The celebration includes a VOICES OF COURAGE tapestry, a commemorative logo and a social media campaign, using #VoicesOfCourage and #70YearsOfCourage
New York City/Los Angeles (July 15, 2021) – The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) announces a celebration of the organization’s 70th anniversary, which includes the launch of a VOICES OF COURAGE digital tapestry, a commemorative logo and a social media campaign, using #VoicesOfCourage and #70YearsOfCourage. Since its inception in 1951, AWM, originally known as American Women in Radio and Television (AWRT), has been committed to inspiring, educating, celebrating accomplishments and expanding networks of women across all segments of media.
AWM is the aggregation of all women’s
voices in media, and the leaders of the organization know that every voice is
not only different, but rich in its individual context. In order to share these
narratives in an even more personal and meaningful way, AWM has developed a new
website, which has been titled, “Voices.” AWM’s leadership encourages media
professionals to join the celebration by contributing to the tapestry. To view
the VOICES OF COURAGE tapestry and add the individual who inspires you, visit celebrateawm.org.
“The Alliance for Women in Media was
founded by courageous women 70 years ago and has been led by courageous women
(and men) ever since. It is fitting that we are celebrating 70 years of courage
in tandem with recognizing the unparalleled determination and bravery shown by
frontline journalists over the last year through the 46th Annual
Gracie Awards,” said Becky Brooks, President, AWM/F. “This marks an important
year in our organization’s history, and we are committed to supporting and
advancing women in media for another 70 years.”
In 1960, the Alliance for Women in
Media formed an educational foundation – the first of its kind established by
any professional broadcasting organization, and in 1975, the Foundation began
an annual awards program, recognizing outstanding content created by, for and
about women. In 1997 those awards became The Gracies, named after Gracie Allen,
a media pioneer who embodied the character of the awards. Learn more about The
Gracie Awards at https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/.
Sponsors
of the 70th Anniversary Celebration include WWE, Crown Media Family
Networks, CNN, Ford Motor Company Fund, Katz Media Group, NCTA – The Internet
and Television Association and Ziploc®.
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.
###
Thank you to the generous sponsors of the 70th Anniversary Celebration.
April 15, 2021 (New York City/Los Angeles) – The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) Scholarship Program is now accepting applications for the 2021 fall semester. In partnership with the Ford Motor Company Fund, The Loreen Arbus Foundation, and NCTA – The Internet and Television Association, AWMF recognizes and supports future generations of women in media with over $20,000 in scholarships awarded annually.
“For years, these
generous partners have stood with AWMF to support, encourage, and promote women
in the media industry at every level, and we are proud to continue that
tradition of advancing women in media,” says Heather Cohen, Chair, AWM/F
Board of Directors. “Now, more than ever, we are proud to provide deserving
young women the opportunity to complete their education and meet their full
potential.”
The AWMF Scholarship Program opportunities include:
In partnership
with the Ford Motor Company Fund, the “Emerging Voices” Scholarship consists of
one $4,000 scholarship for a student pursuing a media career as a producer,
writer, director or on the business side of media companies in areas such as
television, radio, digital media, streaming, publishing, advertising, and
production, made payable directly to the student’s educational institute in the
name of Ford Motor Company Fund for the 2021 fall academic semester. The
selected winner will be given the opportunity to be mentored by an Alliance for
Women in Media Board member. Winning submissions will be featured on AWM’s
website and social networks. The mission of the Ford Motor Company fund is to
strengthen communities and help make people’s lives better. Education is the
foundation for success. It is key to making lives better, creating social
change and building sustainable communities. That’s why Ford Fund invests more
than $16 million annually to support educational initiatives that empower
people to envision and lead change in their communities or in their own lives.
In partnership
with the Ford Motor Company Fund, the “Empowering America” Scholarship program
consists of one $5,000 scholarship for a winning student pursuing a media career as talent in front of
the camera or microphone in an area such as television, radio, or digital
media, made payable directly to the student’s educational institute in the name
of Ford Motor Company Fund for the 2021 fall academic semester. The selected
winner will be given the opportunity to work with the Ford Motor Company Fund
to conduct interviews as part of the Faces of Ford Fund program. Winning
submissions will be featured on AWM’s website and social networks.
The Alliance for Women in
Media Foundation engaged in a partnership with The Loreen Arbus Foundation to
focus on the needs, achievements, contributions, and stories of citizens with
disabilities. The Loreen Arbus Foundation and AWMF Scholarship provides a
deserving female communications/media undergraduate or graduate student with a
scholarship to their educational institution for $2,500 and a ticket to attend
an upcoming AWM event. Winning submissions will be featured on AWM’s website
and social networks. The Loreen Arbus
Foundation supports a broad scope of interests including advocacy for women and
girls, scientific and medical research, minorities, people with disabilities,
gender and racial equality in media, the arts, animal rights, and global peace.
The Foundation has established and funds many scholarships that both enhance
and elevate social consciousness around key societal issues. Loreen Arbus holds
the trailblazing distinction of being the first woman to head programming for a
U.S. network, a feat accomplished twice (both at Showtime and Cable Health
Network/Lifetime).
The NCTA – The Internet and Television Association &
AWMF Scholarship allows a deserving female communications/media undergraduate
or graduate student to create an original piece (essay, digital short, video,
animation, multi-media or other concept chosen by the student) that will be
featured in NCTA and AWMF media distribution channels. In addition, the chosen
student will receive a scholarship to their educational institution for $5,000
and a ticket to attend an upcoming AWM event. This scholarship serves to fund a
promising student’s education as well as to provide a unique and compelling
piece for her resume. NCTA believes in a technology and entertainment future
that will advance innovation, inspire creativity, unleash connectivity, and
exceed consumer expectations for a wide range of high-quality services. Annually,
the organization donates millions to efforts that include everything from
enhancing student learning and digital literacy, to restoring and rebuilding
towns after natural disasters, and much more.
The Alliance for Women in
Media, celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, is the longest-established
professional association dedicated to advancing women in all facets of media.
The Foundation supports educational programs and scholarships and hosts the
Gracie Awards, which recognize individual achievement and programing by, for,
and about women at the student, local, and national level.
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 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®, 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 Twitter and Facebook. For more information about the Gracie Awards and to submit your entries, please visit www.allwomeninmedia.org/gracies.
In its 70th year since inception, the Alliance for Women in Media and its Foundation (AWM/F) are pleased to announce their 2021 National Board of Directors. New to the Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) Board are: Kenetta Bailey, senior vice president, marketing, Clear Channel Outdoor (CCO); Marsha Cooke, senior vice president, global news and special projects, Vice Media, LLC.; and, Melissa Wright, chief content officer, Twin Cities PBS (TPT). New to the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) Board are: Svetlana Gans, vice president & associate general counsel, NCTA, The Internet & Television Association; Mike McVay, president, McVay Media Consulting; Josie Thomas, former chief diversity & inclusion officer, CBS; and Christine Travaglini, president, Katz Radio Group.
Officers
of the board have been announced as
Heather Cohen, executive vice
president, The Weiss Agency, serving as chair, Annie Howell, chief communications
officer, Crown Media Family Networks (Hallmark), serving as incoming
chair, Keisha Sutton-James, vice president & CEO, Sutton Button
Productions LLC, serving as immediate past chair, Joyce Fitch, legal consultant, serving as
treasurer, and Brenda Hetrick, chief revenue officer, Matrix Solutions,
serving as incoming treasurer.
“The role of the AWM and Foundation boards is
to lead our organizations and industry as we recognize, connect and educate
women in all facets of media. We have a
true working Board,” stated Becky Brooks, president, AWM/F. “As AWM celebrate its 70th anniversary
this year, it has never been more important to have strong, insightful
leadership. This year’s new directors have voiced their dedication to donating
time and resources to guide these organizations to the next level. We are thrilled to have these talented, accomplished
women joining our leadership for the next two years.”
The following individuals will continue to serve
as Directors at Large of AWM: Katina Arnold, vice president, corporate communications,
ESPN; Abby Auerbach, executive vice president, chief communications officer,
TVB; Abby Greensfelder, founder
& CEO, Everywoman Studios; Brenda
Hetrick, chief revenue officer, Matrix Solutions; Michelle Ray, executive director,
The Walter Kaitz Foundation; Sandra
Rice, senior vice president, outreach
and strategic partnerships, Center for Talent Innovation; Esther-Mireya Tejeda, chief marketing & communications officer,
SoundExchange;and, Katherine Wolfgang, head of public
relations, CBC. Deborah Parenti, publisher,
RadioInk, RBR and TVBR will continue to serve as a Director at Large of AWMF.
AWMF is also pleased to announce that AWM/F
board members Heather Cohen, Annie Howell and Mike McVay
will continue to serve as chairs for the Gracie Awards. Learn more about the
Gracie Awards, presented by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation, at https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/.
As AWM kicks off its 70th
anniversary celebrations, there are ways to stay involved. Follow AWM’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, sign up for the FastForward
Newsletter, and enjoy the growing range of member benefits by becoming a member of AWM today.
###
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.
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 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®, 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 Twitter and Facebook. For more
information about the Gracie Awards and to submit your entries, please visit www.allwomeninmedia.org/gracies.
The Gracie Awards, presented by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF), has opened the call for entries for the 46th Annual Gracie Awards Gala and Gracie Awards Luncheon. AWMF is also pleased to announce Ziploc® Brand as the Diamond Sponsor of the 2021 Gracies.
“Each year, the
Gracie Awards celebrate and honor truly exceptional content by, for and about
women. We know the circumstances of this
year have made production much more difficult, which is why we are more
committed than ever to honoring the remarkable work that has been created,
especially with the important milestone of AWM’s 70th Anniversary coming up
next year,” says Becky Brooks, AWMF executive director. “As our biggest
fundraiser of the year, the Gracies enables the Alliance for Women in Media
Foundation to deliver on its promise of furthering the connection, education
and recognition of women in media, even during difficult times.”
Serving again as chairs for
the 2021 Gracie Awards are Heather Cohen, executive vice president, The
Weiss Agency and AWM/F Board member, Annie Howell, chief communications
officer, Crown Media Family Networks and AWM/F Board member 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 2021.
The 2020 Gracie Awards were celebrated through an ongoing virtual experience. Highlights of the 2020 Virtual Gracies included honoring outstanding and powerful talent such as: Katy Perry as the Gracies Impact Award recipient; Danai Gurira of The Walking Dead; Gayle King of CBS News; Naomi Watts of The Loudest Voice; Juju Chang of ABC News’ Nightline; Angela Yee of Angela Yee’s Lip Service podcast; and, Natasha Lyonne, accepting on behalf of the producers of Russian Doll. Additionally, Dr. Sanjay Gupta delivered a Special Award Tribute to frontline journalists bringing COVID-19 and Black Lives Matter coverage to homes across the United States. Malin Åkerman and many other presenters joined Susan Kelechi Watson, from This Is Us, as our host and Mickey Guyton as entertainment for the night. Footage from the virtual experiences can be found at https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/2020-gracie-awards-content/.
The 2021 Gracie Awards entry
eligibility air dates are from January 1, 2020 through December 31, 2020. Early
Bird rates for entries end on December 10, 2020, at 11:59 PM Eastern. The
deadline for all entries is January 14, 2021, at 11:59 PM Eastern. Entry
details including pricing, updated categories can be viewed at https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/call-for-entries/.
With the generous of support
of NCTA – The Internet & Television Association, the newly announced NCTA
Gracies Scholarship will provide 10 scholarships to assist with the costs of
Gracie entries. Learn more about the scholarship at https://allwomeninmedia.org/foundation/scholarships/.
To see more information about
the Gracie Awards, visit https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/.
The application to judge the Gracies will be available soon.
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 Twitter and
Facebook. For more information about the Gracie Awards and to submit
your entries, please visit www.allwomeninmedia.org/gracies.
LOS
ANGELES (September 10, 2020) – This evening, the Alliance for Women
in Media Foundation (AWMF) held the 45th annual Gracie Awards hosted by “This
is Us” star Susan Kelechi Watson.
This year, the Gracie Awards recognized more than 120 outstanding women and men
in media for their bravery, determination and accomplishments, and recognized
exemplary programming created by, for and about women.
Highlights from the awards show included the
following:
Katy Perryreceived
the Gracies Impact Award for the positive influence on society through her
music. “This is an incredible honor to
have this award about women and helping support women, which is something I am
so incredibly passionate about. I love to provide opportunities in my life,
professional and personal, for women to do incredible jobs and work alongside
with,” Perry said during her acceptance speech, noting that “one of the most important things is to have
representation.”
Country star Mickey Guytonperformed
her hit song “Heaven Down Here,” and for the first time ever performed “Without
a Net,” an original song she had recorded to appear in the upcoming documentary
“Stuntwomen: The Untold Hollywood Story.”
Tamron Hallaccepted
her award for Best Talk Show and dedicated
it to Breonna Taylor.
Gayle King was awarded the Best Special or Variety Program for her memorable interview with R.
Kelly and mentioned during her speech that she would “love to sit down with him for another interview again”
post-trial.
Dr.Sanjay Gupta delivered a Special Award
Tribute to frontline journalists bringing COVID-19 and Black Lives Matter coverage
to homes across America, including from
Norah O’Donnell, Debora Patta, and Martha Teichner from CBS; Kristen Dahlgren, Dasha Burns, Savannah
Guthrie, and Blayne Alexander from NBC;
CNN’s Brooke Baldwin; Los
Angeles Times’ Molly Hennessy-Fiske;
Paola Ramos and Isobel Yeung of Vice News.
The Gracies recognized “Silent All
These Years,” an episode of Grey’s Anatomy that
dealt with sexual assault and rape. The episode resonated with women and had
far-reaching effects — RAINN reported a 43% uptick in call volume to its
National Sexual Assault Hotline in the immediate wake of the airing of this
episode.
Nightline’s co-anchor Juju Chang accepted their win for Best Hard News Feature for their story
about trans women of color. “We wanted to
tell the stories of these women who are not only under assault, but who’s
stories are often ignored,” Chang said.
Natasha Lyonneaccepted
for Best Producer – Entertainment for
their Netflix series “Russian Doll,” on behalf of herself, Leslye Headland and Amy
Poehler, giving a specific shoutout to Poehler saying, “[she] is such a leader in this field, who
has single handedly changed the world and the scope of what we can do, how we
hold the space for each other … it is such an honor to walk beside you.”
Naomi
Watts won for Best
Actress in a Supporting Role – Drama for her portrayal as Gretchen Carlson
in Showtime’s “The Loudest Voice.” She dedicated her award to Gretchen for her
“incredible bravery and courage”
noting it was “an honor” to tell her
story.
Angela
Yee won for Best
Podcast – Entertainment thanking
the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation for the award, expressing “this is one of the highest honors we can
have from other women who understand how empowering something like this is.”
Presenters for the awards included Malin Åkerman, Chelsea Gilligan, Angélica
Vale; Cassie DiLaura, Erin Lim, Dr. Imani Walker, Elaina
Doré Smith, Jacqueline Obradors,
Julie Carmen and Medalion Rahimi.
Additional winners of the night included Danai Gurira of AMC’s “The Walking
Dead” for Best Actress in a Leading Role
– Drama, , Stephanie Beatriz for Best Actress in a Supporting Role – Comedy
for her work in FOX’s “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” Fiona Shaw for Best Actress
in a Supporting Role – Drama for “Killing Eve,” Niecy Nash for Best On-Air
Talent for “Black Girls Rock,” NBC’s “Superstore” won for Best Ensemble Cast with Lauren Ash
accepting, and many more.
“We are
honored to celebrate these incredible voices, recognize these poignant stories
and bring the Gracie Awards to audiences around the world with our first-ever
virtual awards show,” said Becky Brooks, Executive Director, Alliance for Women
in Media Foundation. “We applaud the
brave storytellers who have reported from the front lines, challenged
conventional thinking, and produced content that has created real change – we
need this storytelling now more than ever.”
The Gracie Awards is the largest
fundraiser of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation 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 visitallwomeninmedia.org and follow onTwitter (@AllWomeninMedia),
(#TheGracies),Instagram (@allwomeninmedia) andFacebook.
Show Will Feature Impact Award Recipient Katy Perry, and Honorees Including Danai
Gurira, Naomi Watts, Michelle Williams, Natasha Lyonne, Amy Poehler, Tamron
Hall, Gayle King and More
Program will
Feature Performances by Mickey Guyton,
Special Award Tribute by Dr.Sanjay Gupta to
Frontline Journalists Bringing COVID-19 and Black Lives Matter Coverage to
Homes across America, and Grey’s
Anatomy’s “Silent All These Years” Episode will Receive a Stand-out Moment
The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) announced the 45th annual Gracie Awards program will air live on AWMF’s Facebook page on September 10, 2020 at 7pm ET/PT. The virtual event will recognize esteemed honoree Katy Perry, who will receive the Gracies Impact Award, which is presented to an artist who has made a positive impact on society through their music. Dr.Sanjay Gupta will deliver a special tribute to frontline journalists who covered breaking news regarding the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic and Black Lives Matter movement, and some of the most talented women in television, radio, and digital media will be honored for their incredible contributions to media this year including Naomi Watts, Michelle Williams, Natasha Lyonne, Amy Poehler, Tamron Hall, and Angela Yee.
Danai Gurira, Norah
O’Donnell, Fiona Shaw, Andrea Mitchell and Gayle King will appear in the virtual show along with country
superstar Mickey
Guyton who will perform twice throughout the night, and Grey’s Anatomy’s “Silent All These Years” episode will receive the
Grand Award for the incredibly powerful episode which brought attention to
sexual assault survivors. Tune-in on Thursday, Sept. 10 at 7 pm ET/PT at
@AllWomenInMedia on Facebook and Instagram, as well as the Alliance for Women in Media’s YouTube page.
“There’s no doubt
that this year has been indescribable – but one thing that has stayed
consistent is the level of content that continues to be generated by and for
women,” said Becky Brooks, Executive
Director, Alliance for Women in Media Foundation. “We understand that people are going through
unprecedented times and it’s our commitment to bring the world in for the first
time and see the magic of the Gracie Awards as we celebrate some of the brave
and poignant, storytellers of our time.”
In the fifth 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 Ziploc®, Facebook, NCTA – The Internet & Television
Association, CNN, Crown Media, CBS Corporation, Katz Media Group, Beasley Media
Group, and the Ford Motor Company.
Please celebrate all Gracie Award winners with us by watching the video montage dedications on the AWM website. Acceptance speeches of all honorees highlighting their content are available in montages beginning today.
About The Gracie Awards
The Gracie Awards is the largest fundraiser of the
Alliance for Women in Media Foundation 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 visitallwomeninmedia.org and follow on Twitter (@AllWomeninMedia), (#TheGracies),
Instagram (@allwomeninmedia) andFacebook.
45th ANNUAL GRACIE AWARDS WINNERS ANNOUNCED BY THE ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION
This week, The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) announced the winners of the 45th annual Gracie Awards. The list of honorees includes such esteemed honorees as Michelle Williams, Amy Poehler, Natasha Lyonne, Tamron Hall, Naomi Watts, Angela Yee, Norah O’Donnell, Niecy Nash, Stephanie Beatriz, and Soledad O’Brien, along with more than 100 of the most talented women in television, radio and digital media.
The Gracies
recognize exemplary programming created by, for and about women in radio,
television, and interactive media. Honorees are selected in national, local and
student markets, including both commercial and non-commercial outlets. This
year’s honorees represent the substance and ethos of women’s storytelling and
journalism at its best. Their work during
this global state of affairs – full of innovation, courage and endurance –
serves as inspiration today for the journalists of tomorrow.
Some of the honorees have recorded special messages of thanks and appreciation:
Becky Brooks, Executive Director, The Alliance for Women in
Media Foundation stated, “Our leadership is proud to honor the best of the best
who embody the spirit and intention of the Alliance for Women in Media
Foundation’s Gracie Awards. We want to thank
those on the front lines telling the important stories still impacting our
world. It is our distinguished honor to recognize the reporters, hosts,
producers and media executives who are working to ensure the public is
informed. We know everyone in media has been impacted in some way, and we
continue to salute this outstanding list of honorees for their award-winning
passion, energy and perseverance.”
AWMF
extends a tremendous thank you to sponsors of the Gracies, who are committed to
supporting the future of women in media.
Along with Ziploc® Brand, the Diamond Sponsor of the 2020 Gracies Gala,
this year’s sponsors include Crown Media, CBS, CNN, Katz Media Group, NCTA –
The Internet and Television Association, Beasley Media Group and Cox Media
Group.
TV
NATIONAL HONOREES
60 Minutes: The Chibok Girls (60 Minutes)
CBS News
News Magazine
Abby McEnany (Work in Progress)
SHOWTIME
Actress in a Breakthrough Role
Alex Duda (The Kelly Clarkson Show)
NBCUniversal
Showrunner – Talk Show
Am I Next? Trans and Targeted
ABC NEWS Nightline
Hard News Feature
Angela Kang (The Walking Dead)
AMC
Showrunner- Scripted
Better Things
FX Networks
Comedy
BookTube
YouTube Originals
Non-Fiction Entertainment
Caroline Waterlow (Qualified)
ESPN Films
Producer- Documentary /Unscripted / Non-Fiction
Catherine Reitman (Workin’ Moms)
Wolf + Rabbit Entertainment (CBC/Netflix)
Actress in a Leading Role – Comedy or Musical
Catherine Reitman (Workin’ Moms)
Wolf + Rabbit Entertainment (CBC/Netflix)
Director – Comedy
Clarissa Ward (CNN International)
CNN International
Reporter/Correspondent
Danai Gurira (The Walking Dead)
AMC
Actress in a Leading Role – Drama
Fiona Shaw (Killing Eve)
BBC AMERICA
Actress in a Supporting Role – Drama
Francesca Gregorini (Killing Eve)
BBC AMERICA
Director – Scripted
Gender Discrimination in the FBI
NBC News Investigative Unit
Interview Feature
Grey’s Anatomy
ABC Studios
Drama- Grand Award
Izzie Pick Ibarra (THE MASKED SINGER)
FOX Broadcasting Company
Showrunner – Unscripted
Michelle Williams (Fosse/Verdon)
FX Networks
Actress in a Leading Role – Made for TV Movie or
Limited Series
Mission Unstoppable
Produced by Litton Entertainment
Family Series
MSNBC 2019 Democratic Debate (Atlanta)
MSNBC
Special or Variety – Breakthrough
Naomi Watts (The Loudest Voice)
SHOWTIME
Actress in a Supporting Role – Made for TV Movie or
Limited Series
Host – Morning Drive – Small Market [Radio – Local]
Rebekah Maroun (Bex) (Matty In The Morning)
iheartmedia
Producer – Commercial [Radio – Local]
Shannon Farren (Gary and Shannon Show)
iHeartMedia
Crisis Coverage/Breaking News [Radio – Local]
Shannon Farren (Gary and Shannon Show)
iHeartMedia
Talk Show [Radio – Local]
Starving for Perfection
WTOP-FM
Hard News Feature [Radio – Local]
RADIO
LOCAL STUDENT HONOREES
Brittany McGowan (Women Surfers Fundraise In Honor Of
Feamle Surfing Icon)
Radio Hofstra University – WRHU FM / WRHU.org
Host/Personality
Eli Finkelson (A League of Our Own – Single Moms Share
& Inspire)
Radio Hofstra University – WRHU FM / WRHU.org
Talk Show
Julia Presti (A League of Our Own – Fearless Female
Firefighters)
Radio Hofstra University – WRHU FM / WRHU.org
Public Affairs
Karina Gonzalez (KUNR Public Radio & Noticiero
Móvil)
University of Nevada, Reno
Interview Feature
Madison Bristowe (Cityscape:Back to the Garden,
Remembering Woodstock)
WFUV / Fordham University
Producer
Marian Mohamed (The barrier between us is breaking:
How politics brought my mom and me closer)
KUOW Puget Sound Public Radio
News Feature
INTERACTIVE
MEDIA STUDENT HONOREES
Eliot Schiaparelli (Around My Block)
WFUV / Fordham University
Original Online Programming
Kacie Candela (Prickly Politics: Women in the Room)
WFUV / Fordham University
Podcast
Celebration details for this year’s winners will be announced soon.
About The Gracie Awards
The Gracies 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.
The Alliance
for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) has made the decision to postpone the 45th
Annual Gracie Awards Gala, scheduled for May 19th, due to recommendations from
public health officials surrounding the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
The safety of our honorees, staff and partners involved in the annual gala
remains top priority. The Gracies Gala will now take place on September 22,
2020 at the Beverly Wilshire, Beverly Hills, A Four Seasons Hotel.
“We are
grateful to the women and men who are keeping the public connected and informed
to stay healthy and safe during the rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic,” said
Becky Brooks, Executive Director of AWM. “In this unprecedented time, we must
come together as a community in media and as human beings. We are looking
forward to the day when we can once again convene to honor the brave reporters,
creators and the extraordinary programming in all mediums of news and
entertainment.”
The Gracie
Awards Gala honors outstanding individual achievement and programming by, for
and about women in national television, radio and interactive media. AWMF will contact this year’s entrants within
the next few weeks, followed by a public announcement of the winners.
AWMF extends
a tremendous thank you to sponsors of the Gracies Gala who are committed to
supporting the future of women in media.
Along with Ziploc® Brand, the Diamond Sponsor of the 2020 Gracies Gala,
this year’s sponsors include: Crown Media Family Networks; ViacomCBS; CNN; Katz
Media Group; NCTA – The Internet & Television Association; and, Beasley
Media Group and Cox Media Group, sponsors of the Gracies Luncheon.
The Alliance for Women in Media
(AWM) hosted the annual Gracies
Leadership Awards luncheon on Thursday, November 21 to a capacity crowd
at the Plaza Hotel in New York City.
Keynote speaker Elizabeth Smart eloquently gave an awe-inspiring address,
sharing her captivating story of overcoming the trauma of her 9-month abduction,
at the age of fourteen. Smart shared
with the audience, “I don’t think that you are made by what happens to you. I think you are made by the choices you make
after things happen to you.” She ended
the speech, saying, “As I move forward with my life, I am dedicated to
preventing what happened to me from happening to anyone else and continuing to
empower women, and girls of all ages, as much as I can.”
Six female leaders in media were
honored at the event, along with the Inaugural AWM Legacy Leadership recipient,
Chickie Bucco. Highlights from their
speeches include:
Mary Berner, President and Chief
Executive Officer, Cumulus Media, shared how she watched more and more females
rise to the top in the magazine industry but said there is still work to be
done in radio. Berner shared a quote by
Maya Angelou, saying, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you
know better, do better.” She continued
by saying, “At Cumulus, we know better, and we are working hard to do better.”
Weezie Kramer, Chief Operating Officer,
Entercom Communications, thanked those who have helped her along the way, and
said, “Looking back on moments in my career, the times that I was able to help
others find their super powers or help them achieve their ambitions, whatever
that ambition may be, those are the moments that give me the greatest joy.”
Rosemary Mercedes, Chief Communications
Officer, Univision Communications Inc., thanked her mother for teaching her how
to be strong, and proudly said, “It’s so easy to get caught up on headlines of
the day – the ‘Me Toos’ and the statistics, which are not as great as they
should be.But, when you expand
your view and think about the century and where we were in 1901 to where we are
today, it is such a wonderful time to be a woman. I know there’s work to be done, but it’s a
great time to be a woman today.”
Michelle Rice, General Manager, TV One,
shared that as a child, she had big dreams.
Rice continued her acceptance speech, saying, “So many times I have been
the first – the first woman, the first person of color, the first woman
of color. Maybe you have been the
first. Be fearless. Your fearlessness will ensure that you will
certainly not be the last.”
Michelle Vicary, EVP, Programming and
Network Publicity, Crown Media Family Networks, beamed as she told the crowd
how much she loves the work she does. Vicary
said, “In the last few years, our industry has undergone a seismic shift. Women are more empowered than ever before,
and this is in large part because other women stepped up and paved the
way. I have personally had so many
female mentors that have helped me along the way.”
Danyelle Wright, VP, Employment &
Labor Law and Chief Diversity Officer, The E.W. Scripps Company,began
her speech recalling her mother telling her from a young age that she should become
a lawyer. She shared, “One particular
word comes to mind when I think of why I do what I do – calling. My calling is to help people, to carry other
people’s burdens, to stand in the gap, resolve problems, take the hits, and
make things just a little better, even when it’s tough on me. That’s why I do what I do.”
Chickie Bucco, upon accepting the
Inaugural AWM Legacy Leadership Award, thanked her family, and said, “When I
started, it was really the Mad Men days.”
She continued, saying, “The people that I worked with and the people
that I worked for were wonderful to me.”
“This is a really important event because what it does is really our three pillars – it’s recognition, it’s education and it’s connection,” said Becky Brooks, executive director of AWM. She continued, “What a gift we have that our education is Elizabeth Smart as a keynote speaker.”
Sponsors of the event were Ford
Motor Company, CBS Corporation, Benztown, Cox Media Group, Crown Media Family
Networks, Cumulus Media, Discovery, Entercom Communications, Katz Media Group, NCTA
– The Internet & Television Association, Nielsen, TV One, Univision
Communications Inc. and vCreative.
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.
The Alliance for Women in Media
(AWM) is pleased to announce Elizabeth
Smart, author, founder of the “Elizabeth Smart Foundation” and children’s
advocate, will serve as keynote at the Gracies Leadership Awards on Thursday,
Nov. 21, 2019, at The Plaza Hotel, New York City. 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
has a strong history of supporting and celebrating women in media. I am honored to be a part of an event that
aims to inspire a new generation of trailblazers,” said Elizabeth Smart, past
Gracie winner and keynote speaker for the event.
Elizabeth Smart is best known for
her abduction in 2002 and has since become the founder of the “Elizabeth Smart
Foundation” and an advocate for change related to child abduction, recovery
programs, and National legislation. She
is also the author of the New York Times best-selling book “My Story”, “You’re
Not Alone: The Journey From Abduction to Empowerment” and “Where There’s
Hope.”
“The Alliance for Women in Media is
proud to honor women for their extraordinary accomplishments,” said Becky
Brooks, executive director, AWM/F. “It is our honor to have Elizabeth Smart, a
past Gracie winner, as this year’s keynote speaker, as her address will surely
inspire and empower all in attendance.”
Tickets are available for AWM
members at a rate of $250 and for non-members at a rate of $350. A special
student rate of $100 is available for undergraduate students with proof of
enrollment. Students may also apply for a sponsored ticket made available
through the CBS
Fellowship.
For table sales with premium
seating or additional support opportunities, contact Alliance for Women in
Media Executive Director Becky Brooks at becky.brooks@allwomeninmedia.org.
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.
