Amy Burton

March, 2025

AWM Foundation, Blog, Press Release, The Gracies

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation Announces the 2025 Board of Directors & Officers

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) proudly introduces its 2025 Board of Directors. “As we approach the milestone 50th anniversary of the Gracie Awards—celebrating five decades of honoring the remarkable contributions of women in media—strong, visionary leadership is essential,” said Becky Brooks, President of AWMF. “With the talent and commitment of this year’s Board, we are well-positioned to continue empowering and advancing women in media, ensuring the Foundation’s mission thrives for generations to come.”

OFFICER ROLES

  • Katina Arnold, Chair, Vice President, Corporate Communications, ESPN
  • Monica Bloom, Incoming/Vice Chair, Chief Marketing Officer, Kino Lorber Media Group
  • Annie Howell, Immediate Past Chair, Chief Communications Officer, Hallmark Media
  • Catherine Badalamente, Treasurer, President & CEO, Graham Media Group
  • Marie Tedesco, Treasurer-Elect, Former Chief Financial Officer, Beasley Media Group (Retired)

AWM FOUNDATION BOARD

  • Kenetta Bailey, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Clear Channel Outdoor
  • Tim Clarke, Strategic Advisor and Consultant
  • Heather Cohen, President, The Weiss Agency
  • Mike McVay, President, McVay Media Consulting
  • Christine Travaglini, President, Katz Radio Group

Board photos and bios can be found on the AWM website. The AWM Board of Directors was previously announce and can be found here.

The AWM Foundation is proud to present the 50th anniversary Gracie Awards in 2025. A tremendous legacy of honoring content creators in television, streaming, radio, audio and digital platforms. Serving again as Gracies Co-Chairs will be Heather Cohen, Annie Howell and Mike McVay whose impact on the awards has been felt for many years. Gracie Award winners will be announced on Tuesday, March 25.

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

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About the Alliance for Women in Media 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.

Media Contact:
Jenny Rayyan
Awards and Public Relations Manager
jennyrayyan@allwomeninmedia.org
1.859.514.3008

Amy Burton

January, 2025

AWM Foundation, Blog, Press Release, The Gracies

Final Week to Enter the Landmark 50th Gracie Awards

What: The final opportunity to submit entries for the milestone 50th Gracie Awards is here! The Gracie Awards, presented by the AWM Foundation, recognize outstanding programming created by, for, and about women across all facets of media, news and entertainment.

The Gracies recognize contributions from journalists, actors, hosts, producers, showrunners, writers, directors, and other roles that bring impactful stories to life. Each entry directly supports the AWM Foundation, with the Gracies serving as the largest fundraiser of the year.

Final Entry Deadline: Thursday, February 6, (11:59pm ET)

Where: Submit entries at allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/call-for-entries

Why: For five decades, the Gracie Awards have set the gold standard in honoring women’s contributions to media. Named after the legendary Gracie Allen, this prestigious award celebrates trailblazers who are shaping the future of media and amplifying women’s voices across all platforms. Now more than ever, celebrating women’s voices, leadership, and achievements in media is essential.

Questions? The AWM team is here to help! Contact gracies@allwomeninmedia.org for assistance.

Don’t miss this chance to be part of history—submit your entry today!

Media Contact:
Jenny Ditto
Awards & Public Relations Manager
jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org

Amy Burton

January, 2025

AWM Foundation, Blog, Press Release, The Gracies

AWM Foundation Extends Deadline for 50th Gracie Awards Entries

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) has announced an extension for submissions to the milestone 50th Gracie Awards. The extended deadline is February 6, 2025, while the regular deadline, with no additional fee, is January 30, 2025.  

In light of the ongoing challenges caused by the catastrophic wildfires in Los Angeles and surrounding areas, AWMF expresses its solidarity with all those affected. Becky Brooks, President of AWM, stated:

“Our leadership and staff want to express our heartfelt concern for everyone affected by the devastating wildfires, including the media professionals tirelessly covering this crisis while managing their own personal hardships. As we continue to accept submissions for the 50th Gracie Awards, we remain deeply committed to honoring the exceptional achievements of women in media and are fully committed to providing flexibility for those who are impacted by these events. Our thoughts are with the individuals and communities facing this crisis, and we are here to support them in any way we can as they continue their invaluable work.”

The Gracie Awards, presented by AWMF, has recognized programming and individual excellence by women across all media for five decades. Submissions from television, streaming, radio, audio, and digital media are encouraged. A full list of the categories, including new categories for 2025 can be found here.

The Gracie Awards Gala will be May 20 at the iconic Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire hotel and the Gracie Awards Luncheon will be held on June 18 at Cipriani 42nd Street, New York.

The 2025 Gracie Awards entry eligibility air dates are from January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2024. 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 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.

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

Amy Burton

December, 2024

AWM Foundation, Blog, Press Release, The Gracies

Early Bird Deadline for the Milestone 50th Gracie Awards Approaching

The AWM Foundation invites all content creators to submit their exceptional work for the historic 50th Annual Gracie Awards. With the Early Bird Deadline approaching on December 12, 2024, now is the time to take advantage of discounted entry fees and secure your place in celebrating the best in media.

As the Gracie Awards commemorate 50 years of recognizing excellence, it is more important than ever to honor the exceptional talent in front of and behind the camera and microphone across radio, podcasting, television, streaming, and online programs in news and entertainment. The Gracie Awards recognize contributions from journalists, actors, hosts, producers, showrunners, writers, directors, and other roles that bring impactful stories to life. Each entry directly supports the AWM Foundation, with the Gracies serving as the largest fundraiser of the year.

“This year’s milestone celebration reflects our continued commitment to honoring the talent that shapes the stories of our time,” said Becky Brooks, President of the AWM Foundation. “We encourage local media to participate and take advantage of the best rates and prepare to celebrate together in 2025.”

For a complete list of new and updated categories for 2025, pricing, and submission guidelines, please visit https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/call-for-entries/

Questions can be directed to gracies@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.

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Media Contact:
Jenny Ditto
Awards & Public Relations Manager
jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org

Amy Burton

December, 2024

AWM Foundation, Blog, Press Release, The Gracies

Make a Difference: Support the AWM Foundation This Giving Tuesday

“Through this scholarship, I have been given the opportunity to produce one of the biggest projects I have ever done. I never would have dreamed of being able to take on this project without the support of the AWM Foundation.” Helena Arjona, University of Kentucky, 2024 AWM Foundation and NCTA Scholarship Recipient

[December 3, 2024] — As the year comes to a close, the AWM Foundation (AWMF)—the philanthropic arm of the Alliance for Women in Media (AWM)—invites its community to join in supporting the mission to advance women in media through scholarships and educational programs. During this season of giving, including Giving Tuesday, on December 3, your contributions will help sustain and expand the Foundation’s impactful initiatives.

How You Can Support:

  1. 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. As a special thank-you, the first 20 donors who contribute $100 or more will receive an exclusive Gracie Awards tote.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. AWMF Events: Engage by participating in upcoming programs such as the new AWM Media Masterclass and the Gracie Interview Series.

In addition to Giving Tuesday, we are kicking off the 50th anniversary year of the Gracie Awards coming in 2025 with new fundraising levels from Gracie Ambassador to AWM Foundation Fans. For more information, please visit the Gracie Awards support page.

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. Recently, AWMF offered eight AWM Foundation Student Fellows the opportunity toattend the Gracies Leadership Awards in New York.

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
jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org
Ph: 513.407.3637

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.

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