Alliance for Women in Media Foundation Extends Deadline for the 2023 Gracie Award Entries

January 17, 2023 (New York City/Los Angeles) – The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) is pleased to announce that the deadline to submit entries for the 48^th Annual Gracie Awards has been extended through January 26, 2023 (11:59 pm ET). The regular deadline, with no additional fee, is January 19, 2023 (11:59 pm ET). The Gracie Awards, presented by AWMF, celebrate programming and individual achievement by, for and about women in television, radio/audio and digital media.  Submissions from all facets of media are encouraged. A full list of the categories can be found here.

“As our largest fundraiser of the year, the Gracie Awards empower the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation to deliver on its promise of advancing all women in media by strengthening their connection, education and recognition in our industry,” says Becky Brooks, AWMF president.

The Gracie Awards Gala will be May 23 at the renowned Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire hotel and the Gracie Awards Luncheon will be held on June 20 at the Cipriani 42^nd Street, New York. AWMF is grateful to its donors and sponsors committed to furthering the mission of the organization including Hallmark Media and NCTA – The Internet and Television Association.  

The Gracie Awards are also honored to have the leadership of Ms. Heather Cohen, Executive Vice 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 2023 Gracie Awards entry eligibility air dates are from January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022. Entry details, including pricing and updated categories, can be viewed at https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/call-for-entries/.

About the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation: In 1960, the Alliance for Women in Media became the first professional broadcasting organization to establish an educational foundation. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (formerly known as The Foundation of American Women in Radio & Television) supports and promotes educational programs, charitable activities, public service campaigns and scholarships to benefit the public, the electronic media and allied fields. The Foundation also produces nationally acclaimed recognition programs, including the Gracie Awards®, a gala that honors exemplary programming created by, for or about women. 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, LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook. For more information about the Gracie Awards and to submit your entries, please visit www.allwomeninmedia.org/gracies.  

CONTACT:

Jenny Ditto

Awards and Public Relations Manager

jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org

Ph: 859.514.3008

2022 – An AWM Year in Review

It is refreshing to write a Year in Review where we’ve had the opportunity to get together in-person for nearly every AWM-hosted event in 2022 for the first time in three years. Who would have ever dreamed it would take this long to consistently connect again? In March of 2020, many of us thought we needed to stay at home for a few weeks – three years later, we’re back-ish. 

While we still must take precautions and there’s a hint of uncertainty, there is also a willingness to gather at the risk of staying isolated any longer. 2022 was unpredictable and created inherent hesitancies after a two-year separation.

This was a year where COVID vaccines became widely available, where we learned more about “supply chain” than ever thought possible, where we paid attention to gasoline prices and felt the pain of grocery bills. All the while, there were enjoyable and even epic moments like seeing the world come together for the World Cup, unite behind causes like women’s rights in countries where they are suppressed and find reasons for hopefulness such as recent protections secured for equality in marriage. 

As we say every year, through it all, media was there, on the frontlines, to tell the stories. You were there when others couldn’t be so our communities could see and hear first-hand accounts of life in their backyards and around the world. 

Brave journalists were the feature of this acknowledgement at the Gracie Awards Gala this year, which focused on war correspondents — throughout history and this year on the frontlines in Ukraine and elsewhere. 

At the end of every year, I reflect on the bravery of the women signing AWM into existence more than 70 years ago and then creating an awards program 50 years ago to celebrate the programming and individual talent created by, for and about women. This year, we continued that tradition through gatherings at the NAB Show, our Gracie Awards, the first Gracies Leadership Awards in three years and the second AWM Connects where those newer to the industry are connected to executives. 

As we move forward, our leadership is focused squarely on a phrase that encapsulates who we are – advancing women in media. This will continue through our existing programs and scholarships as well as additional opportunities added following the recent Strategic Planning session. This is only possible through the engagement of our media community. You can make this possible through a donation (Venmo @AWM-Foundation), join AWM and enter outstanding content and programming for the Gracie Awards. 

On a personal level, it was so good to be back “in-person” across the board. I thrive being around people and get energy from events and experiences. Our kids started high school and middle school in an actual building, which was so refreshing (of course, with its own set of “special” at those ages.) And as so many who read this note can appreciate, balancing work-life with family and work is fulfilling and exhausting. I’m a better mom and steward to AWM with organized chaos. 

I’m finishing 2022 cautiously hopeful for next year. We know things can change on a dime and value the connections and work of our industry and know there is more we can do together. 

As we say at the close of our events

Good night Gracie!

Becky Brooks

(Proudly) President, AWM & Foundation

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

Call for Entries Open for 48th Annual Gracie Awards

October 13 (New York City/Los Angeles) – The Gracie Awards, presented by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF), is proud to open the call for entries for the 48^th Annual Gracie Awards.

“The Gracie Awards celebrate and honor truly exceptional content by, for and about women. We are more committed than ever to honor the remarkable work by so many in our creative community”, says Becky Brooks AWMF president. “As our most important fundraiser of the year, the Gracies enables the Foundation to deliver on its promise to further the connection, education and recognition of women in media,.”

For nearly 50 years, the Gracies has honored individual talent and exemplary programming created by women, for women and about women in television, radio and digital media in news and entertainment. 

Serving again as co-chairs for the 2023 Gracie Awards are Heather Cohen, executive vice president, The Weiss Agency, Annie Howell, chief communications officer Hallmark Media and Mike McVay, president, McVay Media Consulting. Vicangelo Bulluck, an Emmy Award-winning, seasoned veteran in awards production, has produced the Gracie Awards since 2016 and will return to produce the Gracie Awards in 2023.

Entry eligibility air dates are from January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2022. Early Bird rates for entries end on December 15, 2022, at 11:59 PM Eastern. The deadline for all entries is January 12, 2023, at 11:59 PM Eastern. Entry details including pricing, updated categories can be viewed at https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/call-for-entries/. 

Alliance for Women in Media to Honor Seven Female Leaders at Gracies Leadership Awards

October 4, 2022 (New York) – The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) is pleased to announce the seven honorees for the Gracies Leadership Awards on Monday, November 14, 2022, at Tribeca 360 in New York, New York. Google News Initiative is a presenting sponsor of the awards.

The annual event provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the significant impact women have made in the media industry, while also spurring to action and emboldening female leaders in attendance. 

The list of this year’s honorees include the following:

• Nancy Daniels, Chief of Content, TNets, Discovery, Animal Planet, & Science Channel
• Marie Donoghue, Vice President, Global Sports Video, Amazon
• Kim Godwin, President, ABC News
• Wendy Goldberg, Chief Communications Officer, iHeartMedia, Inc.
• Chesley Maddox-Dorsey, Chief Executive Officer, American Urban Radio Networks
• Debra OConnell, President, Networks, Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution
• Dawn Porter, Founder, Trilogy Films

AWM previously announced Soledad O’Brien award-winning journalist, CEO of Soledad O’Brien Productions, philanthropist, and author, as the keynote presenter. The organization also announced investing in the next generation of women in media through partnerships with Google News Initiative and Mattel creating two unique fellowship programs for students pursuing a career in either journalism or media.

“It is an exceptional honor to recognize and celebrate this strong lineup and powerhouse of women leaders in our industry,” said Becky Brooks, President, Alliance for Women in Media. “Soledad O’Brien as our keynote speaker will undoubtedly create an unforgettable event for everyone in attendance,” added Brooks.

Special thanks to sponsors of the Gracies Leadership Awards including Google News Initiative as a presenting sponsor, ABC News, American Urban Radio Network, Clear Channel Outdoor, Disney Media & Entertainment, Hallmark Media, Katz Media Group, Mattel, and NCTA – The Internet & Television Association. For sponsorship or advertising information about the Gracies Leadership Awards, or any other AWM/F opportunity, please contact Becky Brooks.

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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.

Media Contact:
Becky Brooks
Becky.Brooks@allwomeninmedia.org
859.226.4240

Soledad O’Brien to Keynote Gracies Leadership Awards, presented by Alliance for Women in Media

Valerie K. Blackburn to receive AWM Legacy Leadership Award at event

September 19, 2022 (New York) – The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) is pleased to announce that Soledad O’Brien – award-winning journalist, CEO of Soledad O’Brien Productions, philanthropist, and author – will keynote the Gracies Leadership Awards on Monday, November 14, 2022, at Tribeca 360 in New York, New York. At the awards event, AWM will present its Legacy Leadership Award to Valerie K. Blackburn, a longtime radio executive, industry leader as well as active and committed supporter of AWM. Google News Initiative is a presenting sponsor for this key education and recognition celebration.

The annual event provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the significant impact women have made in the media industry, while also spurring to action and emboldening female leaders in attendance.  The list of this year’s honorees will be announced soon.

“The Alliance for Women in Media’s commitment to shining a light on the impressive work of women in our industry and how they cover them in support and celebrate their talent makes me all the more honored and delighted to serve as keynote,” said O’Brien.

O’Brien has been a mainstay in the world of media for several decades. She currently anchors and produces Hearst TV political program “Matter of Fact with Soledad O’Brien” and is a correspondent for HBO Real Sports.  O’Brien’s history in the industry includes the anchor chair on CNN, MSNBC, and NBC, as well as reporting for Fox, A&E, Oxygen, Nat Geo, the PBS Newshour, and many others.

“The Alliance for Women in Media is proud to recognize women for their exceptional achievements,” said Becky Brooks, president, AWM. “It is our honor to have Soledad O’Brien as keynote and Valerie Blackburn as the AWM Legacy Leadership recipient, both undoubtedly trailblazers in the world of media leaving a legacy for all women in media to follow.”

Blackburn said, “This is an exceptional honor, and I am incredibly appreciative to be recognized among this alliance of women I admire and respect, who continue to educate and connect those of us in media.”

Tickets are available today including a special student rate for undergraduate students with proof of enrollment. Students may also apply for a sponsored tickets made available through the Google News Initiative and Mattel Fellowships. For more information on the Fellowships and to reserve your seat, visit https://allwomeninmedia.org/events/gracies-leadership-award/.

Special thanks to sponsors of the Gracies Leadership Awards including Google News Initiative as a presenting sponsor, ABC News, Clear Channel Outdoor, Katz Media Group, Mattel and NCTA – The Internet & Television Association. For sponsorship or advertising information about the Gracies Leadership Awards, or any other AWM/F opportunity, please contact Becky Brooks.

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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.

Media Contact:
Becky Brooks
Becky.Brooks@allwomeninmedia.org
859.226.4240

THE ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETES 47th ANNUAL GRACIES LUNCHEON

ESPN SportsCenter Anchor Hannah Storm Hosted and Curb Recording Artist Hannah Ellis Performed at Cipriani 42^nd Street in New York City

PHOTOS AND CLIPS: CLICK HERE *Credit: Getty Images for AWM (Alliance for Women in Media Foundation)

June 22, 2022 (New York City) – The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) presented the 47^th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon at Cipriani 42^nd Street in New York City on June 22. Host Hannah Storm, anchor of ESPN SportsCenter, led the program alongside presenters Paul “Cubby” Bryant, Co-Host 106.7 LiteFM Morning Show with Christine Nagy; Linsey Davis, ABC News Live Prime Anchor, Weekend “World News Tonight” Anchor, and ABC News Correspondent; Larry O’Connor, Host, O’Connor & Company on WMAL; Kate Snow, NBC Nightly News Sunday, AnchorandNBC News Senior National Correspondent; and Shelley Wade, Afternoon Host, New York City’s 94.7 The Block and podcast host All the Rage with Shelley Wade. The Gracie Awards were presented to honorees which were previously announced (full list of honorees here) in recognition of individual achievement and outstanding programming by, for and about women in local and student television, radio and digital media.

Highlights from the show included:

• AWMF Board Chair and executive vice president of The Weiss Agency Heather Cohen opened the Luncheon by acknowledging local radio, television, and student awards is the heart of the Gracies and how happy we are to be together again.
• Hannah Storm, anchor of ESPN SportsCenter and six-time Gracie winner, hosted the awards. When presenting the awards for outstanding work in Local Market Radio, Storm said, “As we all know, the connection to our local communities happens through local television and radio. Breaking news, keeping us informed, uplifting moments, and understanding how we are all interconnected happens with those of you in this room.”
• Curb Recording artist and singer/songwriter Hannah Ellis performed “Us” along with her soon-to-be-released single “Country Can.”  Ellis said, “It’s such honor to perform at the Gracie Awards this year. There is something so special about being here and celebrating accomplished and talented women!’
• Presenter Kate Snow, NBC Nightly News Sunday, AnchorandNBC News Senior National Correspondent and 2022 Gracies Award recipient for Outstanding News Feature Series, discussed the importance of fact-checking, vetting and research, noting that right now is a significant moment for journalism.
• Presenter Larry O’Connor, Host, O’Connor & Company on WMAL said, “I have always, and will always, work on a team led by women.”
• Presenter Linsey Davis, ABC News Live Prime Anchor, Weekend “World News Tonight” Anchor, and ABC News Correspondent spoke on the benefits of being a mentor and finding a mentor. “Over the process of me being a mentor, she has helped me.” She said before presenting an award to one of her own mentees.
• Presenter Paul “Cubby” Bryant, Co-Host 106.7 LiteFM Morning Show with Christine Nagy, said, “I am very excited to present today especially to my morning show partner. Everyone who listens knows the Gracie-worthy content comes from her!”
• Presenter Shelley Wade, Afternoon Host, New York City’s 94.7 The Block and podcast host All the Rage with Shelley Wade, said “I’m honored to be here and am a firm believer in women supporting other women. Thank you all for having me involved.  

The National Gracie Award honorees were recognized at the Gracies Gala, May 24, at The Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills. Again, a full list of recipients may be found on the Alliance for Women in Media website.

Photos and clips from the 47^th Annual Gracies Luncheon may be viewed at the following link: https://dam.gettyimages.com/event/gracie-awards-luncheon

About the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation and The Gracie Awards – The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (formerly known as The Foundation of American Women in Radio & Television) supports and promotes educational programs, and scholarships to benefit the media, the public, and allied fields. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has created partnerships and joint initiatives with many organizations that are philosophically aligned with the mission of the Foundation. In addition to giving $20,000 a year in scholarships to deserving female students, the Foundation also produces nationally acclaimed recognition programs, including the Gracie Awards that exemplary honor programming created by, for and about women.

For more information about The Alliance for Women in Media, please visit: allwomeninmedia.org and follow on Twitter, Instagram (@AllWomeninMedia) (#TheGracies), and Facebook.

Sponsors of The Gracies Luncheon include Audacy, Beasley Media Group, Cox Media Group, ESPN, Graham Media Group, Gray Media, iHeartMedia, Katz Media Group, NBCUniversal News Group, NCTA – The Internet & Television Association, Hofstra University, Point-To-Point, TEGNA, Townsquare Media, WABC, and WideOrbit.

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Media Contact: Becky Brooks 859.226.4240 and becky.brooks@allwomeninmedia.org

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES ESPN’s HANNAH STORM AS HOST FOR 47TH ANNUAL GRACIES LUNCHEON

Musical Talent, Curb Recording Artist, Hannah Ellis to Perform
on June 22 at Cipriani 42^nd Street

June 16, 2022 (New York, N.Y.) – The leadership of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) announces that Hannah Storm, ESPN SportsCenter Anchor will host the 47^th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon set for June 22 at Cipriani 42^nd Street in New York City.

The Gracie Awards recognize exemplary content created by, for and about women in all facets of media and entertainment.

“Throughout this past year we have seen a number of remarkable projects by and about inspirational women and Hannah Storm will serve as the ideal host to recognize their work,” said Heather Cohen, Chair, Alliance for Women in Media Foundation. “We are honored to shine a spotlight on these women, whose stories have driven cultural awareness, offered entertainment that has made us laugh, cry, and everything in between. We are delighted to return to an in-person format so that we can properly celebrate together,” added Becky Brooks, President, Alliance for Women in Media Foundation.

In addition to serving as SportsCenter Anchor, Storm is a five-time Gracie winner herself. She is an award-winning journalist, a pioneer in the field of sports broadcasting for women, founder of Brainstormin’ Productions, President of Hannah Storm Foundation who funds surgeries for children suffering with vascular anomalies and a published author. In addition to anchoring various editions of SportsCenter, Storm has co-hosted many of the network’s marquee events including: Wimbledon, the U.S. Open, the NBA Finals, the New York Marathon, Veteran’s Day, the Super Bowl, the NCAA College Football Playoff National Championship and the Rose Parade on ABC. Storm became the first woman in American television history to solo host a broadcast network’s sports series when she hosted NBC’s Major League Baseball coverage, including three World Series. Since 2018, Storm and Andrea Kremer have called Thursday night NFL games for Amazon Prime.

“It’s an honor to host the Gracies and to be among the most inspiring, empowering and talented women in our business,” said Storm. 

Performing at the Luncheon will be singer-songwriter, Curb Recording Artist, Hannah Ellis. Ellis is a mix of favorite flannel, sparkling pink wine and welcome. Whether pouring from a car radio or your phone, the act named to Rolling Stone Country’s “Artist To Watch” list reminds you big leaps often come as a series of small steps when no one is looking. She has since written songs recorded by artists, and been featured as a vocalist on songs, spanning multiple genres, including: Russell Dickerson, Carly Pearce, FOR KING + COUNTRY, Emily Weisband, Cassadee Pope, Filmore, and Sidewalk Prophets who also made her Grand Ole Opry debut. 

Presenters at the Gracie Awards Luncheon will include Paul “Cubby” Bryant, Co-Host 106.7 LiteFM Morning Show with Christine Nagy; Linsey Davis, ABC News Live Prime Anchor, Weekend “World News Tonight” Anchor, and ABC News Correspondent; Larry O’Connor, Host, O’Connor & Company on WMAL; Kate Snow, NBC Nightly News Sunday, AnchorandNBC News Senior National Correspondent; and Shelley Wade, Afternoon Host, New York City’s 94.7 The Block and podcast host All the Rage with Shelley Wade.

The National Gracie Award honorees were recognized at the Gracies Gala, May 24, at The Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills. A full list of recipients may be found on the Alliance for Women in Media website. For more information about the 2022 Gracies Luncheon or to secure tickets, please visit HERE.

About the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation and The Gracie Awards – The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (formerly known as The Foundation of American Women in Radio & Television) supports and promotes educational programs, and scholarships to benefit the media, the public, and allied fields. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has created partnerships and joint initiatives with many organizations that are philosophically aligned with the mission of the Foundation. In addition to giving $20,000 a year in scholarships to deserving female students, the Foundation also produces nationally acclaimed recognition programs, including the Gracie Awards that exemplary honor programming created by, for and about women.

For more information about The Alliance for Women in Media, please visit: allwomeninmedia.org and follow on Twitter, Instagram (@AllWomeninMedia) (#TheGracies), and Facebook.

Sponsors of The Gracies Luncheon include Audacy, Beasley Media Group, Cox Media Group, ESPN, Graham Media Group, Gray Media, iHeartMedia, Katz Media Group, NBCUniversal News Group, NCTA – The Internet & Television Association, Hofstra University, Point-To-Point, TEGNA, Townsquare Media, WABC, WideOrbit

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Media Contact: Becky Brooks 859.226.4240 and becky.brooks@allwomeninmedia.org

AVA DUVERNAY, JILLIAN MERCADO, TAMRON HALL AND POSE RECEIVE TOP HONORS AT THE 47TH ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS

Gala Hosted by Holly Robinson Peete featured Performances by Christina Perri and Celebrated Women in Media and Entertainment

PHOTOS: CLICK HERE *Credit: Getty Images for AWM (Alliance for Women in Media Foundation)

CLIPS: CLICK HERE *Credit: Courtesy of Alliance for Women in Media Foundation

LOS ANGELES (May 24, 2022) – Tonight, the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation presented the 47th Annual Gracie Awards at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, CA. Hosted by Holly Robinson Peete, the awards recognized exemplary programming created by women, for women and about women in all facets of media and entertainment.

 Highlights from the awards include:

• Actress Jillian Mercado received the Gracie Award for her role in the Showtime drama The L Word: Generation Q, which she dedicated to the millions of people with disabilities who want to see physical manifestations of themselves on screen. In a heartfelt speech she said, “It was hard to imagine that as a young disabled Latina, I would ever be on this stage with you all winning this award for Actress in a Breakthrough Role. My mind can’t honestly compute what is happening but I am so beyond thankful and grateful to be here.” She continued, “opportunities are far and few in between for the disabled community. We must do better.”
• Tamron Hall accepted the Gracie Award for “Best On-Air Talent.” In her acceptance speech, she spoke about the importance of seeing diverse role models on screen and noted her appreciation for trailblazers like Carole Simpson, Robin Roberts, Diane Sawyer, Barbara Walters, Linsey Davis. Hall concluded her speech by addressing the Texas elementary school tragedy, saying. “You don’t have to be a parent to understand pain, you don’t have to be a mom to understand loss, but you have to be a human to open your eyes and to see that none of us should rest easy tonight because too many tonight won’t be able to say goodnight.”
• Award-winning writer, director and producer Ava DuVernay accepted the award for “Best Family Series” for her first unscripted television series Home Sweet Home that sends powerful messages about inclusion and acceptance, and used the platform to encourage empathy after today’s Texas elementary school tragedy.“It’s so important to tell these [types of] stories because the stories that we tell each other matter. If we can tell stories that allow us to see each other in ways that we truly are our most intimate spaces, maybe we would safeguard so that there were not shootings, mass shootings. If we could just see each other, understand each other, have empathy for each other…. See each other,” DuVernay pressed, “and let’s be kind and better to each other. Storytelling can do that.”
• POSE was honored with the Grand Award for Drama. Actor Our Lady J took the stage to accept the award from Medalion Rahimi. “Thank you for tuning in to laugh with us, and not at us, as trans women continue to be the butt of jokes today,” she said. “We’re at a very volatile moment and a very sensitive and delicate moment for the trans community and for the world at whole. We know that we can go backwards in time and it’s organizations, and thanks to allyships of every person in this room tonight that hopefully we won’t go back in time.”
• Actress Nasim Pedrad accepted the award for “Best Actress in a Breakthrough Role in Comedy ” for CHAD, for which she is also creator, writer, executive producer and showrunner. She thanked the Alliance for Women in Media and her parents, saying, “Mom, I can’t think of anything less exciting for immigrant parents than to find out your daughter wants a career in improv, but you always encouraged me to follow my heart and do what makes me happy.”
• Rose McIver presented the award for “Best Actress in Leading Role Drama” to Melanie Lynskey for her character in Showtime’s acclaimed new series Yellowjackets. In her acceptance speech, Melanie joked, “It’s amazing to be 45 years old in a size 12…and be playing the sexiest, most interesting, most fun role of my entire career. I never thought it was going to get better, but it did.”

Singer-songwriter Christina Perri unveiled her baby bump for the first time on the red carpet and then performed during the show. She opened the gala with a special performance of her chart-topping single “A Thousand Years.” Later in the evening she returned to the stage to perform “Evergone,” a deeply personal song off of her new album about the loss of her daughter.

Additional winners, presenters and notable attendees included Brie and Nikki Bella, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Sheinelle Jones, Bethany Joy Lenz, Shannon Thornton, Sarah Thomas, Angelica Vale, Zach Sang, Ashley Williams, Mimi Rogers, the Mathis family, Ellen K, Deon Cole and more.

To view the complete list of winners, their work and acceptance speeches, visit allwomeninmedia.org.

Sponsors of the Gracie Awards include ABC, CBS, CNN, Crown Media, DJV, ESPN, Elvis Duran, NBC, NCTA, NPR, iHeart, HBO Max, Katz Media Group, Meruelo Media, National Geographic, Premiere Networks, Skyview, Showtime and Warner Entertainment.

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About The Gracie Awards

The Gracie Awards is the largest fundraiser of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (formerly known as The Foundation of American Women in Radio & Television) which supports and promotes educational programs, and scholarships to benefit the media, the public and allied fields. In addition to giving $20,000 a year away in scholarships to deserving female students, the Foundation also produces the nationally acclaimed recognition program – the Gracie Awards which honors exemplary programming created by, for and about women. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has created partnerships and joint initiatives with the Emma Bowen Foundation, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), NCTA – The Cable and Telecommunications Association and other organizations that are philosophically aligned with the mission of the Foundation. For more information about The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation and the Gracie Awards please visit allwomeninmedia.org and follow on Twitter (@AllWomeninMedia), (#TheGracies), Instagram (@allwomeninmedia) and Facebook.

Press Contact

Sunshine Sachs

Gracies@SunshineSachs.com

HOLLY ROBINSON PEETE TO HOST 47TH ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS | CHRISTINA PERRI TO PERFORM NEW SINGLE “EVERGONE”

Awards Ceremony to take place on May 24 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel

LOS ANGELES (May 4, 2022) – The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) today announced actress Holly Robinson Peete will host the 47th Annual Gracie Awards and  multi-platinum singer-songwriter Christina Perri will give a special live performance of her brand new single, “Evergone.” The event will return in-person on Tuesday, May 24, 2022 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles, and will  honor some of the most talented women in television, radio and digital media who have demonstrated their commitment to sharing emotionally-charged, timely and compelling content that continues to further the achievements of all women in media.

“I’m thrilled to be a part of such a special day honoring the tenacity, intelligence and fierceness of my fellow women in media,” said Robinson Peete. “I attended my first Gracie Awards over 10 years ago and have been a fan of AWMF and the work they do to uplift women ever since, so being asked to come back as the host is quite the honor. I can’t wait to celebrate all of the many accomplishments in person this year.”

Since 1951, AWMF has been committed to inspiring, educating, celebrating accomplishments and expanding networks of women across all segments of media.

In the seventh consecutive year as Executive Producer, Vicangelo Bulluck will spotlight these prolific women in the industry who continue to inspire and support others, break down barriers, and lead by example in creating opportunities for future generations.

Sponsors of The Gracie Awards include Crown Media, Warner Media, CNN, NCTA – The Internet and Television Association, WWE, ESPN, Premiere Networks, Meruelo Media, Skyview, NBC Sports & News, ABC News, HBO Max, Katz Media Group, and National Geographic. Gracie Luncheon sponsors include Audacy, TEGNA, Townsquare, Graham Media, Cox Media Group, and Hofstra University.

About The Gracie Awards

The Gracie Awards is the largest fundraiser of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (formerly known as The Foundation of American Women in Radio & Television) which supports and promotes educational programs, and scholarships to benefit the media, the public and allied fields. In addition to giving $20,000 a year away in scholarships to deserving female students, the Foundation also produces the nationally acclaimed recognition program – the Gracie Awards which honors exemplary programming created by, for and about women. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has created partnerships and joint initiatives with the Emma Bowen Foundation, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), NCTA – The Cable and Telecommunications Association and other organizations that are philosophically aligned with the mission of the Foundation. For more information about The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation and the Gracie Awards please visit allwomeninmedia.org and follow on Twitter (@AllWomeninMedia), (#TheGracies), Instagram (@allwomeninmedia) and Facebook.

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Press Contacts

Sunshine Sachs Morgan & Lylis

Gracies@SunshineSachs.com