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.

# # #

Media Contact:
Jenny Ditto
Awards & Public Relations Manager
Email: jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org
Phone: 859-514-3008

CAROL BURNETT HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD AT 49TH ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS

Tamera Mowry-Housley Hosted the Evening Celebrating Women in Media

Winners & Presenters Included Jane Fonda, Kristen Wiig, Maria Shriver, Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach, Phylicia Rashad, Natalie Morales, Sheryl Underwood, Yvette Nicole Brown, Mayan Lopez, and Many More!

Rachel Platten’s Performance Captivated Audiences

Los Angeles, CA. (May 21, 2024) – The 49th Annual Gracie Awards, hosted by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF), illuminated the evening with a captivating celebration of women in media at the esteemed Beverly Wilshire Hotel. The event, hosted by Tamera Mowry-Housley, commemorated the remarkable achievements of women across various media platforms, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to storytelling and cultural transformation.

This year’s theme was centered on “Feminine Strength, both Large and Small,” highlighting impactful actions resonating on various scales. Among the distinguished honorees was Carol Burnett, a trailblazing figure known for her groundbreaking roles and whose impact spans decades and resonates with audiences of all ages. Burnett was bestowed with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by castmate of Palm Royale, Kristen Wiig.

The Gracie Awards Gala embodies AWMF’s commitment to supporting women in media through charitable endeavors, educational programs, and scholarship initiatives. By investing in these initiatives, AWMF continues to empower women and cultivate leadership opportunities across the industry. The winners of this year’s Gracie Awards embody the spirit and courage exemplified by Gracie Allen, and they serve as a reminder of the invaluable contributions women make in shaping our media landscape.

Winners and presenters included influential figures such as Jane Fonda, Natalie Morales, Sheryl Underwood, Yvette Nicole Brown, Mayan Lopez, Melissa Peterman, Emma Kenney, Danielle Pinnock, Amanda Kloots, Lauren E. Banks, Sharon Carpenter, Allison Holker, Christina Elmore, Kim Fields, Betsy Brandt, Sutton Stracke, Crystal Kung Minkoff, and Amy Chozick. Attendees include Maria Shriver, Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach, Phylicia Rashad, Garcelle Beauvais, Mary McDonnell, Mariana van Zeller, and more. The audience was captivated by a special musical performance of “Girls” by Rachel Platten. Raegan Revord lent her support as the Gracie Awards’ Digital Impact Ambassador, while Vicangelo Bulluck executed the evening as executive producer.

NOTABLE MOMENTS

• Tamera Mowry-Housley started the show by saying, “We are living in historic times and our voices are needed to stand up for our rights. Infusing our collective feminine strength into media, we can change attitudes, empower audiences, and create productions that speak to us, for us.”
• While presenting to Carol Burnett, Kristen Wiig humorously expressed her admiration, stating, “Personally, it is surreal for me to be here, to even know you… because you have been such an inspiration.” Reflecting on her childhood watching the Carol Burnett Show, Wiig credited Burnett with planting the creative seeds that grew her love for sketch comedy. She affectionately joked, “So Carol, in many ways it’s like you’re my oldest friend, but also you ARE my oldest friend.” Wiig continued, “It’s been an absolute honor and joy to work alongside you, Carol, in Palm Royale. And I mean this, no one plays coma patient like you.”
• During her acceptance speech for the Lifetime Achievement Award, Carol Burnett playfully remarked, “I was unfortunately (believe it or not!) too young to have met the legendary Gracie Allen, who is the inspiration for these awards, but I think we might have had a lot in common and her iconic work as an artist paved the way for all the women who came after her, including me.”.
• Jane Fonda, before introducing Maria Shriver (Conversations Above the Noise with Maria, Best Online Video Host), articulated, “I made my first movie in 1949, and there were no women on the set. We, women, experience things differently–war, peace, famine. If you don’t have our voices in the arts, you’re not getting the whole story. It doesn’t just hurt us; it hurts men because they only get half the side.”
• Maria Shriver reflected on her journey in media, from intern to media entrepreneur, emphasizing the significance of women’s voices in today’s media landscape. She underscored the responsibility each individual holds in using their platform wisely, stating, “Today everyone seems to have a platform but not everyone is responsible with it.” Shriver expressed gratitude for the Gracie Award, highlighting the importance of producing meaningful content that makes a difference in shaping public discourse and acknowledging the women who paved the way for her.
• Abby Wambach joined Glennon Doyle on stage where Doyle’s acceptance speech (Best Lifestyle Podcast Co-host/Ensemble, “We Can Do Hard Things”) highlighted the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare. Sharing her sister’s story of early cancer detection through persistent advocacy, “Because of our conditioning it’s hard to advocate on behalf of ourselves but I assure you that my sister’s self-advocacy is the greatest act of love and service she’s ever done for the world. When she saved herself, she saved the life of her children’s mother, her husband’s wife, our parent’s daughter – our sister. She saved so many of us when she saved herself.”
• Garcelle Beauvais expressed deep gratitude for the recognition of her film, “Black Girls Missing” (Made for Television Movie). Beauvais emphasized the film’s mission to shed light on the critical issue of missing black and brown individuals, striving to ensure their visibility and voices are heard, “Shedding light when black and brown people go missing has been our mission with this movie. We want to be seen and heard!”
• Lauren Book, Florida Senate Minority Leader and survivor of child sexual abuse, shared her mission to prevent abuse through the Lauren’s Kids Foundation, stating, “Today, standing on this stage, knowing we are educating millions of kids every single year… Teaching personal safety from a place of fun and not fear.” Expressing gratitude to the Gracie Awards for recognizing their work, Book emphasized the importance of collective action in creating a safer future for children, urging support for their cause at LaurensKids.org.

Below, please find links to access house footage, which includes b-roll of arrivals; interviews with honorees and presenters; clips from the ceremony; and more.

Video Credit – Getty Images Video: https://gettyvideo.digitalpigeon.com/msg/lVqsUBfiEe-CgQKVS2kCPQ/1XXwSc1JDlrJVhJ_NK5Nrg

Photo Credit – Getty on behalf of The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation: https://dam.gettyimages.com/assignments/49th-annual-gracie-awards

Gracies Gift Bags feature a personalized selection including a custom Gracies Bag by Henry Dry Goods, and curated items from Nodpod, St. Martin’s Publishing Group Providing “The Women” by Kristin Hannah, Hallmark Media, AquaVault, Cozy Earth, Dr. Brandt, Fount Society Balancing, FreshCut Paper, No7, Peepers, Shinery, Sunday Citizen, VoChill, and much more, provided by esteemed partners.

For an opportunity to continue giving to the AWM Foundation, bid on the Gracies Gift & Gala Giveaway and donate.

For a complete list of award recipients and honorable mentions, please visit https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies. Local and student award recipients will be honored at the Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 18 at Cipriani’s in NYC.

# # #

About The Gracie Awards

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

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

TAMERA MOWRY-HOUSLEY TO HOST THE ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION’S 49TH ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS ON MAY 21

Kristen Wiig to Present the Lifetime Achievement Award to Carol Burnett

Presenters and Attendees Include Maria Shriver, Glennon Doyle & Abby Wambach, Candace Parker, Natalie Morales, Sheryl Underwood, Yvette Nicole Brown, Mayan Lopez, Emma Kenney, Danielle Pinnock, Mariana van Zeller, Nikki & Brie Garcia, and More

May 13, 2024 – Today, the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation proudly announces that Emmy award-winning host, author, actress, producer, and entrepreneur Tamera Mowry-Housley will host the 49th Annual Gracie Awards, set to take place on May 21 at the iconic Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel in LA. The Gracies honor exceptional achievements in media dedicated to women, by women, and about women across diverse platforms in news and entertainment.

Kristen Wiig is set to grace the stage to present her Palm Royale co-star, Carol Burnett, with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. Additional presenters include Candace Parker, Natalie Morales, Sheryl Underwood, Yvette Nicole Brown, Mayan Lopez, Emma Kenney, Danielle Pinnock, Amanda Kloots, Lauren E. Banks, Nikki and Brie Garcia, Sharon Carpenter, Allison Holker, Christina Elmore, Kim Fields,Betsy Brandt, Sutton Stracke, Crystal Kung Minkoff, and Amy Chozick. Attendees include Maria Shriver, Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach, Phylicia Rashad, Garcelle Beauvais, Mary McDonnell, Mariana van Zeller, and more. Adding to the evening’s allure, Rachel Platten is slated to deliver a captivating performance, and Raegan Revord will serve as AWMF’s Digital Impact Ambassador.

“This year’s event promises to be truly memorable with Tamera Mowry-Housley at the helm,” said Becky Brooks, president of AWMF.“As a beacon of empowerment and success, Tamera has inspired countless young women, breaking barriers and uplifting others, thus setting a remarkable example for women in the industry and beyond.”

This year’s content themes are centered on “Feminine Strength, both Large and Small,” highlighting impactful actions resonating on various scales, as exemplified in acclaimed productions like Yellowjackets, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and We Can Do Hard Things. Among the distinguished winners are influential figures such as Michelle Obama, Gayle King, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Nicole Kidman, Angela Yee, and Rachel Brosnahan. Inside the gala, powerful stories of triumph, civil rights activism, and cultural shifters are celebrated, embodying the spirit and courage of Gracie Allen, the namesake of these prestigious awards.

Tamera Mowry-Housley started her career in Hollywood alongside her sister, Tia, on the hit show Sister, Sister, which aired over 100 episodes from 1994-1999 and has gone on to see a cultural revival over the past few years since it was released on Netflix. Tamera’s work on the show gained praise and recognition; she received an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series and Kid’s Choice Award for Favorite Television Actress. She returned to the screen with her sister, Tia, on the hit Style Network reality TV series Tia and Tamera, chronicling her life as she balanced her acting career and major life transformations of marriage and motherhood.

Tamera co-hosted the Emmy-winning talk show The Real for six seasons alongside Loni Love, Adrienne Bailon-Houghton, and Jeannie Mai Jenkins, winning the Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show Host Emmy at the 45th Daytime Emmy Awards in April 2018.

Known for her versatile talents, Tamera has had a prolific career spanning television movies, series, and voice acting. Notably, she starred in and executive produced Hallmark Channel’s hit movie The Santa Stakeout and has appeared in various beloved Christmas films. Her recent projects include Girlfriendship and Haunted Harmony Mysteries: Murder in G Major. With a new holiday film for the Hallmark Channel set for release in fall/winter 2024, Tamera continues to captivate audiences with her charisma and talent.

For a complete list of award recipients and honorable mentions, please visit allwomeninmedia.org.

Gracies Gift Bags feature a personalized selection including a custom Gracies Bag by Henry Dry Goods, and curated items from Nodpod, St. Martin’s Publishing Group Providing “The Women” by Kristin Hannah, Hallmark Media, AquaVault, Cozy Earth, Dr. Brandt, Fount Society Balancing, FreshCut Paper, No7, Peepers, Shinery, Sunday Citizen, VoChill, and much more, provided by esteemed partners.

About The Gracie Awards

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

# # #

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

LEGENDARY ICON CAROL BURNETT TO RECEIVE THE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD AT 49TH ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS GALA ON MAY 21

Emmy Award-Winning Multi-platinum Artist,
Rachel Platten Set to Perform

LOS ANGELES, CA (April 16, 2024) – Today, the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) is thrilled to announce that Carol Burnett, a legendary figure in entertainment, will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 49th Annual Gracie Awards Gala on May 21 at the Beverly Wilshire, a Four Seasons Hotel, in Beverly Hills. The Gracie Awards’ Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes a woman whose work in media honors the legacy of Gracie Allen, a pioneering force in the industry and the award’s namesake. Additionally, Emmy Award-winning artist, Rachel Platten, will be performing at the gala, adding to the evening’s celebration. A full list of this year’s winners can be found here.

“Carol Burnett is a true icon of television and entertainment, whose impact spans decades and resonates with audiences of all ages. Her groundbreaking work on ‘The Carol Burnett Show’ set a standard for excellence in comedy and storytelling, earning her countless awards and accolades,” said Becky Brooks, president of the AWMF. “We are truly privileged to recognize her outstanding contributions to the industry and celebrate her remarkable career at the Gracie Awards Gala, where the talented Rachel Platten will also be inspiring us with a special performance with her unforgettable female anthems.”

Burnett, an award-winning actress and bestselling author, is widely recognized by the public and her peers for her work for her comedic and dramatic roles on television, film, and Broadway, most notably “The Carol Burnett Show.” Named in 2007 by TIME as one of 100 Best Television Shows of All Time, “The Carol Burnett Show” ran for 11 years, averaged 30 million viewers per week, and received 25 Emmy Awards, making it one of the most honored shows in television history. It was recently announced that NBC’s “Carol Burnett: 90 Years of Laughter + Love” will receive a Gracie Award for Special or Variety (TV, national).

As a highly acclaimed actress, she has been honored with Emmys, Golden Globes, People’s Choice Awards, the Horatio Alger Award, an ACE Award, the Peabody, and a Grammy.  A Kennedy Center Honoree, the recipient of the Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize for Humor and the Presidential Medal of Freedom; was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame, and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The City of Los Angeles named the intersection of Highland Avenue and Selma directly adjacent to Hollywood High School, Burnett’s alma mater, Carol Burnett Square and CBS Studios dedicated “The Carol Burnett Artist Entrance” in her honor. Burnett was celebrated by her colleagues and fellow actors with the Life Achievement honors at the 2016 SAG Awards. In 2019, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association created The Carol Burnett Award which is an honorary Golden Globe to celebrate outstanding contributions to television on or off the screen. Burnett was the first recipient in its inauguration, followed by Ellen DeGeneres this year.

Currently, Carol is in a new series for Apple TV that premiered this past March 20th entitled, “Palm Royal.” The setting for the comedy is 1969 Palm Beach, Florida and its high society life of inclusion vs. exclusion. Carol plays the matriarch in that world. Cast includes Kristin Wiig, Allyson Janney, Laura Dern, Ricky Martin, Josh Lucas.

Platten catapulted to fame with her anthem “Fight Song,” a global sensation that has left an indelible mark on modern culture with over billions of streams. Beyond her chart-topping success, Rachel’s journey as a mother of two and a multifaceted artist continues to evolve, as she tours the world and prepares to release a new album in Fall 2024. Her first track, “Girls,” from her forthcoming album is already topping the charts.  With her upcoming release, Rachel aims to deepen her connection with audiences by exploring themes of honesty in her personal struggles, and the art of healing thru  her heartfelt songwriting.

The Gracie Awards Gala is fundamentally rooted in supporting AWMF’s charitable endeavors. As a non-profit organization, AWMF is committed to developing educational programs, charitable activities, and scholarship initiatives that directly benefit women in the media. Through these investments, AWMF remains steadfast in its mission to cultivate growth, empowerment, and leadership opportunities for women throughout the industry.

Henry Dry Goods confirmed to create custom Gracies Gift Bag with included gifts. More details to follow.

About The Gracie Awards

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

# # #

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

Rachel Platten:
Bobbie Gale
2bentertainment
bobbie@2bentertainment.net

Alliance for Women in Media Announces AWM Breakfast at the NAB Show Speaker Panel

What: Join the Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) for an insightful panel discussion on “The Business of Multiplatform Sports” at the AWM Breakfast during the NAB Show. Esteemed presenters Jeanne-Marie Condo (President of Network Partnerships and Chief Revenue Officer, Skyview Networks), Pat LaPlatney (Co-CEO/President, Gray Television), Mary Menna (Vice President & Market Manager, Beasley Media Group), and Carlson Mozdiez (Vice President, Digital Business Operations, Audacy), alongside moderator Sarah Foss (Chief Technology Officer, Audacy), will engage in a candid conversation exploring the evolving landscape of sports business and the significant role women play in shaping its future. The panel will dive deep into the emergence of multiplatform sports coverage and how it has reshaped the business landscape of the sports industry, and how media professionals have leveraged multiplatform sports to enhance audience engagement and reach a diverse set of viewers and more.

Where: West Hall, Las Vegas Convention Center, rooms W102-104

When: Date: April 15 – Time: 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM PT

Details: The AWM Breakfast at the NAB Show is a premier event that brings together industry professionals from television, radio, technology, and service partners. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy a continental breakfast, network with top executives, and gain valuable insights from the panel discussion featuring influential leaders in the media industry.

Registration: Purchase tickets by April 10, by going tohttps://allwomeninmedia.org/events/awm-breakfast-nab/  AWM Members will want to login before registering to receive the discounted rate. *Attendees do not have to purchase a ticket to the NAB Show to attend the AWM Breakfast.

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.

For media inquiries, please contact: Becky Brooks, President, AWMF, becky.brooks@allwomeninmedia.org

The Alliance for Women in Media and its Foundation Announce the 2024 Board of Directors & Officers

February 15, 2024: The Alliance for Women in Media and its Foundation (AWM/F) are pleased to announce the 2024 National Board of Directors and Officers. “The leadership of our Board of Directors has allowed AWM and our Foundation to advance women in media for more than seventy years of triumphs and trials,” said Becky Brooks, President, AWM/F. “The past year has underscored the need for steadfast leadership in the face of unforeseen challenges. The mix of diverse and insightful voices on this year’s Boards will continue the important work of prioritizing recognition, connection and education of women across all facets of media.”

OFFICER ROLES

• Katina Arnold, Chair, Vice President, Corporate Communications, ESPN
• Monica Bloom, Incoming/Vice Chair, Chief Marketing Officer, MHz Choice | Topic Streaming
• Annie Howell, Immediate Past Chair, Chief Communications Officer, Hallmark Media
• Catherine Badalamente, Treasurer, President & CEO, Graham Media Group
• Marie Tedesco, Treasurer-Elect, Chief Financial Officer, Beasley Broadcast Group, Inc.

NEW DIRECTORS SERVING ON THE BOARD 

The following leaders will begin serving on the AWM Board of Directors for a two-year term:

• Isabel Lara, Chief Communications Officer, NPR
• Jaclyn Levin, President, Shriver Media; Founder, Liminal Space Media
• Christine Moran, Head of Creator Partnerships, Electrify Video Partners
• Debra OConnell, President, News Group and Networks, Disney Entertainment

SECOND-TERM DIRECTORS SERVING ON THE BOARD

The following leaders will serve a second term on the AWM Board of Directors:

• Thea Mitchem, Executive Vice President of Programming, iHeartMedia

INCUMBENT DIRECTORS REMAINING ON THE BOARD

The following leaders will continue serving on the AWM Board of Directors:

• Cori Abraham, SVP, Entertainment Unscripted Development, Crime and Documentary Development, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming
• Kenetta Bailey, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Clear Channel Outdoor
• Jayne Bussman-Wise, VP, Team Business Operations, Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL)
• Marsha Cooke, Vice President & Executive Producer, ESPN Films and 30 for 30
• Chesley Maddox-Dorsey, CEO, American Urban Radio Network

AMM FOUNDATION BOARD

The following leaders will continue serving on the AWM Foundation Board of Directors:

• Tim Clarke, Senior Vice President, Digital Audio Content, Audacy
• Heather Cohen, President, The Weiss Agency
• Vicki Lins, President and CEO, CTAM
• Mike McVay, President, McVay Media
• Christine Travaglini, President, Katz Radio Group

Board photos and bios can be found on the AWM website. Visit here for the AWM board of directors and here for the AWM Foundation board of directors.

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.

###

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.

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.

Media Contact:

Jenny Ditto
Awards and Public Relations Manager
jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org
1.859.514.3008

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

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

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

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

The Gracie Awards Gala will be May 21 at the iconic Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire hotel and the Gracie Awards Luncheon will be held on June 18 at Cipriani 42^nd Street, New York.

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

# # #

About The Gracie Awards

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

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

AWM 2023 Year in Review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cheers to a fabulous 24!

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

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

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

How You Can Support:

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

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

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

###

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

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

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

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

Photos from the event can be found here.

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

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

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

Highlights from the speeches include:

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

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

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

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

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

###

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.

###

Media Contact:
Jenny Ditto 
859.514.3008
jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org