Marine Saint’s Experience at the 2023 Gracies Leadership Award

Attending this year’s Alliance for Women in Media Gracies Leadership Awards was a truly unique opportunity to learn from the trailblazing women in the media industry. I felt I was able to create a new network which fosters development and guidance in this field. Hearing the wisdom and journeys of the honorees was especially inspiring and motivated me and my fellow Google News Initiative student fellows to follow in the footsteps of the women at the event.

It was a palpably empowering atmosphere, emphasizing the importance of a strong team to achieve your goals and the power of having people to guide you in your career path. I was struck by the words of honoree Rashida Jones, President of MSNBC, who reflected that while there are still more ceilings to be broken in this industry for women and diversifying representation, it is a goal we can achieve if we support one another. Jones told us how ‘Being first is an honor- but no one ascends alone.’ These words reminded me that such celebrations of women and the AWM’s work nurturing the progression of women in media are so crucial to continuing to break barriers in the industry. I felt thoroughly inspired and motivated to take this advice back to my own community and that there was hope for the future of women in the field of journalism. I was exposed to a wealth of career opportunities where leadership as a woman was not only possible but heartily encouraged and left with the sentiment of such great admiration for all the tireless work of the honorees to diversify, innovate, and mentor women in their workplace.

‘Courage is the root of change.’ These words from Kay Olin, winner of the Legacy Leadership Award, was one of the key messages which most resonated with me over the course of the event. As attendees and part of the welcoming and uplifting community provided by the AWM, we were reminded that we should not be afraid to be bosses of our industry and that we, as women in media, have a duty to support and guide the development of future leaders. I am very grateful to have received the GNI Fellowship to attend the Gracies Leadership Awards and know that the lessons I learnt from the inspiring honorees will stay with me throughout my future endeavors in journalism.

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

Amber Tai’s Experience at the 2023 Gracies Leadership Award

As I stood in front of the elevator, my palms became clammy with nervousness. Hesitating for a moment, I finally pressed the button to the top floor of Tribeca 360. The anticipation was almost overwhelming as the elevator ascended slowly. Being an international student who had only arrived in the United States three months ago, I felt a mix of excitement and apprehension about the experience ahead.

When the elevator doors opened, I was greeted by a breathtaking view of the city skyline. Yet, even more impressive were the women I had come to see. They radiated confidence and expertise, inspiring me with their presence. Navigating through the event, I felt an immense sense of gratitude for being among such accomplished individuals. It was a dream come true to be part of this community and witness their success firsthand.

The Gracies Leadership Award event was more than just a ceremony; it was a symphony of voices, each narrating a unique story of struggle, triumph, and unwavering commitment to media excellence. The honorees, beacons in their respective fields, shared insights that resonated deeply.

Kay Olin, an icon in radio broadcasting, was the first I spoke to. She greeted me with a warm smile and listened intently to my background. In her award acceptance speech, she painted a picture of a journey marked by resilience and a passion for media. She emphasized the importance of mentorship, reflecting on her experiences as both a mentor and a mentee. Kay’s words were a powerful reminder that leadership in media is about elevating others as you ascend. Her speech moved me profoundly.

Rashida Jones, a trailblazer in news media, shared her vision of leadership that transcends traditional boundaries. Her powerful speech testified to the impact of diverse voices in shaping media narratives. Rashida’s ascent to President of MSNBC was not just a personal achievement but a significant breakthrough for women in leadership roles across the industry.

Rosalyn Durant, Executive Vice President at ESPN, added another layer to the narrative. Her speech focused on the dynamic and evolving nature of the media industry and the critical role of adaptability and innovation in driving success. Rosalyn’s journey in the traditionally male-dominated sports media landscape highlighted the importance of perseverance and breaking barriers. Her message was unequivocal: embracing change and challenging the status quo are vital for progress.

A common theme in all the speeches was the emphasis on change and evolution in the media industry. The honorees spoke of the challenges they faced, not just as professionals but as women in a competitive and often unforgiving landscape. They underscored the need for courage in confronting external barriers and personal limitations.

The speeches also celebrated the collective strength of women in media. The honorees acknowledged their responsibility to the next generation, emphasizing the need to create opportunities and foster an environment where young women can thrive and lead.

In conclusion, the acceptance speeches at the Gracies Leadership Award event were more than expressions of gratitude; they were a call to action. They urged us to embrace change, support one another, and continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible for women in media. The event was a reminder that while the journey towards gender equality in media is ongoing, the strides made by these remarkable women have laid a strong foundation for future generations.

Towards the end of the event, I found myself standing beside the stage, hoping for a chance to speak with any of the recipients. Fortunately, I met Durant and introduced myself. Far from being standoffish, she listened to my words earnestly and offered practical and insightful suggestions about navigating the industry in America. She encouraged me to pursue my passion relentlessly and to never give up, regardless of the challenges ahead.

I left the event feeling inspired and motivated, with a renewed sense of purpose. I realized that connecting with industry experts like Durant was crucial to my success, and that networking and building relationships were essential parts of the journey. I was grateful for the encounter and the valuable advice I received, knowing it would stay with me for a long time.

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

Alliance for Women in Media Foundation Extends Deadline for 2024 Gracie Award Entries

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) is pleased to announce that the deadline to submit entries for the 49^th Annual Gracie Awards has been extended through January 25, 2024 (11:59 pm ET). The regular deadline, with no additional fee, is January 18, 2024 (11:59 pm ET). The Gracie Awards, presented by AWMF, has recognized programming and individual achievement by women across all media for nearly five decades.  Submissions from television, streaming, radio, audio, and digital media are encouraged. A full list of the categories, including new categories for 2024 can be found here.

“It has undoubtedly been a unique year in our industry, and the dedication to continue producing outstanding content by, for, and about women is something to be celebrated,” Top of Formsays Becky Brooks, AWMF president.

The Gracie Awards are also honored to have the leadership of Ms. Heather Cohen, 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 Gracie Awards Gala will be May 21 at the iconic Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire hotel and the Gracie Awards Luncheon will be held on June 18 at Cipriani 42^nd Street, New York.

The 2024 Gracie Awards entry eligibility air dates are from January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2023. Entry details, including pricing and updated categories, can be viewed at https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/call-for-entries/.

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

Press Contact
Jenny Ditto
Awards and Public Relations Manager
jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org
Ph: 859.514.3008

AWM 2023 Year in Review

2023 has proven that the only thing predictable in the world of media is the unpredictability. As I look back at previous year’s Year in Review– that’s been a theme many times and held true again. There have been ups and downs, advertising uncertainty, volatility in the market – all the while holding onto hope of possibilities for a stable 24.

The SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes gave the public a glimpse into the world of media. While late-night television was dark, news was on, which created curiosity and confusion for the public but opportunity to better understand how partnerships work. One of many key topics was muddling through how to “work with AI” while the pace of use and implementation was accelerating. Other industries will have the gift of hindsight to view what our industry did as a case study.

While every facet of media has been touched by emotional swings in 2023, that are sure to continue in 2024, what holds true is resiliency of our people. Talent in front of and behind the camera and microphones are consistently telling the stories – for entertainment when we need a break, news when we need to understand.  

AWM has been celebrating these storytellers for nearly fifty years. This year, we added a record number of members, created two new programs including our Member Networks and AWM Coaching all while continuing to host our Gracie Interview Series, offering ongoing education through webinars and an exclusive panel on “Turn Job Loss into Career Advancement”. At a time when females behind the camera and microphone had a lack of recognition, we produced a Directors Tribute at the Gracie Awards. Take a few minutes to watch seeing the impact women have had for years on storytelling.

I am still in awe of the bravery it took for a group of women, who were part of NAB (National Association of Broadcasters), to sign AWM into existence more than 70 years ago and then creating an awards program to celebrate the programming and individual talent created by, for and about women. Therefore, despite a year of unpredictability for AWM, the mission of advancing women in media continued.

The AWM leadership – including the boards of directors for our association and foundation are unmatched. Their tireless efforts to grow AWM are having an impact for the future of women in media. We ask you to join, donate and engage – stay connected as we head into another year with unpredictability being very predictable.

I’m looking forward to recharging my battery over the holidays with my family. With two active teenagers at home, as so many can appreciate, integrating work into time with our kids is fulfilling and exhausting. I’m a better mom and steward to AWM with organized chaos but looking forward to watching/listening to all the highlights from television, streaming, radio and audio I’ve missed!  

Cheers to a fabulous 24!

As we say at the close of our events
Good night, Gracie!
Becky Brooks
(Proudly) President, AWM & Foundation

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation Urges Year-End Support for Giving Tuesday

As the year draws to a close, the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF), the philanthropic arm of the Alliance for Women in Media (AWM), is reaching out to its community to rally behind the mission of advancing women in media through educational programs and scholarships. AWMF is gearing up for the season of giving and Giving Tuesday on November 28, urging contributions to sustain the Foundation’s impactful initiatives.

How You Can Support:

• Make a Donation: Visit https://allwomeninmedia.org/foundation/make-a-donation/ to make a tax-deductible donation. Your contribution will directly impact the lives of women in media through scholarships, educational programs and giving scholarships for Gracie Award Entries.
• Spread the Message: Use your voice on social media to spread awareness about AWMF’s mission. Share personal stories, experiences, and the impact of supporting women in media using the hashtags #AWMFGivingTuesday and #GivingTuesday.
• Partner with AWMF: Partner with AWMF to amplify the impact of your commitment to advancing women in media. Visit Sponsorship — (allwomeninmedia.org), to learn more.
• AWMF Events: Engage by participating in upcoming programs like AWM Coaching, AWM Connects, and Gracie Interview Series.

Celebrating Past Scholarships: AWMF takes pride in its scholarship programs, which support students pursuing careers in media and journalism. These scholarships not only provide financial assistance but also open doors for young women to reach their full potential in the media industry. In 2023 alone, the AWMF provided The AWMF and Podcast Movement Scholarship, AWMF Scholarship in Honor of Barbara Walters, The AWMF & NCTA Scholarship and The ESPN Scholarship.

AWMF’s commitment to recognizing and empowering future generations of women in media remains steadfast, and supporting AWMF on Giving Tuesday and through year-end giving will ensure the continuation of these vital initiatives.

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For media inquiries or additional information about The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation, please contact:

Jenny Ditto
Awards & Public Relations Manager
Ph: 513.407.3637
jenny.ditto@allwomeninmedia.org

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

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

Photos from the event can be found here.

November 13, 2023 (New York, NY) – The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) hosted the Gracies Leadership Awards luncheon, on Monday, November 13 at Tribeca 360° in New York City, recognizing the outstanding contributions of eight remarkable female leaders. This year, the event ushered in a new era featuring the Inaugural Gracies Icon Award recipient, Delilah, who’s inspiring life and career was highlighted with a captivating fireside chat alongside Erica Farber, President & CEO, Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB).

“Very few people in the world are known by one name, and here we have Delilah.”  When asked her thoughts on receiving the first ever Gracies Icon Award, Delilah exclaimed, “I am so blessed and so honored and thank you… I won a Gracie years ago and I thought that was the top for me.”

The eight honorees represent a diverse array of talents and achievements across various media platforms, ranging from broadcasting to digital media. Their stories serve as an inspiration to aspiring female leaders, including students attending as part of the Google News Initiative Fellowship, encouraging them to break barriers and make a lasting impact.

Highlights from the speeches include:

• Kay Olin, AWM Legacy Leadership Award recipient, began her remarks by saying, “Thank you seems like such an inadequate word to express how honored I am today…the only thing better than awarding a Gracie, is receiving one.” Olin continued, “The most humbling thing about standing here and accepting this award, it’s not about one person, leadership is a shared experience, it’s teamwork—to my village, I say Thank You.”
• Susan Larkin, Chief Operating Officer, Audacy, began her acceptance noting, “There’s two words that you’ll hear through my remarks, gratitude and team… we know as leaders, we don’t do this ourselves.”
• In accepting the honor, Rashida Jones, President, MSNBC, said, “We are leaders here, for a mission and with a responsibility… while becoming the first in anything is an incredible honor, and one that I take very seriously, I know for a fact no one ascends on their own. It takes a village of supporters, mentors and sponsors for each one of us to get here, and I’ve been lucky to have a host of mentors, many of them women, but even luckier to be a mentor… because it’s important to pay it forward.”
• Suzanne Grimes, President, Westwood One and EVP of Corporate Marketing at Cumulus Media, highlighted a previous battle with breast cancer and pivotal life event, noting the frequent stigma around women’s health issues and proudly stated, “as women and leaders we have the power to change this dynamic.” 
• Rebekah Dopp, Executive Vice President, Distribution, Strategy and Affiliate Relations, The CW, concluded her acceptance by emphasizing, “Our industry and the work that we do is critical. Everyone belongs here and our industry must reflect the society we live in… in this circle, let’s continue to celebrate what unites us and overcome what divides us.”
• Rosalyn Durant, Executive Vice President, Programming & Acquisitions, ESPN proudly pointed out, “Over half the executives at ESPN’s table are women, let us acknowledge that is what true leadership looks like, and that’s what real change agency looks like.”
• Lori Locke, Executive Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer, Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), expressed gratitude “I want to thank my work colleagues at Warner Bros Discovery, some of those are here to support me, we make an incredible team together… #oneteam I am committed to upholding the principles ­­­­­of leadership that this Gracie Award represents.”

“This room is unique, bringing together leaders from television, streaming, radio, audio and digital medias in one space… the only experience of its kind.” said Becky Brooks, President, AWM/F.

 “We exist to connect, recognize and inspire women across our industry. This program is one of my favorite events as it reflects those three pillars,” added Heather Cohen, Immediate Past Chair, AWM/F and President, The Weiss Agency. “Each of these women have such a tremendous impact on our industry. They all have accolades and accomplishments, and we have an opportunity to hear from each one personally… and notable today, what an honor to have Delilah, one of the greatest in our business, as our inaugural Gracies Icon Award recipient.”

Throughout the event, the common themes of lifting the next generation, that achievement happens through nurturing relationships and building great teams were reiterated and reflect AWM’s mission of connecting, recognizing and educating women in media.

Sponsors of the event include: Audacy, Clear Channel Outdoor, Cumulus Media, ESPN, Exponent, Google News Initiative, Katz Media Group, KPMG, NBC Universal News Group, NCTA-The Internet & Television Association, Warner Bros. Discovery, Westwood One, and WideOrbit.

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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

Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) Partners with the International Coaching Federation Foundation (ICF) to Offer Exclusive AWM Coaching Program

The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) is proud to announce a new partnership with the International Coaching Federation Foundation (ICF). This collaboration will provide AWM members with the unique opportunity to access professional coaching at an exclusive discounted rate.

Program Overview: Through the AWM Coaching program, participants will be paired with a credentialed coach, holding the titles of Associate (ACC), Professional (PCC), or Master Certified Coaches (MCC). These ICF Credential-holders have completed rigorous education and practice requirements, emphasizing their commitment to excellence in coaching. Participants in the AWM Coaching program can anticipate a series of six to ten coaching sessions with their individual ICF Coach, ensuring a productive and tailored coaching experience. The schedule and goals for these coaching sessions will be established between the coach and participant.

Information Session: Discover the tremendous value of ICF professional coaching by joining on November 30 at 2 pm ET for an informational webinar. Register for the event here.

Application Deadline: To take advantage of this exceptional member benefit, submit your application for the AWM Coaching program by the application deadline of 5 pm ET on December 8, 2023.

Why AWM Coaching: To continue the Alliance for Women in Media’s mission of over 70 years advancing women in media, AWM Coaching serves to provide its membership the benefit of boosting their personal and professional growth in the media industry through the transformative power of professional coaching.

49th ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS CALL FOR ENTRIES ANNOUNCED BY THE ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION

October 12, 2023 – The Gracie Awards, presented by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF), is proud to open the call for entries for the 49^th Annual Gracie Awards.

“For nearly five decades, The Gracie Awards have illuminated the trailblazing work of women in media and stand as a tribute to exceptional content produced by, for, and about women and we look forward to celebrating and honoring those who continue to shape the landscape of news and entertainment,” affirms Becky Brooks, President of AWMF. “As our primary annual fundraising event, the Gracies empower the Foundation to fulfill its mission of advancing women in media through scholarships and programming.

The 49th Annual Gracie Awards will once again shine a spotlight on exceptional talent across various media categories, including radio, television, streaming, and podcasting, from creatives, including writers, broadcast 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.

Once again taking on the roles of co-chairs for the 2024 Gracie Awards are Heather Cohen, Executive Vice President at The Weiss Agency, Annie Howell, Chief Communications Officer at Hallmark Media, and Mike McVay, President of McVay Media Consulting. Vicangelo Bulluck, an Emmy Award-winning industry veteran with extensive experience in awards production, has been at the helm of the Gracie Awards since 2016 and will continue to serve as the producer for the 2024 Gracie Awards.

Key Information for Submissions:

• Eligibility Air Dates Period: January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023.
• Early Bird Submission Deadline: December 14, 2023
• Deadline for All Entries: January 18, 2024
• Submission Guidelines including updated Categories and Entry Forms: 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 Alliance for Women in Media Foundation supports and promotes educational programs, charitable activities and scholarships to benefit the public and media industry. The Foundation also produces nationally acclaimed recognition programs, including the Gracie Awards®, honoring exemplary programming created by, for or about women and individual achievement. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit, educational organization. For the latest news on the Gracies, follow The Gracies on Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook. For more information about the Gracie Awards and to submit your entries, please visit www.allwomeninmedia.org/gracies.

About The Gracie Awards

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

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Media Contact:
Jenny Ditto 
859.514.3008
jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org

Alliance for Women in Media Announces Radio Legend Delilah as Inaugural Recipient of the Gracies Icon Award

October 10, 2023 – The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) is proud to announce radio legend Delilah will be honored with the inaugural Gracies Icon Award at the 2023 Gracies Leadership Awards. Delilah, often referred to as the “Oprah of Radio,” will be celebrated for her outstanding contributions to the world of radio and her unwavering commitment to uplifting and empowering listeners.

“We are thrilled to present the first-ever Gracies Icon Award to Delilah,” said Becky Brooks, President of the Alliance for Women in Media. “Delilah’s remarkable career in broadcasting has been a source inspiration and empowerment for countless women in the industry. Her commitment to connecting with her audience through the airwaves is truly exceptional. Delilah embodies the spirit of the Gracie Awards, and we are honored to celebrate her achievements at this year’s event.”

With a career spanning over three decades, Delilah has captured the hearts of millions with her soothing voice, open heart, and love for music. She currently holds the title of the most-listened-to woman on radio in the United States.

Delilah’s career has garnered numerous accolades, including her induction into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2016 and the prestigious National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Broadcast Hall of Fame in 2017. Her induction into the NAB Broadcast Hall of Fame was a historic moment, marking the first time in 35 years that a woman received such a distinction. Delilah also earned a coveted Marconi Award for “Network/Syndicated Personality of the Year” from the NAB in 2016. Furthermore, she is a regular recipient of the “Most Influential Women in Radio” honor by Radio Ink and previously received the “Outstanding Host Entertainment/Information” award at the Alliance for Women in Media’s 37th Annual Gracie Awards Gala.

Delilah’s unique blend of storytelling, empathetic listening, and encouragement, all accompanied by adult contemporary music, has made her a top-ranked radio host with both female and male listeners in cities across the nation. She has described her show as a “safety zone where listeners take off their armor, slip into a ‘Mr. Rogers’ cardigan, sit around the electronic hearth, and share their secrets.”

In addition to her illustrious on-air radio career, Delilah is an author and also a radio station owner, purchasing the radio station that provided her with her broadcasting start at age 14, KDUN AM in Reedsport, Oregon, in 2021.The station was bankrupt at the time of her purchase, providing her an opportunity to restore the only local market media resource to the community.

Beyond her work in radio and writing, Delilah’s dedication to improving the lives of children is truly remarkable. As a mother of 15 children, 12 of whom she adopted, she founded the Point Hope foundation in 2004 as a voice for forgotten children worldwide.

The Gracies Icon Award celebrates Delilah’s outstanding career, dedication to her listeners, and her relentless commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others. AWM is proud to honor her at the Gracies Leadership Awards on November 13 at Tribeca 360° in New York City, alongside previously announced honorees, Rebekah Dopp, Rosalyn Durant, Suzanne Grimes, Rashida Jones, Susan Larkin, Lori Locke, and Kay Olin.

Special thanks to sponsors of the Gracies Leadership Awards including, Audacy, Clear Channel Outdoor, Cumulus Media/Westwood One, ESPN, Google News Initiative, Katz Media Group, NBCUniversal News Group, NCTA – The Internet & Television Association, and WideOrbit.

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

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA ANNOUNCES GRACIES LEADERSHIP AWARDS TO HONOR SIX WOMEN IN MEDIA

Kay Olin to Receive AWM Legacy Leadership Award November 13 at Tribeca 360° New York

October 5, 2023 – The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) proudly announces the distinguished recipients of the 2023 Gracies Leadership Awards, celebrating the remarkable achievements and groundbreaking contributions of women in leadership.

The awards luncheon will take place at Tribeca 360° in New York on Monday, November 13, promising an unforgettable afternoon celebrating the accomplishments of these extraordinary women and their collective influence on future generations.

This year’s honorees represent a formidable group of industry leaders:

1. Rebekah Dopp, EVP, Distribution, Strategy & Affiliate Relations, The CW
2. Rosalyn Durant, EVP, Programming and Acquisitions, ESPN
3. Suzanne Grimes, President Westwood One and EVP Corporate Marketing, Cumulus Media
4. Rashida Jones, President, MSNBC
5. Susan Larkin, COO, Audacy
6. Lori Locke, EVP and Chief Accounting Officer, Warner Bros. Discovery

In addition to honoring these exemplary leaders, AWM will recognize Kay Olin, Owner and President of Olin and Associates, and former President of Local Focus, with the Legacy Leadership Award. This award acknowledges her profound impact on the organization and her distinguished service in leadership roles, including her tenure as past AWM Chair.

Becky Brooks, President of the Alliance for Women in Media, remarked, “We are immensely proud to honor these leaders in media who have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also served as beacons of inspiration for future generations. Their unwavering dedication to shaping the media landscape with inclusivity and innovation makes them true leaders in every sense. We look forward to celebrating their outstanding achievements at the Gracies Leadership Awards, as they continue to illuminate and advance the path forward for all women in media.”

Special thanks to sponsors of the Gracies Leadership Awards including Audacy, Clear Channel Outdoor, ESPN, Google News Initiative, Katz Media Group, NBCUniversal News Group, NCTA – The Internet & Television Association, Westwood One and WideOrbit.

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