Asha Moore-Smith’s Experience at the 2024 Gracies Leadership Award

On Tuesday Nov. 19 I attended the Gracies Leadership Awards presented by the Alliance for Women in Media at Tribeca 360 in New York City. I was one of 7 women selected for the 2024 Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) Foundation Fellowship. I met students from George Washington University, LIM College, Drake University, and University of Kentucky. We were facilitated by AWM President Becky Brooks, and AWM Director of Awards & Projects, LaTonya Jackson. This was an important opportunity for me that I’m so grateful to have received as a digital media student attending Washington DC’s only public land-grant HBCU.

It was an honor to be in attendance as AWM celebrated the legacy and achievements of eight women who are trailblazing leaders in media, while uplifting and fostering the next generation of women in media. The awardees included NBC’s Andrea Mitchell, whom we met and took a group photo with. While speaking during a special fireside chat with Libby Leist, Executive Vice President of TODAY and Lifestyle, Mitchell gave wonderful advice to students who are upcoming journalists and rising professionals in media. One key takeaway I gleaned from Mitchell’s chat is when she said, “It’s not important to be first, you have to be accurate.”

It’s uplifting to see a diverse group of women and their work being honored at the Gracies Leadership Awards. It was a full circle moment to speak briefly with Rashida Jones, president of MSNBC, who was in attendance, because she was the 2024 commencement speaker for UDC. It was also encouraging to see her there because representation matters. As a black woman who is interested in multimedia storytelling and production, it is very important to see people who look like me in these rooms who are thriving, telling impactful stories, and holding high level positions such as Jones, who is the first black woman to lead a major cable news network. Another one of these women is my professor, Nikole Hannah-Jones whose investigative journalism course I took at Howard University this fall, through the UDC consortium. Though she was not in attendance at the luncheon, it was encouraging to read that she won a Gracie Award in May of this year for her work hosting the 1619 project docuseries.

Through attending this event, I was able to see what is possible for me to achieve as I continue to explore career paths in both digital media and music. I felt immense motivation and welcoming energy from the women I met and shared space with at this special event. Through participating in the Gracies Leadership Awards luncheon and my AWM foundation fellowship, I look forward to fostering lifelong connections with the brilliant women I met and will continue to meet on this journey.

Asha Moore-Smith is a recipient of the 2024 AWM Foundation Student Fellowship. She is studying digital media at the University of the District of Columbia, and we look forward to seeing how she continues to shape the world of media in the future.

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

Photos from the event can be found here.

November 19, 2024 (New York, NY) – The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) celebrated the achievements of eight trailblazing leaders at the Gracies Leadership Awards, on Tuesday, November 19 at Tribeca 360° in New York City. The event honored these extraordinary women for their significant contributions to the media industry, showcasing their leadership, vision and dedication to excellence across broadcasting, journalism, digital media and beyond.

In addition to the awards, the luncheon featured a special fireside chat with Andrea Mitchell, recipient of the Gracies Icon Award. As NBC News’ Chief Washington Correspondent and Chief Foreign Affairs Correspondent and Host of MSNBC’s Andrea Mitchell Reports, Mitchell shared her incredible journey in journalism, offering powerful insights into her decades-long career. Her conversation with Libby Leist, Executive Vice President of TODAY and Lifestyle highlighted the importance of elevating women’s voices in the media, mentorship and the lasting impact of bold, investigative storytelling made possible by diligent homework, checking your facts and doing research.

Highlights from the honoree acceptances included:

• Sylvia Strobel, AWM Legacy Leadership Award recipient and President & CEO, Twin Cities PBS, began her remarks by saying, “This recognition is not just a personal honor, it represents a collective effort of countless women who’ve paved the way for us in this industry, many of whom are in this room.”
  
• Holly Tang, CFO, NBCUniversal Entertainment, expressed her gratitude for the award and explained why it meant so much to her by noting, “I am a product of a women supporting women philosophy… throughout my career, influential women have gone above and beyond in supporting me, this is why I believe the Alliance for Women in Media’s mission is so important for all of us.”

• Jennifer Leimgruber, EVP Entertainment Programming, Premiere/iHeartMedia, noted, “If we all continue to use our positions to mentor and champion younger women within our organization the representation of women in the future will be changed forever.”
  
• Deborah Parenti, President & Publisher, Streamline Media (Radio Ink, RBR + TVBR) concluded her acceptance by emphasizing, “To everyone in this room, young and old, remember to find your passion and pursue it…as long as I have a voice, I’m going to use it. Use your voice and encourage others to do the same.”
  
• Jen Sargent, CEO, Wondery,  proudly expressed, “I’m humbled to be among this year’s Gracie Leadership Awards honorees, especially given the amazing work of the Alliance for Women in Media…a powerful force for change, ensuring that women’s voices are heard, valued and celebrated across every platform… it’s an honor to be a part of that mission today.”
  
• Sylvia Bugg, Chief Programming Executive & GM, PBS, began her acceptance noting it was an honor to be recognized among another Sylvia, “media trailblazer, Sylvia Strobel.”  She continued, “my parents would tell my sister and I growing up, would tell us, ‘you’re judged by the company you keep’ and that holds true here today… there’s beautiful company in this space.”
  
• In accepting her honor by video, Sonia Coleman, ESVP & Chief Human Resources Officer, The Walt Disney Company, stated it is an immense honor to receive the Gracies Leadership Award and thanked AWM Board members Debra OConnell and Katina Arnold, who have recognized, supported and mentored women around the world.

Becky Brooks, President of AWM, emphasized the importance of fostering the next generation of women in media: “Today, we celebrate women who are making a powerful impact in executive suites and boardrooms. While we know there is still much work to be done, those of you in this room are paving the way for the next generation of women in media.”

AWM Board Chair and VP of Corporate Communications at ESPN, Katina Arnold, spoke about the significance of the largest fundraiser of the year for the AWM Foundation, the Gracie Awards, stating, “As we approach the milestone 50th anniversary of the Gracie Awards in 2025, we are reminded of the importance of honoring and uplifting women in media. The Gracies continue to celebrate outstanding achievements by, for, and about women, recognizing talent across all areas of media.”

As part of the event, the AWM Foundation is hosting an auction to continue bringing students and connect the next generation of women in media. Bidding is open now.

The Gracies Leadership Awards would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor, The Walt Disney Company, alongside ABC News, Audacy, Clear Channel Outdoor, Hallmark Media, Katz Media Group, KPMG, NBCUniversal, NBCUniversal News Group, NCTA-The Internet & Television Association, Premiere Networks, Twin Cities PBS, and Wondery.

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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. More information is available at https://allwomeninmedia.org.

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Jenny Ditto
Awards & Public Relations Manager
jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org
Ph: 513.407.3637

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

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 50^th 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

Allison Williams’ Experience at the 2023 Gracies Leadership Award

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Helena Arjona’s Experience at the 2023 Gracies Leadership Award

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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 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