Lisa Setyon’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

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

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

Attending the Gracies Leadership Awards reinforced that state of mind.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Phoebe Chen’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

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

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

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

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

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

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

Aria Young’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

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

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

Caitlyn Moran’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

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

Laila Wilson’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

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

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

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

Rachel Katz’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

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

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

Jordan Ruttert’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

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

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

Haajrah Gilani’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Award

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

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

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

It’s so easy to feel small.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Megan Hatlee’s Experience at the 2022 Gracies Leadership Awards

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

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

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

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

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

Photos and video from the event can be found here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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.

CONTACT:

Jenny Ditto

Awards & Public Relations Manager

jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org

Ph: 513.407.3637