’ assessment is an important one. It is the job of media professionals to make sure everyone sees themselves accurately represented in movies and news stories, and while we are far from a perfectly representative media landscape, we are making great strides to tell better, more inclusive stories. Media professionals across the country must continue to make commitments to tell more diverse stories so that more young woman can look at their televisions and say, “She looks like me”.

Catherine Combs

February, 2019

Press Release, Uncategorized

Alliance for Women in Media, Foundation Announce 2019 Board

2019 Gracie Awards Garner Record Number of Entries

February 14, 2019, New York City/Los Angeles – The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) has announced that the 2019 call for entries for the annual Gracie Awards was the most successful in the program’s history.

The Gracies are the largest fundraising event by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation, the philanthropic arm of AWM that supports educational programs, charitable activities and scholarships to benefit women in media. The milestone comes as AWM and its Foundation (AWM/F) announce their 2019 National Board of Directors. New to the AWM Board are Abby Greensfelder, co-founder & co-owner, Half Yard Productions, Brenda Hetrick, chief revenue officer, Matrix Solutions, and Katherine Wolfgang, head of public relations, CBC.

“The number and caliber of extraordinary programs and performances entered for the 2019 Gracie Awards is an unprecedented milestone for the AWM/F,” said AWM/F executive director Becky Brooks. “Gracies Judges – women and more men than ever before – include executives and talent from across every form of media. They have their work cut out for them in deciding the 2019 winners from this exceptional pool of nominees.”

“The role of the AWM and Foundation boards is to lead our organizations and industry as we recognize, connect and educate women in radio, television and interactive media,” stated Christine Travaglini, AWM/F board chair and president, Katz Radio Group. “We are thrilled to have these talented, accomplished women joining our leadership for the next two years.”

Keisha Sutton James, vice president, Inner City Broadcasting Corporation, will serve as incoming chair, Heather Cohen, executive vice president, The Weiss Agency, will serve as Treasurer.  Josie Thomas, executive vice president, chief diversity and inclusion officer, CBS Corporation, will serve as treasurer-elect, while Sarah Foss, senior vice president, strategic initiatives, Freewheel Advertisers at FreeWheel will serve as immediate past chair.

The following individuals will serve as Directors at Large of AWM: Joyce Fitch, executive vice president, general counsel and secretary, Beasley Broadcast Group, Inc.; Jinny Laderer, president, vCreative; Meg LaVigne, president of television, Litton Entertainment; Kelly DeLace Perdomo, vice president, content, sports, entertainment, and partnership marketing, SiriusXM; and Diane Schwartz, SVP and group publisher, Access Intelligence.

The following individuals will serve as Directors at Large of AWMF: Anne Cowan, senior vice president, communications and marketing, CTAM; Annie Howell, co-founder and managing partner, The Punch Point Group; Deborah Parenti, publisher, RadioInk, RBR and TVBR; Rob Stoddard, SVP program network policy, NCTA – The Internet & Television Association; and Kristen Welch, chief financial officer, Illustrative Mathematics.

The 44th Annual Gracie Awards Gala will take place May 21, 2019, at the Beverly Wilshire, Beverly Hills, A Four Seasons Hotel, and the Gracie Awards Luncheon will be held June 26, 2019, in New York City at Cipriani 42nd Street.

The Gracies recognize exemplary programming created by, for and about women in radio, television, cable and interactive media. Honorees are selected in national, local and student markets, including both commercial and non-commercial outlets. Please visit http://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/ for more information about the Gracie Awards, and to apply to participate as a judge.

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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.

About the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation: In 1960, the Alliance for Women in Media became the first professional broadcasting organization to establish an educational foundation. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (formerly known as The Foundation of American Women in Radio & Television) supports and promotes educational programs, charitable activities, public service campaigns and scholarships to benefit the public, the electronic media and allied fields. 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 Twitter and Facebook. For more information about the Gracie Awards and to submit your entries, please visit www.allwomeninmedia.org/gracies.

Catherine Combs

February, 2019

Press Release

Jason Bailey, CEO at Sun Broadcast Group, Inc., Continues Partnership with the Alliance for Women in Media and its Foundation as an Honorary Trustee

LEXINGTON, KY January 31, 2019 – The Alliance for Women in Media and its Foundation (AWM/F) are pleased to announce that Jason Bailey, President, Sun Broadcast Group, will be continuing his longstanding support of AWM/F as an Honorary Trustee. Bailey is the founder and CEO of Sun Broadcast Group, a national radio sales and syndication company.

Bailey has been at the forefront of innovation in the national radio space for more than 25 years and has championed new products designed to reshape how radio is programmed, measured, bought and consumed. Bailey has been featured in numerous industry articles for his unique insight on the radio space, most recently on the cover of Radio Ink Magazine where he was named “Network Radio’s Next Big Star”.

“For the last several years, I’ve been honored to watch firsthand the amazing support the AWM lends to women across all media. The work that is done, the guidance provided, and the accolades given that are so wonderfully deserved are just the tip of the iceberg to what this incredible organization is all about,” said Bailey. “I am delighted and humbled to be welcomed back to serve as an Honorary Trustee through 2021. My hat is off to the leadership of AWM for the good they sow throughout media. And I urge anyone reading this to make today the day to get involved!”

Bailey started his broadcast career as the Morning Show Producer at WXLO-FM in Worcester at the age of 17. In 1994 he became the arena announcer for the AHL’s Worcester IceCats, a position he held for 10 years. In late 2000, Commonwealth Broadcasting recruited him to rebuild and program two radio stations in Worcester, including WORC-AM, the first station to play the Beatles. Throughout his radio career he was also privileged to serve as consultant in different capacities with companies such as Nextel, The NCAA, Boston Celtics and the Boston Bruins.

Prior to founding Sun Broadcast Group, Jason launched a marketing firm that helped streamline the sales and advertising process of more than 35 luxury real estate projects across North and Central America. He became one of the pioneers of an innovative personalized marketing approach by developing software that created email, direct mail and website experiences personally tailored to each individual prospect. During his three years in the industry, Bailey helped his clients realize more than $2 Billion in sales.

“Honorary Trustees have the unique ability to advise and shape the Alliance for Women in Media and its Foundation while publicly acknowledging the value of women in the media industry,” said Christine Travaglini, AWM/F Chair and President, Katz Radio Group. “Jason is a consummate leader, both at Sun Broadcast Group and in the radio industry and we value his ongoing support,” added Becky Brooks, AWM/F Executive Director.

The Honorary Trustee program at AWM/F offers senior executives the opportunity to engage and influence the strategy of AWM/F and its support of women in media. The HT program highlights ways to work together that are exclusive to Honorary Trustees and not available at any other partnership level through the Alliance for Women in Media or the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation.

Jason Bailey joins Catherine Frymark, Discovery Communications, and Mark Gray, Katz Radio Group, as an Honorary Trustee.

For more information, visit www.allwomeninmedia.org.

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.

About the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation: In 1960, the Alliance for Women in Media became the first professional broadcasting organization to establish an educational foundation. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (formerly known as The Foundation of American Women in Radio & Television) supports and promotes educational programs, charitable activities, public service campaigns and scholarships to benefit the public, the electronic media and allied fields. The Foundation also produces nationally acclaimed recognition programs, including the Gracie Awards®, a live gala that honors exemplary programming created by, for or about women. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit, educational organization.

Catherine Combs

January, 2019

Uncategorized

“’Perfect’ Women in Media” by Rashida Jones

Early morning breakfast meeting.
Off the record politics briefing.
Breaking news at the White House.
Rehearsal for the class play.
Basketball practice for one kid and a basketball game for the other kid AT THE SAME TIME.

In my house, we call this a “Friday”. Seven days a week our days are packed to the max. Choices have to be made. Levels have to be set. And at times, hearts have to be broken. This is a reality I have to face as a journalist, a mom, a daughter, a sister and a partner. You can’t do everything all the time and you can’t do everything perfectly. This is something I’ve had to accept over the course of time and it has changed my life.

From my perspective, the “secret sauce” to being able to do it all is accepting the fact that you can’t do it all perfectly. You have to make choices and prioritize. You have to choose when you can say no to that work event (I said no to one today). Or when you have to say no to a non-critical event with your family (I said no to one yesterday). Or when a little extra sleep is a better self-care decision than staying on the phone a bit longer (I said good night early last night). It’s not about saying no or yes, it’s about balance. It’s all about balance. It’s being able to go to sleep at night (even if it’s a little early) knowing you’ve said yes to the most important things most of the time. And that your NOs are balanced across all areas of your life. No one area feels slighted or neglected if you balance these decisions and they understand why you are saying no.

The tradeoff to living in this state of balance is worth it. Every day I serve as a News Executive is a day my daughter has a real life role model of a woman who is a leader, a decision maker and a guide for other journalists. It’s a day my son learns more and more that leaders come in all shapes, sizes and colors. He comes from a line of very strong women—I don’t think he’s ever thought women can’t or shouldn’t be among the most powerful in the room. On those days when I miss a game because of a Presidential summit or have to skip back to school night because it fell on the same evening as the State of the Union, my duo knows it’s for a good reason. My company knows if I have to miss a late night because my daughter is overcoming her stage fright to recite the Pledge of Allegiance during the Winter Concert (true story), it’s important to me and my family and they support me 100%.

We as women at times put pressure on ourselves to be perfect at all times. We can be highly self-critical when we can’t be. We have to not only accept that we can’t be perfect, but stop making this a goal. Embrace the upside of being in demand. Own the fact that you are multi-dimensional and multi-focused. Be comfortable with saying no to people or responsibilities you love when you need to. And realize your children are learning from you when you are feeding your passion-even when your passions fall outside of the time you spend with them.

Rashida Jones, Senior Vice President for Specials, NBC News and MSNBC

Catherine Combs

January, 2019

Uncategorized

Natalie Edelstein, 2018 “Emerging Voices” Scholarship Recipient

When Glamour Magazine announced their women of the year issue, I knew it would be nothing short of amazing. What I wasn’t prepared for was one of the best journalistic, power-woman combos of 2018: Yamiche Alcindor writing about Kamala Harris.

As a California native, Kamala Harris’ rise to political stardom is one I have watched closely. She is the only African American woman in the Senate, and its first ever Indian America. She has made a name for herself championing the rights of women and minorities, and prior to serving in the Senate was the Attorney General of California, where she took on cases that reshaped California’s legal landscape.
Alcindor is one of those journalists whose careers you dream of when you’re a little girl. She’s written about some of the most consequential events in the last decade including the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, the shooting of Trayvon Martin, the Ferguson unrest, and the Baltimore protests.

As I read the story, I couldn’t help but stop and take in what was occurring. Two women of color, sitting down for a national news outlet, elevating a story and a voice that would have otherwise been drowned out fifty years ago. The piece, which details Kamala’s political career and background, is written with a kind of careful consideration that only women can provide to one and other.

Upon finishing the story, I was able to reflect on what an incredible moment in history we are living in. The piece inspired me to go back into my internet history and find some of my favorite profiles, written by and about women and post them to Twitter. “Women are an amazing, powerful force and I am inspired by the ones around me every day,” I wrote. “Here is a thread of profiles I’ve read in the last few months that make me hopeful for our future,” and with that I listed out some of the pieces that I found strength in this past year. They include Claire McCaskill’s Toughest Fight, Kamala Harris Is on the Rise, How Maya Rudolph Became the Master of Impressions, Aly Raisman Takes the Floor, The Quiet Power of Viola Davis, She Founded Me Too. Now She Wants to Move Past the Trauma, and What Does Tulsi Gabbard Believe?

I am reminded of what a powerful force women in media are almost every day when I read profiles by Jia Tolentino and Taffy Brodesser-Akner. I am lucky to see myself represented in television news when I watch Katy Tur and Hallie Jackson report live from the White House, and I am excited about the future when I see my peers, like Allison Pecorin, taking on some of the biggest news stories of the year. Despite what some might say, I have immense hope for the future of this industry and the women involved in it.

Catherine Combs

December, 2018

Uncategorized

The Year in Review

By Becky Brooks, Executive Director

What a year it’s been. 2018 has been filled with glimmers of hope even as we see tragedy and hardship. Communities came together to provide aid to those in need and strangers wept for people they’ve never met. Women, men and children marched for change, and we gathered to watch a royal wedding, midterm elections and a beloved president’s funeral.

Through it all, the media was there – talking, listening and documenting. Despite a turbulent year for journalists, your hard-working teams kept us up-to-date every step of the way and delivered these stories directly to watching eyes and listening ears where people wanted it at that moment. For this reason, we thank you for your perseverance and dedication. AWM owns the responsibility to recognize, honor and distribute the content that you, the drivers and supporters of content, are creating.

For more than 60 years, the Alliance for Women in Media has been supporting and celebrating the contributions of women through connections, education and storytelling. Born out of the National Association of Broadcasters, AWM (originally the American Women in Radio and Television) was created by a group of women who understood the need to connect within a male-dominated media world, so they could positively impact the future for other women in the profession. History is full of stories like these—stories of women who had the courage to step up, speak out and their actions have a lasting impact.

The current leadership of AWM should be so proud of what has been built on that foundation. I have had the privilege of serving AWM for nearly four years now and our collective goal, to further why we were founded, has been to focus – focus on recognition, connection and build the future of women in media.

Focus is critical as growth can happen where energy is given. We have seen and experienced that in 2018 with record breaking Gracie entries followed by celebrating those winners at the Gala and Luncheon. Rebranding the Gracies Leadership Awards and honoring seven deserving women and learning from Pam Oliver about her rise to the top of women in sports broadcasting. Six deserving students received more than $20,000 in scholarships and ten more experienced the Gracies Leadership Awards first hand and will participate in a Lunch and Learn at CBS. You can read some of the content our future leaders have written on our site. The future looks bright!

While these efforts are impacting the future – we know there is still more opportunity – so we will continue to focus.

The AWM board of directors met recently for a strategic planning meeting and through much brainstorming and discussion, the board created a list of goals for new AWM initiatives which include more ways to engage AWM members. We want to push even more snackable, relevant content to members and the masses while adding opportunities for education in the future. We also want to gather executive women in one room across television, radio and interactive media – which is what AWM has the unique ability to do.

It is also important to continue shining a light on content creators at all stages of their careers and the Gracie Awards do just that.

We invite each of you to consider ways to engage with AWM and our Foundation to impact the future of women in media. The opportunity is available now to enter outstanding content to be honored at the 2019 Gracie Awards. Additionally, look for ways in early 2019 to volunteer on task forces implementing some of these new initiatives as well as judging Gracies in early 2019.

There is still much to be done including more seats at board room tables for women and our collective voices and effort will continue to bring positive change. AWM will fulfill our responsibility of recognizing, honoring and distributing even more content created by, for and about women.

With 2019 in sight, we can reflect on what we’ve learned this year, while looking forward to a fresh start. I hope we can all focus on growth in areas of our professional and personal lives. We have an opportunity to take action by mentoring, coaching, teaching and raising other people up, while finding and navigating our own paths forward.

Here’s to welcoming a New Year and wishing the world of media a healthy, happy and productive 2019!

Catherine Combs

December, 2018

Uncategorized

Rae-Shan Nate’ Barclift, CBS Fellowship Program Participant

Receiving an email from AWM with the subject line ‘Congratulations…’ was unbelievable, and I predict it will be Life Changing! The criteria for the CBS/AWM Fellowship called for female, college students in media. I am proudly female, but well beyond my college years. I wrote in anyway! I never thought I would be chosen. I’m in my Forties, Fabulous and I have pursued Media my entire adult life. Yet, I dared to step outside the criteria guidelines and ask if anyone would take note of my accomplishments and see me. On a whim, I went for it and reminded myself… You are what they’re looking for!

Attending the Gracies Leadership Awards felt like it was day one of my new journey. Seeing so many successful women was Women’s Empowerment at its BEST! I felt like I CAN because they HAVE! Every woman in that room earned the right to be there and I was there with them. So grateful! I wanted to have a conversation with each of them to find out their story because I’m a firm believer that every Woman has a story and Women Empower Women when we share our stories. We were the Best of the Best that day. And seeing Jeff Zucker, President of CNN Worldwide, was an added treat. It’s been many years, but I got my start interning in his office on a show called ‘NOW,’ with Tom Brokaw and Katie Couric. Full Circle moment for me!

When others said ‘No,’ I had to be my own ‘Yes.’ I created and hosted my own Talk Show, ‘I AIN’T That CHICK,’ about Self-Empowerment, Self-Awareness, and Self-Respect for women and girls of all ages and ethnicities and later created two more Talk Shows, ‘Chick Chat’ and ‘DISCUSSIONS.’ www.iaintthatchick.com I currently Co-Host a Faith Based, Internet Radio Talk Show called, ‘Be Yourself’. I’m passionate about my purpose and love for Media.

I am humbled, I am honored and I am beyond grateful that AWM and CBS saw me! Some blessings are delayed, but definitely not denied.

Catherine Combs

December, 2018

Uncategorized

Emily Sauchelli, 2018 Loreen Arbus Scholarship Recipient

At the Gracie Awards Luncheon, on June 27th 2018, I was living a dream. I never thought in a million years I would be receiving an award of this type of grandeur and prestige. I never fully had confidence in my capabilities until that day. That moment opened my eyes and made me realize anything is possible if I just believe in myself.

At the Gracie Awards Luncheon, I was inspired by so many women. I was particularly inspired by PBS News Hour Editor in Chief, Judy Woodruff. Anyone can be a journalist, but it takes someone special to be a storyteller. Judy Woodruff is a master at her craft. From watching her on TV, to seeing how she carries herself, Woodruff cares about the message she is sending out to society and does not care about putting on a persona for viewers. The best moment was when I got the opportunity to talk with Woodruff at the luncheon. It was a moment that I will never forget.

After I introduced myself, she was so gracious and asked, “What was your story?”. She told me she was going to look through the stories of all the winners on the plane back to Washington DC. From that moment, I knew the kind of person she was – kind, caring and inspirational. One of my favorite quotes from Judy’s speech was, “We have come a long way, but we still have work to do. We need more women in decision-making jobs, more women doing the hiring, more women deciding which stories get covered and more women reaching out to bring along younger women like the remarkable women we are seeing here today.” I agree with Woodruff that, as women in the media, we need to start uplifting each other and praising each other for our achievements in the industry.

Besides being a great storyteller, Woodruff cares about those with disabilities, as her son has spina bifida and hydrocephalus. Due to her son’s conditions, she is able to relate to others who are going through similar circumstances. That is another reason why she is great at her job. Audiences don’t just see a woman doing her job as a journalist, they see a woman who has opened part of her private life up to the world, in hopes that others can understand and know more about those with disabilities. Every single one of us is different on this Earth, and it’s time that everyone respects one another and our differences, no matter the severity.

What I took away from this experience – becoming a Gracie award winner and being in a room full of talented journalists and storytellers – is that everyone has his or her own story. The road to success is different for each person. I learned that no matter the struggles people have in their lives, it matters how they persevere and continue to achieve their goals. To me, that’s true inspiration.

Catherine Combs

November, 2018

Uncategorized

Nazanin Bani Amerian, 2018 Ford “Emerging Voices” Scholarship Recipient

I am standing in the middle of a fancy ballroom in NYC and recording the scene to preserve the moment in my mind forever. There are well-dressed people, purple lights, chandeliers, glasses of champagne and beautiful women taking pictures with their awards. My mom, brother and friends are waiting for this, so I post it on Instagram immediately with the caption, “This is the first time I feel important in my life”. I am 32, and that is not a lie. I feel important as me, Nazanin, for the first time in 32 years. I am here to accept my scholarship for a story of my life that I sent to the Alliance for Woman in Media. We are sitting at table 1 with all these important people working for different networks like CNN, journals and other places that I have always dreamt of working with one day. The beautiful girl from Ford is reading my article, which is a story about an ordinary Middle Eastern girl. People are clapping, tears are coming and I am overcome by this feeling in my heart that they have heard what I have told them. They are looking at me with no anger, judgment or pity. I am “me” here.

All my life, as a woman, I have not been allowed to talk about what I believe in, what I want or do not want to be, what I’ve gone through and what I feel about life in my country. There are some places in this world where you can tell your story and nobody is going to punish you for telling the truth. Alliance for Women in Media has given me the courage, confidence, and motivation to speak my truth. Standing in front of people I have admired all my life, talking to them and being heard by them has given me the encouragement to not be silent anymore. I know this experience is not just for me. This is for every other woman. Today, we need to cheer each other on, shake each other’s hands and help each other. The Alliance for Women in Media is a place where we can find that.

Catherine Combs

November, 2018

Uncategorized

Natalie Edelstein, 2018 “Emerging Voices” Scholarship Recipient

My entire life, I have been supported by strong women who have believed in me and my ability to achieve my goals. Beginning in high school with my Mock Trial coaches, Judith Daar and Debby Stegura, I learned that there was a vast network of women looking to nurture and help young women find their voice and stand up for what they believed. In college, I had the opportunity to work for C-Strategies President and CEO, Becky Carroll, who believed in me enough to allow me to take on a full-time role within her office and instilled confidence in me to stand behind the work I’d done. Those women, along with many others, fundamentally changed my life. They taught me to seize opportunities, make my voice heard and never turn down a challenge. I have come to realize how lucky I am for this vast support network, and I can see how much I’ve achieved because of it.

I was drawn to the Alliance for Women in Media for this very reason. The organization, which was created by women and for women, is a constant reminder that women can achieve incredible goals, status and progress when they support one another. I’m inspired by the Alliance’s commitment to educate, connect and inspire others in media and related fields. Because of AWM’s work, women who might otherwise be passed over for positions or opportunities find themselves elevated to a position where they can receive the recognition they deserve. Now more than ever, women need a seat at the table. Especially when it comes to media coverage and decision making, having women in positions of power is integral for balanced and thoughtful coverage.

Organizations like the Alliance for Women in Media are vitally important. By providing scholarships to students pursuing careers in media and allied fields — as well as supporting educational programs, charitable activities and public service campaigns — the organization continues to demonstrate the power of female leadership.

As one of this year’s Emerging Voices Scholarship winners, I am hyper-cognizant of how lucky I am to have the AWM’s support. The quote “Behind every great woman is a tribe of other successful women” couldn’t be more true. The Alliance for Women in Media is living proof.

Catherine Combs

November, 2018

Uncategorized

Alliance for Women in Media Honors Seven Female Leaders at Inaugural Gracies Leadership Awards

The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) hosted its inaugural Gracies Leadership Awards luncheon, formerly called Women Who Lead, Tuesday, November 13 to a capacity crowd at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. Keynote speaker Pam Oliver connected with the audience as she recounted her struggles and triumphs as a woman in the media industry. She spoke of winning a Gracie Award earlier this year and shared, “So many people asked me what it meant to me to receive a Gracie Award, and I always say it was really a career moment. I have received numerous awards that I am very proud of and grateful for, but the Gracie sits on my desk. It just gives me inspiration, and it says something about what women are able to accomplish.”

Seven female leaders in media were honored at the event. Highlights from their speeches include:
• The first honoree, Dara Altman, EVP and chief administrative officer, Sirius XM, said, “Women, Jews and all minorities of every kind do not have the same opportunities. Every day I try to ensure, however I can, that those unheard and under-observed people and voices are heard and that no one is told, like they told my mother, that she has no place at the table. I want to thank the Alliance for Women in Media for everything you do to make this a more inclusive industry and to shine a light on deserving women.”
• Lynn Beall, EVP and COO of media operations, TEGNA recognized the incredible work her team has done in today’s media climate. She said, “We’ve really tried, with the way the world is going today, to reinvent journalism. It has been the most challenging and messy time of my career because it’s hard. We’ve actually turned over our company to the best and brightest through innovation summits and pilots, and they have come up with content we could not have even imagined a couple of years ago.”
• Despite a big day in the news for CNN, honoree Allison Gollust, EVP and chief marketing officer, CNN, and Jeff Zucker, president, CNN were in attendance. During her acceptance, Gollust said, “There has never been a more important time in the news business to do what we do.”
• After thanking her “girl tribe” and husband, Jeanine Liburd, chief marketing & communications officer, BET Networks went on to say, “We can say everything that we want to say, but if we’re not doing the actions to make it happen then what’s the point? If you walk into a board room and everyone looks like you, you’re not being diverse and you’re not being inclusive. You’re not walking the walk.”
• In accepting the honor, Beth Neuhoff, president and CEO, Neuhoff Communications said, “We need to go out of this room and not just tell each other what we know, which is that having women in management, in the c-suite and on boards is good for cultural diversity, but you know what, it’s also great for investor returns. We need to show that and prove that, which we can…”
• Carole Robinson, chief communications officer, BuzzFeed addressed the importance of including men in the conversation about equality in the workplace. She said, “If we want to impact change we need to clarify what strong and equal representation is and how valuable it is to have everyone at the table. None of the rules have changed. The rules are the same ones we learned in fifth grade; we keep our hands to ourselves and treat others with respect.”
• Jo Ann Ross, president and chief advertising revenue officer, CBS said, “Founders of AWM were way ahead of their time understanding women have a lot to contribute and a lot to say. Many of us here have power and privilege, and what I believe is our responsibility, to help other women excel in this business.”

“Now more than ever before, we have a responsibility to create conversation and shine the spotlight on the success and progress of women in media,” said Heather Cohen, AWMF board member and EVP, The Weiss Agency. ”We not only want to honor those deserving recognition but show the next generation what is possible. Our purpose at AWM is to bring intelligent, accomplished, dedicated women (and men) together to share ideas, experiences and some ‘you go, girls!’”

Photos from the event can be found at graciesawards.photos.

Sponsors of the event were Ford Motor Company, BET Networks, BuzzFeed, CBS Corporation, CNN, Cox Media Group, FOX Sports, Katz Media Group, NCTA – The Internet & Television Association, Neuhoff Communications, SiriusXM, TEGNA, vCreative and WideOrbit.

Becky Brooks

September, 2018

Uncategorized

Integrating Public Health and Entertainment to Improve Digital Literacy among Youth

By Grace Kim, MPH

In the current hyperconnected age, digital literacy is essential to the development of 21st century skills, as creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication are increasingly conducted through computers, social media, and the internet. The current generation of youth is one defined by media and technology. Generation Z, consisting of those born between 1996-2010, is the first generation to be raised in the era of smartphones, and many do not remember a time before social media (Williams, 2015). Stories of young people who become the digital elite demonstrate their new roles as creators and influencers and have become celebrated narratives of technological progress and entrepreneurial savvy as they discover new, innovative uses for media and technology (Burwell, 2010). Not only is the prevalence of smartphone access among youth essentially universal, a growing share of teens now describe their internet usage as nearly constant with 45% of teens saying they use the internet “almost constantly,” a figure that has nearly doubled since the 2014-2015 Pew Research Center survey (Anderson & Jiang, 2018). With this kind of technology easily accessed at our fingertips and the near constant usage of these technologies, new skills and competencies are needed to equip youth to engage in society.

While digital literacy is often framed as an educational issue, the constantly changing media and technology landscape increasingly requires digital literacy for everyday activities and an engaged citizenship, and has reverberating implications on health, well-being, and quality of life. As such, digital literacy should also be considered an urgent public health issue. In this essay, we describe how a collaboration between public health and entertainment can be used to better understand digital literacy and form opportunities to improve youth digital literacy levels. The aims will be to: (1) discuss the importance of digital literacy in the context of public health, (2) review existing digital literacy interventions and the potential limitations of restricting these interventions to the classroom, and ultimately (3) identify entertainment education as a unique opportunity for public health and the entertainment and media industry to work together to improve digital literacy in youth populations.

Digital Literacy for Public Health

Since its origin, the definition of digital literacy has had to constantly adapt to new technologies and new ways in which users interact with these technologies. Definitions have shifted away from protection or inoculation and towards empowering individuals to engage with media (Bulger & Davison, 2018). Digital literacy takes into account the full range of skills needed to read, write, speak, view, and participate in online spaces (Turner et al., 2017). The aim of these core competencies is responsible digital citizenship, an understanding of citizens’ rights and responsibilities online, a recognition of the benefits and risks, and realization of the personal and ethical implications of actions in the digital space. In sum, the goal is to empower individuals to be smart and effective participants in the digital world (Partnership for 21st Century Learning).

Although digital literacy has traditionally been discussed in the context of education, digital literacy is also fundamental to public health. The World Health Organization defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity” (World Health Organization, 2018). At an individual level, digital technologies allow us to participate in everyday activities—access internet to do homework, shop online, communicate with one another, or check real-time traffic conditions, demonstrating how digital literacy can contribute to individual quality of life (Tomer & Lee, 2015). Digital literacy has also become increasingly important to public health as digital technologies have changed the way through which we obtain health information and access care. For example, as health records, medical appointment scheduling, and health information move to digital platforms, individuals must become digitally literate to access these resources and receive timely and appropriate care. Of particular concern among public health researchers has been how the media can influence audiences regarding risky behaviors, such as increased propensity for violence or body dissatisfaction (Potter, 2013). In response, interventions implementing an educational curriculum in classroom, community, and lab settings have been designed to foster resiliency and help young people be critical of the media they consume. This body of research has found digital literacy interventions to have positive, counteracting effects related to risky and antisocial behaviors, including violence and aggression, alcohol and tobacco use, body image issues, eating disorders, and commercialism (Halliwell, Easun, & Harcourt, 2011; Jeong, Cho, & Hwang, 2012; Kupersmidt, Scull, & Austin, 2010).

Navigating digital technologies also plays a role in public health at a community and societal level. The wellbeing of individuals in a community is influenced by how well the community functions, not only in terms of ensuring equitable distribution of the determinants of health, but in terms of the processes of governance in the community such as the degree of participation, the degree of social cohesion and the extent of civic engagement (Hancock, Labonte, & Edwards, 1999; National Civic League, 1993; Putnam, 1993). Given digital technologies are considered central to cultural, civic, and economic participation (Aabo, 2005; Meyers, Erickson, & Small, 2013), digital literacy empowers individuals to be active participants in their communities. For example, online advocacy, social protest, “liking,” sharing, and remixing media demonstrate digital technologies’ increasing capacities for political engagement, advocacy, and social justice (Cohen C & J, 2012; Mihailidis & Thevenin, 2013; Turner et al., 2017). Thus, digital literacy can improve community functioning, which, in turn, has positive effects on individual health outcomes.

Clearly, the costs of digital illiteracy are high. Digital literacy has major health implications over an individual’s life course. Although we often assume that young people are digitally literate, there is some research that reveals disparities in digital literacy, with lower digital literacy associated with lower socioeconomic status and racial and ethnic minorities (Hargittai, 2010; Rampell, 2008). These disparities may have reverberating effects later in life. Digital literacy equips people with the skills and capacities to pursue higher education and obtain higher paying jobs due to most jobs now requiring basic computer skills and an expanding job market that is technology-driven (Tomer & Lee, 2015). Substantial literature supports the influence of socioeconomic status on health outcomes via mechanisms of social capital and access to resources (Phelan, Link, & Tehranifar, 2010). The U.S. has gambled on broadband being a great equalizer (West & Karsten, 2016) but, in order to achieve this goal, and take advantage of the resources that broadband presents, citizens must be able to understand how to use the internet to access and interpret the information available. This reinforces that digital literacy training must occur in early life stages, thereby increasing opportunities for youth to succeed. Given digital literacy is also a public health concern, it implores us to explore how a public health perspective can contribute to improving youth digital literacy and address persisting disparities.

 A Review of Digital Literacy Interventions

Digital or media literacy interventions typically involve an experimental treatment that provides people with the tools that increase awareness and promote deeper understanding of the underlying meanings contained in media messages (Potter, 2004). The goal is to build the cognitive skills required to process media messages in a more active way and use these tools to defend themselves against the potential negative effects of media (Byrne, 2009; Potter, 2004). A meta-analysis of media literacy interventions reports that digital and media literacy interventions are generally effective as having significant positive effects on outcomes including media knowledge, criticism, perceived realism, influence, behavioral beliefs, attitudes, self-efficacy, and behavior (Jeong et al., 2012).

What emerges from a review of the existing literature of digital literacy interventions is that interventions have been largely limited to the classroom {Colwell, 2013 #25}(Colwell, Hunt-Barron, & Reinking, 2013; Sefton-Green, Nixon, & Erstad, 2009), and the majority of media literacy efforts in the U.S. remain focused on teacher training and curricula development (Bulger & Davison, 2018). These curricula often focus on protection with digital literacy as a means to defend oneself from the potentially harmful effects of media. For example, in health, media literacy often means helping youth decipher implicit messages in media and increasing awareness of the media as a business of selling products and behaviors that often are not good for them (Brown, 2006). The assumption behind these interventions is that youth will become more critical of the media they consume and will be less likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors promoted by the media (Brown, 2006). Although these critical evaluation skills are important, these kinds of interventions tend to narrowly focus on the media as having a negative or harmful influence on audiences. What has been largely absent in the digital literacy intervention literature is using the powerful influence of media for the social good.

While it remains essential to continue efforts to incorporate digital literacy into school curricula, studies have identified barriers to implementing digital literacy curriculum and integration of digital technologies into classroom instruction, including competing demands, lack of appropriate professional development for teachers, and teacher attitudes towards the importance of digital literacy training (Colwell et al., 2013; Hutchison & Reinking, 2010, 2011). Moreover, learning digital literacy not only occurs in schools, but also in the home and other informal settings, such as social environments with friends and online communities (Meyers et al., 2013). Given the challenges in implementing digital literacy interventions in classroom settings, innovative approaches to supplement classroom instruction on digital literacy are needed. Thus, it is timely to explore how collaborations between different disciplines can allow for a more integrative, holistic approach to improving youth digital literacy.

Interventions have long focused on personal responsibility where individuals are expected to negotiate the risks and opportunities of the online world, rather than the responsibilities of the community, state, institutions, or developers of technologies to support individuals (Bulger & Davison, 2018). Consequently, there has been a recent surge of efforts to foster news literacy, media literacy, and digital citizenship among corporations, policy makers, non-profits, and national organizations to create curricula, resources, and instructional materials for parents and educators, fund and conduct research, and expand corporate initiatives to protect and empower users (Bulger & Davison, 2018). For example, in 2017, Facebook initiated their Journalism Project aimed at improving the media literacy of its users (Bulger & Davison, 2018). This involved establishing collaborations and partnerships between Facebook and the news industry, developing a series of PSAs promoting news literacy, improvements on the Facebook platform to curb the spread of misinformation, and bringing together experts to help decide on what new research to conduct and projects to fund (Simo, 2017). Although these sectors are making steps towards supporting digital literacy, what remains largely unexplored is how entertainment and television can also engage in this nationwide effort.

An Opportunity for Entertainment Education

Digital literacy represents a unique opportunity for collaboration between public health and the entertainment and media industry via entertainment education. Entertainment education (or edutainment) incorporates health and other educational messages into popular entertainment media with the goal of positively influencing awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and/or behaviors (Moyer-Gusé, 2008). While there have been media-based interventions that aim to build digital literacy by critiquing films or television shows, using entertainment education to improve digital literacy has largely been an untapped avenue. However, digital technologies are already central to storylines of popular young adult television series, such as Pretty Little Liars and Gossip Girl, supporting the potential for the development of entertaining storylines that can educate audiences about skills, strategies, and responsibilities of navigating the internet, social media, and other digital technologies in a way that is relevant and resonating with today’s youth audiences.

One potential framework that may serve as a tool for interested producers and screenwriters is the Sábido Methodology. The Sábido approach uses the soap opera melodrama to communicate prosocial messages. Often credited with the beginning of entertainment education (EE), Miguel Sábido, a Latin American artist and intellectual best known in Mexico for his theater and television works, created a methodology articulating a theoretical and empirical research-based formula to construct media messages that initiate socially desirable attitudes and behaviors (Nariman, 1993). A central pillar of the Sábido approach is role modeling. Thus, there are characters that represent the socially desirable behavior and consequences when characters rebel against the behavior. Through these narratives, spectators can learn how they would handle or overcome similar experiences.

More recently, this approach has been applied in the Hulu original East Los High. With an all Latino cast and crew, East Los High utilizes principles of EE and transmedia storytelling to reach, engage, and ultimately influence young Latino/a American knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors as a response to persistent challenges in teen pregnancy and adolescent sexual and reproductive health (Wang & Singhal, 2016). A recent evaluation of the show’s first season demonstrated wide audience reach, strong viewer engagement, and a positive cognitive, emotional, and social impact on sexual and reproductive health communication and education (Wang & Singhal, 2016). The show also demonstrated success by being consistently rated as a top show on Hulu and drawing 1 million unique visitors each month to the Hulu Latino webpage (Wang & Singhal, 2016). Similarly, producers may use the Sábido approach to create content that can model socially desirable behaviors around best practices with digital technologies in an engaging, but safe environment for adolescents. Population Media Center, which helped produce the first season of East Los High, describes the process of developing entertainment education content in 5 steps.

How is an entertainment education show constructed? (Population Media Center, 2018)

1.     Know your audience. Conduct ethnographic and formative research to understand the realities, issues, opportunities, and challenges that the target audience experiences. This research should inform character development, storylines, media placement, and issue treatment, so that they can better resonate with target audiences.

2.     Integrate behavior change theory. Understand how people learn and make decisions, and the factors that contribute to their attitudes and behaviors. The show content is designed to motivate the audience to adopt certain behaviors, create self-efficacy, and build resiliency. The format of the show is also derived from behavior change theory, requiring storylines to extend over many episodes and involve characters that behave as role models that face similar struggles, such that audiences can learn how to handle similar challenges.

3.     Integrate entertainment-industry insight. In order to address sensitive topics and provide knowledge, improved sense of agency, and the desire to adopt new behavioral options, audiences need to be engaged and entertained to be willing to hear the messages presented on the show.

4.     Monitor and evaluate the show and its impact. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of each show ensures programs are on track and provide learning for current and future programs.

5.     Ensure culturally-specificity. Not only should the storylines and the presentation of the health issue be relatable and culturally-specific, but the creative and production process should also be culturally-specific. In other words, hire local writers, actors, and production staff from target audiences whenever possible. The team should be trained in the methodology for show creation and for overall operating procedures, including show marketing, monitoring and evaluation, and others.

Resources

 Population Media Center: https://www.populationmedia.org/our-approach/shows/

Nariman, H. N. (1993). Soap operas for social change: Toward a methodology for entertainment-education television. Westport, CT: Praeger Publishers.

Storylines relevant to digital literacy are already present in television entertainment. Popular shows like the recently renewed series Will & Grace, which is known for its subtle but poignant cultural commentary, has addressed pertinent issues such as fake news and how the internet and social media play a role in politics and democracy.

Another example is the 2017 film Ingrid Goes West, a black comedy exploring society’s conflicting feelings towards social media, which won best screenplay in the U.S. Dramatic Competition at Sundance (Variety, 2017). The story follows the story of Ingrid Thorburn (Aubrey Plaza), a young woman who moves out to California in hopes of befriending her new Instagram obsession—social media “influencer” Taylor Sloane (Elizabeth Olsen). In interviews with the cast and producers, they discuss how the film serves as a social critique of social media and the online generation (The New York Times, 2017). Through humor and wit, the film addresses issues of loneliness and isolation, authenticity, obsession and online versus real connection and ultimately encourages constructive discussion around the use of social media and digital citizenship.

As these recent examples have shown, there is ample opportunity for television and film to create educational, yet entertaining content about digital literacy for youth audiences. These kinds of storylines are not only entertaining, but also tap into the current zeitgeist about the implications of digital technologies on daily life. Entertainment education takes this a step further, such that prosocial messages are carefully constructed based on comprehensive, formative research about the target audience and their experiences with the issue at hand. One of the many strengths of entertainment education is that including digital literacy messages into popular media can increase reach and affect audiences at a larger scale than a typical classroom-based intervention. Further, transmedia narratives can complement entertainment education efforts to create immersive experiences that allow audiences to engage with the educational material on television and apply digital literacy skills across platforms in innovative ways. Just as entertainment education has proven to be an innovative, effective communication platform in the field of public health, television can have a powerful role in teaching digital literacy through the power of storytelling, role-modeling, and audience engagement.

(References available separately.)

Becky Brooks

August, 2018

Uncategorized

NEW – GRACIES LEADERSHIP AWARD

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA ENHANCES ITS CORE RECOGNITION OPPORTUNITIES UNDER GRACIES BANNER  

 Top Female Executives Across All Areas of Media To Receive Inaugural Gracies Leadership Award in November 2018

 NEW YORK, NY (August 23, 2018) – For more than 60 years, The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM), through the annual Gracie Awards, has honored women and men in television, radio and interactive media for their outstanding contributions and achievements in creating programming and entertainment by, for and about women. Today, AWM announced a new Gracie Award – one that will recognize the contributions of countless female executives who pave the way as change-agents, shattering glass ceilings across the industry.

This strategic move by the AWM board unifies all of the organization’s recognition programs under one umbrella: the Gala event in Los Angeles that awards national and global content creators and contributors; the Luncheon in New York celebrating story tellers at the local level as well as student creatives; and now the Gracies Leadership Award. This award is a modification of AWM’s former Women Who Lead Award, appropriately intensified and emboldened through its alignment with the prestigious Gracies brand.

“So, why this? Why now? Even after decades of bestowing the coveted Gracie Award on the producers, directors, actors and writers, something was still missing,” said Becky Brooks, Executive Director, AWM. “The award is named for the iconic and brilliant Gracie Allen, equally a talent as well as visionary business leader.  Now, the Alliance for Women in Media will recognize the contributions of all individuals who work tirelessly to ensure creation and delivery of the very best in programming around the world.”

The Gracies Leadership Award closes the circle, honoring women who lead the media industry, from owners to founders to C-suite executives. The inaugural class will be recognized at a luncheon on November 13, 2018, at the iconic Plaza Hotel in New York City.

# # #

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.

Becky Brooks

June, 2018

Uncategorized

Alliance for Women in Media Foundation Successfully Completes 43rd Annual Gracies Luncheon

NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 27: Judy Woodruff and Jane Pauley attend The Gracies, presented by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation at Cipriani 42nd Street on June 27, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images for The Alliance For Women In Media Foundation)

 

Judy Woodruff Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award,

CNN’s Erica Hill Hosted and Country Artist Jessie Chris Performed
at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City

 

June 28, 2018 (New York City) – Yesterday the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) presented the 43rd Annual Gracie Awards at a luncheon at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City. Host Erica Hill of CNN led the program alongside presenters Pam Oliver from FOX Sports; multimedia host, actress and author Angie Martinez; April Ryan of American Urban Radio Networks and CNN; and Larry Mullins from Entercom’s 1010 WINS. 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 TV, radio and interactive media.

Highlights from the show included:

  • AWMF Board Chair and Katz Radio Group President Christine Travaglini opened the Luncheon. After welcoming the record-breaking crowd, she introduced AWM Board Treasurer and Gracies Co-Chair Heather Cohen, executive vice president of The Weiss Agency.
  • Lifetime Achievement Honoree Judy Woodruff, anchor and managing editor of the PBS NewsHour, was presented her award by last year’s Honoree Jane Pauley, who said, “There should be no more exalted role in society than the role of journalists. When that ceases to be, we will no longer rightfully call ourselves a free society. Judy Woodruff deserves recognition for lifetime as much as anyone I can think of. Furthermore, she has earned it.” When accepting the award, Woodruff captivated the audience and spoke strongly with regard to women in media, “We have come a long way, but we still have work to do. We need more women in decision-making jobs, more women doing the hiring, more women deciding which stories get covered, and more women reaching out to bring along younger women like the remarkable women we are seeing here today.”
  • Erica Hill, CNN anchor and correspondent, hosted the awards. Hill has a rich history with the Gracie Awards as the 2015 honoree for Outstanding Correspondent. When presenting the awards for outstanding work in Local Market Television, Hill said, “Local markets are more important today than ever as newsrooms shrink, and newspapers are shuttered. Local reporters hold officials accountable – they tell the stories that matter in the moment. They get to the heart of the issues. They inform, they educate, and they help.”
  • 2018 Billboard Artist-to-Watch Country Singer Jessie Chris performed and spoke about her passion as an anti-bullying advocate. Chris, the victim of extreme bullying as a student, is an anti-bullying advocate who has supported the Ad Council’s #BeMore Campaign and Disney’s #ChooseKindness campaign.
  • Presenter Larry Mullins from Entercom’s 1010 WINS was a lively presenter who not only spoke, but also sang, “We talk about the Oprahs, we talk about the Barbara Walters, we talk about the Judy Blumes, Jane Pauley, and so many others that I’ve seen here today, and then it goes all the way to the Shonda Rhimes. Sisters your day has come. Your day is now!”

The National Gracie Award honorees were recognized at the Gracies Gala, May 22, 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 from the 43rd annual Gracies Luncheon may be viewed at the following link: http://mm.gettyimages.com/mm/nicePath/gyipa_public?nav=pr590622247

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 the Emma Bowen Foundation, NCTA, NAB and other 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.

Sponsors of The Gracies Luncheon include: CBS, Beasley Media Group, Cumulus, Discovery, Entercom, Katz Media Group, NCTA – the Internet & Television Association, PBS NewsHour, Sinclair, TEGNA, vCreative and WideOrbit.

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

Becky Brooks

June, 2018

Uncategorized

Alliance for Women in Media Foundation Announces Judy Woodruff as Lifetime Achievement Honoree for 43rd Annual Gracies Luncheon

               

CNN’s Erica Hill to Host and Country Artist Jessie Chris to Perform
at June 27 Event at Cipriani 42nd Street

June 5, 2018 (New York City) – The leadership of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) announces that Judy Woodruff, anchor and managing editor of “PBS NewsHour,” will be honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 43rd Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon. Hosting the luncheon will be another television news veteran, Erica Hill of CNN. The annual Gracies Luncheon honors individual achievement and outstanding programming at the local level for TV and radio, public level for radio and student level for TV, radio and interactive media. It will take place June 27 at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City.

The Gracie Awards recognize individual achievement and outstanding programming created by, for and about women in all facets of media and entertainment. Given this year to Woodruff, who has covered politics and other news for more than four decades, the Gracies Lifetime Achievement Award honors a woman in media who exemplifies and embodies the essence of the iconic trailblazer, the late Gracie Allen, the namesake of The Gracie Awards.

“The Gracie Awards celebrate the female storytellers who are changing the narrative and pushing boundaries in the quest toward diversity and equality,” said AWMF Chair Christine Travaglini, President, Katz Radio Group. “Since the beginning of her journalism career in 1976, Judy Woodruff’s connected, well-researched approach is consistently present and illustrates why she is so worthy of this

Lifetime Achievement Award. We at AWM and AWMF, through the Gracies, are incredibly proud to honor and celebrate outstanding talent and content for, by and about women.”

Woodruff’s award-winning career includes roles at CNN, NBC, and PBS:

•  For 12 years, she served as anchor and senior correspondent for CNN.

•  At PBS from 1983-1993, Woodruff was the chief Washington correspondent for The MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour. From 1984-1990, she also anchored PBS’ documentary series, “Frontline with Judy Woodruff.”

•  At NBC News, Woodruff was White House correspondent for several years and served one year as Chief Washington Correspondent for “TODAY.”

•  She also anchored a monthly program for Bloomberg Television, “Conversations with Judy Woodruff.”

Among the many awards, Woodruff has received the Edward R. Murrow Lifetime Achievement Award in Broadcast Journalism/Television. She also authored the book, “This is Judy Woodruff at the White House,” published in 1982. Woodruff is a founding co-chair of the International Women’s Media Foundation, an organization dedicated to promoting and encouraging women in communication industries worldwide.

“I am thrilled to receive a Gracie from the Alliance for Women in Media, a truly pioneering organization in promoting women across the spectrum of media careers,” says Woodruff. “Since its start as AWRT, it has been dedicated to creating opportunities for women and, thankfully, we see the results all around us.”

Gracies Luncheon host Erica Hill is a TV anchor and award-winning journalist. She serves as an anchor and correspondent for CNN. Most recently, Hill anchored CNN’s Headline News, “On the Story with Erica Hill.” She was previously a co-anchor of NBC’s weekend edition of “TODAY,” and served as an anchor and correspondent for NBC News. Before joining NBC, Hill was an anchor and correspondent at CBS News.

In 2015, AWMF honored Hill with the Gracie Award for Outstanding Correspondent. “It’s an honor to host the Gracies, and to be among the most inspiring, empowering and talented women in our business,” said Hill. “I am thrilled that we will recognize the incomparable Judy Woodruff. She’s an icon, and someone I have always looked up to not only as a journalist but as a human being.”

Performing will be 2018 Billboard Artist-to-Watch Jessie Chris. Chris was the first country artist to be named “TODAY” Show Artist of The Month, and she was the youngest performer at the 2015 CMA Festival, an event she has also performed at in 2017 and 2018. Chris, the victim of extreme bullying as a student, is an anti-bullying advocate who has supported the Ad Council’s #BeMore Campaign and Disney’s #ChooseKindness campaign. This year, she will visit 100 schools across the country to speak with students about bullying and recently formed a partnership to share songs, inspirational quotes and vlogs directly with children and families through the Mazu app. Chris authored a children’s book on the subject, which will be released this summer.

The National Gracie Award honorees were recognized at the Gracies Gala, May 22, 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 2018 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 the Emma Bowen Foundation, NCTA, NAB and other 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 include Ford Motor Company, Crown Media Group, CNN, CBS Corporation, Discovery, Inc., FOX Sports, NCTA – The Internet and Television Association, Premiere Networks, SiriusXM, Katz Media Group, Beasley Media Group and Entercom.

Becky Brooks

May, 2018

Uncategorized

Alliance for Women in Media Foundation Presents the 43rd Annual Gracie Awards

Attendees Included Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Rita Moreno, Performer Kelsea Ballerini, Host Lisa Joyner, and Honorees Shirley Strawberry, April Ryan and Whitney Allen

LOS ANGELES (May 23, 2018) – The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) handed out the 43rd Annual Gracie Awards at the Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles. Host Lisa Joyner led the evening which included the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Rita Moreno by Norman Lear and a special performance by Grammy-nominated country music singer Kelsea Ballerini.

The Gracie Awards, which each year celebrate programming created by, for and about women across radio, television, cable and interactive media, hosted attendees including Megan Mullally, Nick Offerman, Jon Cryer, Pam Oliver, Elizabeth Smart, Loni Love, Shaun Robinson, Jeannie Mai, Gabrielle Dennis, Kevin Burkhardt, Erica Hill, Toni Trucks, Mary Louise Kelly, Robin Thede, Zerlina Maxwell, Jessica McIntosh, Tracey Wigfield, Shirley Strawberry, April Ryan, Rachel Nelson, Whitney Allen, Paula Malcomson, Jill Schlesinger and more. This year’s social media ambassador was Sweety High host Cassie DiLaura and the ceremony was executive produced by Vicangelo Bulluck. To view complete list of award recipients and honorable mentions, visit allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/award-winners.

Highlights from the evening include:

  • Host Lisa Joyner kicked off the evening celebrating the strides women have made in the past year. “From the record setting attendance at the Women’s March, to the wave of sexual misconduct allegations that empowered women to speak their truth, to gender inequality and the wage gap being thrust into the spotlight. And from there, we’re about to make history this year for the record number of women running for public office.”
  • Norman Lear presented the Gracies Lifetime Achievement Award to Rita Moreno saying, “Rita Moreno and her magic has made it look easy. I’m grateful to know and work with her, and be able to tell her that I love her in front of a crowd.”
  • Moreno accepted the award with a moving speech: “What makes this recognition so special to me is the acknowledgement of a lifetime’s work which at 86, is a lot of life and a lot of work. This line of work demands profound endurance and the ability to control and avoid beating up Meryl Streep for getting all the stuff that you could’ve done better,” Moreno joked as the audience laughed. Reminiscing on a moment when she was ten years old dreaming of making it in the industry, Moreno said, “seventy years later, who would’ve thunk I’d be in the company of other wonderful stars? I really feel blessed.”
  • Country music star Kelsea Ballerini took to the stage and brought the house down as she performed “I Hate Love Songs” and “In Between” off her new sophomore album “Unapologetically.”
  • Nick Offerman took a knee on stage as he held up and presented the statuette for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy or Musical to “Will & Grace” star and wife Megan Mullally. She accepted the honor as she offered advice. “ I want to say to women and girls, you have no limitations. You can do whatever the hell you want to do,” said Mullally. “Be collaborative but do it your way, just the way you like it. Learn how to say no, but most importantly, learn how to say yes.”
  • Sportscaster Kevin Burkhardt presented the award for Best On-Air Talent, Entertainment/Sports to Pam Oliver. She shared with the audience that sports and journalism were always key for success and the challenges she’s had to endure in a male-dominated industry. “You have to protect your dream,” said Oliver. “I’ve been called a bitch at least three times by head coaches but never to my face. If they ever said it to my face, it would be on!”
  • Elizabeth Smart, who bravely told her abduction story through the intimate two-part biography special “Elizabeth Smart: Autobiography,” received a standing ovation from the entire room as she accepted the Gracie for Best Producer, Non-Fiction. “When I ultimately decided to tell my story, it wasn’t to put my nightmare on air. It’s because I had met other survivors,” said Smart. Though not all the victims she met had gone through kidnapping and rape, Smart said, “pain is pain, and there is always hope and you can always move forward.”
  • Host of “The Real” and comedian Loni Love presented the award for Best Drama to NBC’s hit show “This Is Us.” Executive producer Elizabeth Berger, along with seven of the show’s female writers, accepted the award sharing that they “created the show about women that remind us of us” and about “moving through life with grace and dignity.”

Below, please find links to access house footage, which includes: b-roll of arrivals; interviews with honorees, the host and presenters; clips from the ceremony; and more.
Video Credit – Getty Images Video
Video: http://bit.ly/2s1he4S
Photo Credit – Getty on behalf of The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation
Photos: http://assignments.gettyimages.com/mm/nicePath/gyipa_public?nav=pr582632871

 

About 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 the Emma Bowen Foundation, NCTA, NAB and other organizations that are philosophically aligned with the mission of the Foundation. In addition to giving $20,000 a year away in scholarships to deserving female students, the Foundation also produces nationally acclaimed recognition programs, including the Gracie Awards that honors exemplary programming created by, for and about women. For more information about The Alliance for Women in Media please visit their website at allwomeninmedia.org and follow them on Twitter (@AllWomeninMedia), (@TheGracies), (#TheGracies) and Facebook. Sponsors of The Gracies include Ford Motor Company; Beasley Media Group, Big Time with Whitney Allen, Crown Media Group, CNN, CBS Corporation, Cumulus Media, Discovery, Inc., Entercom, FOX Sports, Katz Media Group, NCTA – The Internet and Television Association, Netflix, NPR, Premiere Networks, Sinclair Broadcast Group, SiriusXM, Sony Broadcast Television, Sun Broadcast Group, TBS, TEGNA, Universal Television, vCreative and VICE Media.

 

Becky Brooks

May, 2018

Uncategorized

Rita Moreno to Receive Lifetime Achievement Award at 43rd Annual Gracie Awards; Lisa Joyner to Host Event

            

LOS ANGELES (May 2, 2018) – Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award winner Rita Moreno will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 43rd Annual Gracie Awards on May 22 at the Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles. Five-time Emmy Award-winning broadcaster and producer Lisa Joyner will serve as host. Presented by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF), the Gracie Awards honor outstanding individual achievements and programming by, for and about women in television, radio and interactive media.

“Throughout her career which spans more than 70 years, Rita has redefined roles, challenged standards, and shattered barriers, reflecting values the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation admires and applauds,” said AWMF Chair Christine Travaglini, President, Katz Radio Group. “She achieved becoming the first Hispanic actress to win an Academy Award, opening doors for Hollywood hopefuls from diverse backgrounds. With Rita receiving our top accolade and Lisa, a proven and charismatic host, it’s sure to be a celebratory and empowering night for all our supporters and honorees.”

“The Gracie Award, what a delight,” said Moreno. “It’s very special to be associated with the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation by receiving this Lifetime Achievement Award. I appreciate how the Foundation promotes both the worth and work of women in media. I am especially impressed with the Foundation’s encouragement of young women students of media. This is an honor!”

“It is a privilege to host such a prestigious awards gala honoring so many incredible women in the media,” said Joyner. “The women being recognized are some of the finest in the business and collectively are shining examples for young girls today.”

Moreno belongs to an elite group of only 12 performers who have won entertainment’s grand slam of the industry’s most prestigious awards: the Oscar, Emmy, Tony and Grammy. Additionally, in December 2015 Moreno received the Kennedy Center Honor for her lifetime contributions to American culture and was the 50th recipient of the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award in 2014. Moreno currently stars in the Latino remake of Norman Lear’s classic sitcom “One Day at a Time” on Netflix and lends her voice to the character Abuelita in the children’s animated series “Nina’s World,” which airs on NBC-TV’s Sprout Network. Prior to that, she appeared in guest-starring roles in “Getting On,” “Jane The Virgin,” “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Grace and Frankie.”

Today Moreno performs concerts across the country and often appears as a guest artist with symphony orchestras. She also lectures to various organizations and university audiences on topics such as diversity and the arts, in addition to being involved with a number of civic and charitable organizations. Moreno has served on The National Endowment for the Arts, as a Commissioner for The President’s White House Fellowships, and as a member of The President’s Committee on the Arts and Humanities.

Emmy Award-winning television personality and producer, Lisa Joyner, is currently co-hosting season three of TLC’s “Long Lost Family,” where she guides the show’s participants through the discovery process of finding their biological families. As an adoptee herself, she provides a unique perspective, giving her the ability to connect meaningfully with guests and help them through the emotional journey. Joyner has worked as an adoption advocate with various organizations including Raise a Child. In addition, Joyner will be co-hosting season two of TLC’s “This Is Life Live” beginning May 13. Joyner has worked at KTTV-TV and KCBS-TV as a producer and entertainment reporter, and has hosted “NFL This Morning,” ABC’s “Find My Family,” and TV Guide Channel’s “InFanity.” She is also part of a mentoring group for the San Fernando Valley Rescue Mission and sits on a committee that helps to foster inclusion and diversity in school.

Local and student award winners will be recognized at the Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 27 at Cipriani in New York City. Please visit allwomeninmedia.org to view the complete list of the 2018 Gracie Awards winners.

To apply for media credentials, please visit https://goo.gl/forms/E7s661xKhaIQfoP32.

 

Becky Brooks

April, 2018

Uncategorized

Paying it Forward

By Rashida Jones, senior vice president for specials at NBC News and MSNBC, and 2018 Gracie Ambassador

If we’ve learned anything in the last year, we learned the power of the female voice. The power of a unified effort and how it can make change. It’s lead to change in our industry and forced organizations to take a critical look at practices that had been standard for decades. The tide is shifting. You can feel the energy change. It’s happening.

Women are demanding greater focus towards equality. People are listening. I believe the next step of this cause is far more introspective. What can YOU do to pay it forward? What can YOU do to empower someone else? How can YOU reach back to pull someone else up? The core mission of the Alliance of Women in Media is “supporting women across all media segments, to expand networks, educate and celebrate accomplishments.” How can YOU magnify that mission? After a year of the #MeToo revolution, this summer has the potential to be the year of the woman. I challenge each of you do to something mindful and intentional to pull someone else up.

  • Mentor a woman with high potential.
  • Speak to a group of upcoming media professionals.
  • Donate to an organization that supports women in media.
  • Host a networking event pairing established women in media with more junior professionals.
  • Do something to deliberately impart your knowledge to someone who could use it.
  • Believe in someone who needs that kind of support.

These types of acts can be life and career changing.

A few years ago I started a blog (newsroomnotes.com) to share advice with early career journalists. It was the career advice I wished I could tell my 25 year old self. It wasn’t enough; I continue to search for ways to pay it forward. The Alliance for Women in Media does exemplary work in this space. I am overwhelmingly impressed by this organization’s commitment to supporting and developing women in media and am incredibly excited to join as a Gracies Ambassador.

May the Summer of 2018 be the summer of the woman, because of the efforts we have all done to pay it forward.

Becky Brooks

April, 2018

Uncategorized

43rd Annual Gracie Awards Winners Announced by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation

HODA KOTB, ISSA RAE, JULIA LOUIS-DREYFUS, KATIE COURIC, MEGAN MULLALLY, PAM OLIVER, REESE WITHERSPOON, AND SHIRLEY STRAWBERRY AMONG HONOREES; CEREMONY TO TAKE PLACE MAY 22 IN LOS ANGELES

 

Local and Student Award Winners to be Honored at the Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 27 in New York City

LOS ANGELES (April 17, 2018) – The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) announced the winners of the 43rd annual Gracie Awards to take place May 22 at the Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles. The event will recognize such esteemed honorees as Ashley Judd, Billie Jean King, Claire Danes, Elizabeth Marvel, Hoda Kotb, Issa Rae, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Katie Couric, Megan Mullally, Pam Oliver, Reese Witherspoon, and Shirley Strawberry, along with some of the most talented women in television, radio and digital media. Local and student award winners will be recognized at the Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 27 at Cipriani in New York City.

“In a historic and momentous year for women, on and off the camera and in front of and behind the microphone, the Gracie Awards arrive at an important time to celebrate the storytellers who are changing the narrative and pushing boundaries in the quest toward diversity and equality,” said AWMF Chair Christine Travaglini, President, Katz Radio Group. “And as we enter our 43rd year, we at AWM, through the Gracies, are incredibly proud help usher in a new era by honoring and celebrating outstanding talent and content for, by and about women.”

In the third 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 opportunity for future generations.

2018 Gracies Winners
 

 

 

 

Becky Brooks

April, 2018

Uncategorized

Alliance for Women in Media Foundation Acknowledges 2018 Gracie Ambassador

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) is pleased to partner with Rashida Jones, senior vice president for specials at NBC News and MSNBC, as its newest 2018 Gracie Ambassador.

“The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation creates educational programs and provides scholarships to benefit the public and women in media, and the Gracies is the largest annual fundraiser that supports the organization,” said Christine Travaglini, president, Katz Media Group, and chair, AWMF board. “We look forward to the input and energy that Rashida will bring to the AWM, the Gracies and this partnership.”

Rashida has nearly two decades of experience in a variety of leadership roles across broadcast, cable and local news. In her current role, she leads breaking news and major event coverage for NBC News and MSNBC. She previously served as managing editor for MSNBC’s Dayside programming, driving the editorial decision-making and coverage for the network during the six hours between 9 am and 3 pm ET. Prior to MSNBC, Rashida was the news director for the NBC affiliate in Columbia, S.C., where she rebuilt the news team to focus on deep investigative reporting. She was also director of live programming at The Weather Channel.

The Gracies Ambassador program at AWMF offers senior executives the opportunity to engage in activities related to AWMF and the annual Gracie Awards. The Gracie Ambassador program offers ways to work together that are exclusive to the Gracie Ambassador partnership level and not available through other sponsorships of the Gracies or AWMF.

Amy Burton

October, 2024

Blog, Press Release, The Gracies

AWM Foundation Announces Call for Entries for Historic 50th Annual Gracie Awards

The Gracie Awards, presented by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF), is proud to open the call for entries for the milestone 50th Annual Gracie Awards.

“For half a century, the Gracie Awards have celebrated the groundbreaking contributions of women in media, serving as a beacon for exceptional content created by, for, and about women. We are thrilled to mark this 50th milestone and honor those shaping the future of news and entertainment,” says Becky Brooks, President of AWMF. “This event is also our primary annual fundraiser, enabling the Foundation to advance women in media through essential scholarships and programming.”

The 50th Annual Gracie Awards will once again shine a spotlight on exceptional talent across various media categories, including radio, television, streaming, and podcasting, from writers, journalists and actors to technical categories, including producers, directors and showrunners. Entries are invited from media professionals, networks, and organizations, showcasing their dedication to advancing the portrayal and representation of women’s voices in media content.

National winners will be honored at the Gracies Gala on May 20, 2025, at the Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills, and local and student winners at the Gracies Luncheon on June 18, 2025, at Cipriani 42nd in New York.

Taking on the critical roles of co-chairs for the 2025 Gracie Awards are Heather Cohen, President at The Weiss Agency, Annie Howell, Chief Communications Officer at Hallmark Media, and Mike McVay, President of McVay Media Consulting.

Key Information for Submissions:

  • Eligibility Air Dates Period: January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024.
  • Early Bird Submission Deadline: December 12, 2024
  • Deadline for All Entries: January 23, 2025
  • Submission Guidelines including updated Categories and Entry Forms: https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/call-for-entries/

New Categories:

For 2025, the Gracie Awards are excited to introduce several new and updated categories reflecting the ever-evolving media landscape. These include a new category for Podcast Writer in Digital Media, Audio Book Individual (Narrator/Producer) in Digital Media, and a Women’s Health News Feature/Series in Television Local. Additionally, creators of video podcasts are encouraged to submit their entries in the updated Original Online Programming – Standalone Video or Video Series category in Digital Media.

NCTA – The Internet and Television Association, in partnership with the AWM Foundation, is offering scholarships to cover the cost of a Gracie Awards entry for content creators. Scholarships are available to students and professionals.

Please join us in celebrating 50 years of advancing all women in media by supporting the AWM Foundation. Whether through sponsorship, participation, or promotion, you and your company can help shape the future of media and storytelling for the next 50 years. Contact becky.brooks@allwomeninmedia.org for ways to impact women in media.

All information related to the Call for Entries can be found at https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/call-for-entries/.

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 InstagramXLinkedIn and Facebook. For more information visit www.allwomeninmedia.org/gracies.

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 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. For the latest news on the Gracies, follow The Gracies on InstagramXLinkedIn and Facebook.

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Media Contact:
Jenny Ditto 
859.514.3008
jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org

Amy Burton

September, 2024

Blog, Gracies Leadership Award, Press Release

Alliance for Women in Media Unveils 2024 Gracies Leadership Award Honorees

Sylvia Strobel to Receive AWM Legacy Leadership Award

The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) proudly announces the exceptional women who will be recognized for their visionary leadership at the Gracies Leadership Awards. This event, dedicated to celebrating the achievements and impact of women in media, will take place on Tuesday, November 19, at Tribeca 360° in New York City.

The 2024 honorees represent a formidable group of industry leaders:

  • Sylvia Bugg, Chief Programming Executive & GM, PBS
  • Sonia Coleman, SEVP & Chief Human Resources Officer, The Walt Disney Company
  • Jennifer Leimgruber, EVP Entertainment Programming, Premiere Networks/iHeartMedia
  • Deborah Parenti, President & Publisher, Streamline Media (Radio Ink, RBR + TVBR)
  • Jen Sargent, CEO, Wondery
  • Holly Tang, CFO, NBCUniversal Entertainment

In addition to these leaders, AWM will present the esteemed Legacy Leadership Award to Sylvia Strobel, President & CEO of Twin Cities PBS. This award honors her profound contributions to AWM and her dedicated service in leadership roles, including her tenure as past AWM Chair.

AWM/F President Becky Brooks stated, “The Gracies Leadership Awards celebrate the women who are shaping the future of media through their vision, innovation and leadership. This year’s honorees are trailblazers driving transformation in an ever-evolving industry.” Brooks continued, “As we approach the milestone 50th anniversary of the Gracie Awards in 2025, we are reminded of the Gracies enduring legacy and our ongoing mission to advance women in media.”

The luncheon will also shine a spotlight on the next generation through the AWM Foundation Student Fellowships. Female students majoring in journalism will have the opportunity to attend the 2024 Gracie Leadership Awards. Fellowship applications are currently open and the deadline to apply is October 4, 2024.

Special thanks to sponsors of the Gracies Leadership Awards including, Clear Channel Outdoor, Katz Media Group, KPMG, NCTA – The Internet & Television Association and Premiere Networks.

For more information about the Alliance for Women in Media and the Gracies Leadership Awards, please visit allwomeninmedia.org

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.

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Media Contact:
Jenny Ditto 
859.514.3008
jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org

Amy Burton

July, 2024

AWM Foundation, Blog, Press Release, The Gracies

AWM Foundation Announces Dates for Milestone 50th Gracie Awards and Commemorative Logo

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) is proud to release the dates for the highly anticipated 50th Annual Gracie Awards, to celebrate half a century of honoring excellence of women in media.

The 2025 Gracie Awards will be a landmark celebration featuring two marquee events:

  • Gracies Gala: May 20, 2025, at the iconic Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills.
  • Gracies Luncheon: June 18, 2025, at the prestigious Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City.

In commemoration of this golden milestone, AWMF is also unveiling a newly refreshed logo for the 50th Gracie Awards, embodying the spirit of strength, innovation, and connection.

Becky Brooks, President of AWMF shared, “As we approach the 50th Annual Gracie Awards, we reflect on five decades of tremendous progress made in advancing women in media. The Gracies have been a beacon of recognition for the incredible talents and contributions of women in our industry. Next year’s celebration is not only a tribute to our past but also a spotlight on the bright future ahead. We are eager to honor the trailblazers who have paved the way and the rising stars who continue to shape the media landscape.”

The Gracie Awards were established in 1975 to recognize individual achievement and exemplary programing created by, for, and about women. The awards are celebrated with an evening event, the Gracies Gala, on the West Coast where national awards are recognized, and the Gracies Luncheon on the East Coast with local and student awards.

Call for Entries: The Call for Entries for the 50th Gracie Awards will open in October 2024. Stay tuned for more details.

For more information about the Gracie Awards, please visit https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/ or contact Jenny Ditto at Jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org. Jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org.

About The Gracie Awards
The Gracie Awards is the largest fundraiser of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation which advances women in media through educational programs and scholarships. The Gracie Awards honors exemplary programming and individual talent created by, for and about women. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has created partnerships and joint initiatives with the Emma Bowen Foundation, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), NCTA – The 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. For the latest news on the Gracies, follow The Gracies on InstagramXLinkedIn and Facebook.

Amy Burton

July, 2024

AWM Foundation, Press Release

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.

Amy Burton

July, 2024

AWM Foundation, Blog, Press Release

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 50th 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 InstagramXLinkedIn and Facebook. For more information visit www.allwomeninmedia.org/gracies.

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Press Contacts
Jenny Ditto
jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org

Amy Burton

June, 2024

AWM Foundation, Blog, Press Release, The Gracies

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 42nd 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 49th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon at Cipriani 42nd 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 50th 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 WFANsaid, “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

Amy Burton

June, 2024

AWM Foundation, Press Release, The Gracies

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

Amy Burton

May, 2024

AWM Foundation, Press Release, The Gracies

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.

BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – MAY 21: Carol Burnett attends the 49th Annual Gracie Awards, hosted by The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation at the Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire Hotel on May 21, 2024 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Alliance for Women in Media Foundation)

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

Amy Burton

May, 2024

AWM Foundation, Press Release, The Gracies

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.

# # #

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