WASHINGTON—The NAB Leadership Foundation has graduated its 16-member 2026 Broadcasting Leadership Training class, an executive MBA-style program designed to equip senior-level executives with the strategic and operational skills to lead TV and radio organizations.

With this year’s graduating class, the program—now operating for more than 26 years—brings its alumni network to more than 448 leaders, NABLF said.

The 2026 graduating class was the first under Co-Deans Trila Bumstead and Mark Jaromin, both BLT alumni. The deans have evolved the program’s curriculum to address today’s media landscape, NABLF said, with training on artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.

This year’s graduates represent a diverse cross-section of the industry, NABLF said. They are:

• Fletcher Brown, operations manager and program director, Big River Broadcasting
• Jerome David Crumpton, general sales and marketing manager, Courtney French Broadcasting LLC
• Jennifer Dale, vice president of recruiting, Gray Media
• Joey Figueroa, vice president and director of sales, Univision Orlando, TelevisaUnivision
• Whitney Grover, general manager and director of sales, KJRH Tulsa, The E.W. Scripps Co.
• Valerie Guyton, president and general manager, KWES; KIDY/KXVA; KYTX and KBMT/KJAC, Tegna
• Ryan Hatch, senior vice president and market manager, Phoenix, Bonneville
• Tiffany Hickman, vice president and general sales manager, Holston Valley Broadcasting
• Andria Langston, founder, Legacy Media Productions; owner, WDKX Radio
• Jaimie León, vice president and general manager, WSLS, Graham Media Group
• Samantha Linn, controller and chief accounting officer, Morgan Murphy Media
• Pamela McKay, vice president and market manager, Radio One Atlanta
• Allison Smith, president and general manager, KETV, Hearst
• Katelin Tinley, vice president and market manager, CMG Long Island Radio, Cox Media Group
• Haley Townsend, regional director of digital content, Northeast, Fox TV Stations
• Scott Trabandt, news director, CMG Pittsburgh TV, Cox Media Group

“This year’s class demonstrated exceptional curiosity, collaboration and strategic vision, particularly in exploring how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are reshaping media,” Michelle Duke, president of NABLF, said. “Their passion for the business of broadcasting and commitment to innovation give us tremendous confidence for the future of our industry.”

The NAB Leadership Foundation (NABLF) recently announced the recipients of the Diane Sutter Shooting Star Award and the Broadcast Leadership Training (BLT) Champion Award during its annual BLT Alumni Reception held in Las Vegas during 2026 NAB Show.

This year’s Diane Sutter Shooting Star Award honor went to Lori Waldon for her outstanding leadership and contributions to the broadcast industry. Waldon is president and general manager of Hearst Television station KOAT-TV and graduated from the BLT class of 2016. She has been a trailblazer, advancing through the ranks of television news with an intuitive knowledge of programming and how to best serve local audiences.

Waldon was praised for her ability to build a collaborative culture and equip her teams for success. She is known for her keen understanding of people and for empowering and mentoring others to advance their broadcasting careers.

This year’s BLT Champion Award was presented to Barbara Kreisman, recently retired chief of the Video Division for the Federal Communications Commission, in recognition of her long-term support of the BLT program and overall impact on the broadcast industry. She has played a central role with BLT since its earliest days, serving on the faculty and encouraging other FCC staff and commissioners to take part over the past 25 years.

“Throughout their careers, both Lori and Barbara demonstrated exemplary leadership in their respective positions,” stated NABLF president Michelle Duke. “Both women have been positive and powerful role models for the up-and-coming generation of pathfinders and innovators in our industry. We are so proud to honor them with these prestigious awards.”

Readers who know someone who would benefit from the transformative experience of the BLT program should encourage encourage them to apply for the 2027 cohort by May 18, 2026: https://www.nabfoundation.org/programs/broadcast-leadership/.

WASHINGTON—The National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) has announced the appointment of Valari Dobson Staab, chairman of NBCUniversal Local, and Todd Hartman, executive vice president of Kalil & Co., Inc., to its board of directors.

“Valari and Todd bring exceptional leadership and deep industry expertise to our board,” said NABLF president Michelle Duke. “Their perspectives will be instrumental as we continue to expand our programs and strengthen our efforts to develop the next generation of broadcast and media leaders.”

Staab oversees NBCUniversal Local’s portfolio of 50 media properties, including NBC and Telemundo-owned stations, regional sports networks and streaming channels. Under her leadership, the division has become a multiplatform media powerhouse, delivering nearly 1,000 hours of local news and content each week across 30 U.S. markets, including Puerto Rico. A veteran executive with more than 40 years in media, Staab has led innovation in bilingual news, investigative reporting and streaming. She joined NBCUniversal in 2011 and was named chairman in 2022. She is a member of the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame and a recognized industry leader.

Hartman is executive vice president of Kalil & Co., a leading media brokerage firm specializing in broadcast and digital mergers and acquisitions. With more than 25 years of experience, he has advised on transactions across television, radio, out-of-home advertising and digital infrastructure. Known for his strategic insight and deep industry relationships, Hartman has helped guide clients through complex deals across the evolving media landscape.

WASHINGTON—The NAB Leadership Foundation (NABLF) has announced the Class of 2026 participants for its two flagship collegiate programs, the Media Sales Academy (MSA) and the Technology Apprenticeship Program (TAP). These workforce development initiatives are preparing the next generation of leaders for careers in broadcasting.

“With our MSA and TAP programs, our goals are to increase job readiness for young people and strengthen the hiring pipeline for local stations who need to fill sales and engineering roles,” said NABLF President Michelle Duke. “Upon graduation, the students in our programs will be at the forefront of merging broadcasting’s infrastructure with new technologies to advance our industry. We are excited about seeing them enter the broadcasting workforce.”

In response to the industry’s need for entry-level, multi-skilled workers who can take broadcasting into the future, the foundation has added topics such as AI literacy and ethics, content creation and critical thinking to all program curriculums. The programs also provide immersive, real-world training by placing students in paid internships at local stations.

MSA is supported by: Capitol Broadcasting Company, Graham Media Group, Gray Television, Hearst Television, Holle Foundation, iHeartMedia, Katz Media Group, Knight Foundation, Nielsen Foundation, Procter & Gamble, Sinclair and TEGNA, with program partnership support from the Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB).

TAP is supported by: Amazon Web Services (AWS), Black Dragon Capital, IEEE Broadcast Technology Society (BTS), For A Bright Future Foundation, Graham Media Group, Grass Valley, Hearst Television, Holle Foundation, Knight Foundation, NEP, Sinclair and Xperi, with program partnership support provided by the Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE).

TAP Class of 2026:

• Abel Assefa – Minnesota State University–Mankato
• Abiola Ajayi Samuel – Texas Southern University
• Aldo Medina – University of Michigan–Dearborn
• Alexander Villagomez – University of Michigan–Ann Arbor
• Alexandra Bueno Rivera – Arizona State University
• Amlake Tamrat – Minnesota State University–Mankato
• Andrea Baciu – Northampton County Area Community College
• Araya Lemma – Minnesota State University–Mankato
• Bryan Ogun – Minnesota State University–Mankato
• Carolina Milan Martinez – Arizona State University
• Daniel Rudolph – Omega Studios’ School of Applied Recording Arts & Sciences
• Dennis Bailey – CUNY Hunter College
• Dieu Huong (Alex) Nguyen – Dickinson College
• Edlawit Gide – Minnesota State University–Mankato
• Emiliano Lievanos – Oxnard College
• Emmanuel Sema – University of Maryland Global Campus
• Evan Berger – University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh
• Gabrielle Small – University of Central Florida
• Gracy Patel – SUNY Buffalo State University
• Hamna Hareem – Community College of Baltimore County
• Hannah Yap – University of Nevada–Las Vegas
• Jacob Porras – University of Illinois Chicago
• Jamie Salcedo – George Mason University
• Jashaun Sayles – Old Dominion University
• Judith Anya – Mercy University
• Kidus Asgedom – Minnesota State University–Mankato
• Kirubel Dula – Minnesota State University–Mankato
• Lee Cusack – Hofstra University
• Luis Hernandez-Rivera – George Mason University
• Marvin Rhodes – University of West Florida
• Matthew Lezhansky – University of California-Merced
• Miguel Mercedes – CUNY LaGuardia Community College
• Muhammad Khan – Rutgers University–New Brunswick
• Nathnael Minuta – Minnesota State University–Mankato
• Susan Xiao – The University of Alabama
• Taj John – CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College
• Tebibu Kebede – Minnesota State University–Mankato
• Tihitina Ayele – Minnesota State University–Mankato
• Tinsay Gebremariam – Minnesota State University–Mankato
• Uzra Syeda – Trine University
• Wainaina Wainaina – Kennesaw State University
• Yabsir Suga – Minnesota State University–Mankato
• Yash Patel – SUNY Buffalo State University
• Zara White – University of California–Merced
• Zyan Pesantes – New Jersey Institute of Technolog

MSA Class of 2026:

• Adalyn Gully – University of Maryland–College Park
• Aliah Dosunmu – Georgia State University
• Ben Dreyer – University of South Carolina–Columbia
• Billy Wikol – West Chester University of Pennsylvania
• Chhaya Pennant – Xavier University of Louisiana
• Curtis Townsend – Ferris State University
• Elisha Lebeau – Temple University
• Imani McCune – Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
• Jakiyah Smart – University of Louisiana at Monroe
• Kynedi Nichols – Southern University and A&M College
• Lilly Chin – Virginia Commonwealth University
• Lundon Hidalgo – University of Southern Mississippi
• Parker Tungate – Ferris State University
• Radhika Ukidave – Rutgers University–Newark
• Seaaera James – Talladega College
• Shamima Ahmed – Babson College
• Sheila Ojuro – Hampton University
• Sparkle Lawson – Howard University
• Sumaya Kashem – New York University
• Venus Jamison – University of Illinois Chicago
• Warsi Gebrehiwet – Virginia Commonwealth University
• Zacharias Ezana – Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

For more information about the Foundation’s educational programs, visit nabfoundation.org.

WASHINGTON—The NAB Leadership Foundation (NABLF) has announced the Broadcast Leadership Training (BLT) class of 2026. The people chosen for the class of 2026 started the program on Sept. 12 and will go through a 10-month executive MBA-style curriculum designed to prepare the next generation of broadcast leaders.

Known for its highly regarded program content and esteemed faculty, BLT prepares its participants to advance to the C-suite and take on operational leadership roles. Sessions focus on business acumen, management skills and critical topics like artificial intelligence, human resources and team culture, the NABLF reported.

The members of this year’s class are:

• Andria Langston, founder, Legacy Media Productions; owner, WDKX Radio
• Allison Smith, president and general manager, KETV, Hearst
• Fletcher Brown, operations manager and program director, Big River Broadcasting Corp.
• Haley Townsend, regional director of digital content, Northeast, Fox TV Stations
• Jaimie León, vice president and general manager, WSLS, Graham Media Group
• Jennifer Dale, vice president of recruiting, Gray Media
• Jerome David Crumpton, general sales and marketing manager, Courtney French Broadcasting LLC
• Joey Figueroa, vice president and director of sales, Univision Orlando, TelevisaUnivision
• Katelin Tinley, vice president and market manager, CMG Long Island Radio, Cox Media Group
• Pamela McKay, vice president and market manager, Radio One Houston
• Ryan Hatch, senior vice president and market manager, Phoenix, Bonneville
• Samantha Linn, controller and chief accounting officer, Morgan Murphy Media
• Scott Trabandt, news director, CMG Pittsburgh TV, Cox Media Group
• Tiffany Hickman, vice president and general sales manager, Holston Valley Broadcasting Corp.
• Valerie Guyton, president and general manager, KWES; KIDY/KXVA; KYTX and KBMT/KJAC, TEGNA
• Whitney Grover, director of sales and station manager, KJRH Tulsa, The E.W. Scripps Co.

“The foundation is incredibly honored to have more than 430 BLT graduates spanning over 25 years of this prestigious leadership program,” said NABLF President Michelle Duke. “We are excited to begin a new chapter with deans Marc Jaromin of Roundtable Broadcasting and Trila Bumstead of OMG Media who will carry on the legacy of program founder and dean emeritus, Diane Sutter.”

The program is supported by the generosity of the following companies: Alabama Broadcasters Association, Beasley Media Group, Bonneville International, Cox Media Group, Fox TV Stations, Futuri, Graham Media Group, Gray Media, Hearst Television, Morgan Murphy Media, Nielsen Foundation, Scripps, Tegna and TelevisaUnivision.

The application window for the next BLT class will open in February 2026. To receive updates when the application becomes available, please contact Pamela Cervera, senior program manager, NABLF, at pcervera@nab.org.

Learn more at nabfoundation.org.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation has announced that Robert De Niro, actor, producer and co-founder of Tribeca Enterprises, will receive the 2024 Service to America Leadership Award. 

The award, NABLF’s highest individual honor, is presented in recognition of charitable work and public service.

De Niro will be honored during the 2024 Celebration of Service to America Awards, presented by Bonneville International and Hearst Television and held in Washington, D.C., on June 4 at The Anthem, the NABLF reported. 

“The NAB Leadership Foundation is excited to honor Robert De Niro’s decades-long commitment to his community and the film industry,” said Foundation president and CEO Michelle Duke. “We look forward to celebrating exemplary public service by local broadcasters and award winners at the 2024 Celebration of Service to America Awards in June.”

De Niro’s passion for human rights and access to the arts is evident in his philanthropic efforts and his work with the Tribeca Festival. He co-founded the festival in 2001 to spur the economic and cultural revitalization of lower Manhattan following the attacks on the World Trade Center. De Niro serves on the board of the 911 Museum and Memorial.

Now in its 23rd year, the Tribeca Festival brings artists and diverse audiences together to celebrate storytelling in all its forms, including film, TV, music, audio storytelling, games, and immersive. With strong roots in independent film, Tribeca is synonymous with creative expression and entertainment. Tribeca champions emerging and established voices, discovers award-winning talent, curates innovative experiences, and introduces new ideas through exclusive premieres, exhibitions, conversations and live performances.

In addition to his work with Tribeca Festival, De Niro is part of FilmAid's Global Artists Council, which uses film and media to provide lifesaving information, psychological relief and hope to refugees and other communities in need.

De Niro is also a supporter of The Community, an organization that engages Nobel Peace Prize Laureates, world famous artists and international media for peace building and human rights and contributed a video to their Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In 2021, he partnered with the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation to establish the Robert De Niro Sr. Fellowship in honor of his father. The award is given annually to support mid-career artists.

Recognition for his humanitarian efforts includes the Brass Ring Award at the 2018 Carousel of Hope Ball, a biennial event dedicated to increasing awareness for diabetes, and raising funds for clinical care and diabetes research at the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes. He is also the recipient of the 2014 Muhammad Ali Celebrity Fight Night Awards for his philanthropic efforts.

De Niro’s decades-long career in the motion picture industry began in the 1960s with roles in several films. He went on to win many prestigious awards including Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor in “The Godfather, Part II” and Best Actor in “Raging Bull.” De Niro has earned Academy Award nominations for roles in several films in the Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor and Best Picture categories.

He received the Kennedy Center Honor in 2009, Cecil B. DeMille Award at the 2011 Golden Globe Awards, Hollywood Actor Award from the Hollywood Film Festival, the Stanley Kubrick Award from the BAFTA Britannia Awards, the SAG Lifetime Achievement Award and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, presented by former President Barack Obama.

Previous recipients of the Service to America Leadership Award include former first ladies Laura Bush and Nancy Reagan, renowned chef and humanitarian José Andrés, legendary artist Patti LaBelle, “Hamilton” creator and star Lin-Manuel Miranda, award-winning artist John Legend, multi-platform country music star Sara Evans and GRAMMY-winning musician Jon Bon Jovi.

The Celebration of Service to America Awards also honors local television and radio stations and broadcast groups across the country for their public service and philanthropic efforts to help their communities throughout the year. The Foundation previously announced Mutual of Omaha as the Corporate Leadership Award recipient.

Qualified press interested in covering the Celebration of Service to America Awards should contact Gaby Sibori. For more information about the awards and event, visit servicetoamerica.org. 

The National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) is now accepting entries for the 2024 Celebration of Service to America Awards. These prestigious awards recognize the critical role local radio and television stations play in their communities across the country.

Stations and broadcast groups are encouraged to submit their most impactful community service campaign from the past year. Award categories are based on market size, and NAB members and nonmembers are eligible to enter. The 2024 Celebration of Service to America Awards entry window will close on Monday, March 11, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. PST.

"The NAB Leadership Foundation strives to raise the visibility of local broadcasters and their unparallelled commitment to public service," said NAB Leadership Foundation President Michelle Duke. "We receive many stories about the incredible ways local radio and television stations engage with their listeners and viewers, from legal advocacy to fundraising to collecting essential supplies. Broadcasters are truly an integral part of their communities, and we are proud to honor them."

Winners from each category will be announced in early April, and they will receive their awards in person at the Celebration of Service to America Awards Gala in Washington, D.C., on June 4, 2024. Attendees and invited guests include policymakers, industry executives, broadcasting and media professionals and past honorees.

The Celebration of Service to America Awards is presented by Bonneville International and Hearst Television, and a special one-hour television event will air later in the year. Additional information about the awards, including eligibility and rules, is available at ServiceToAmericaAwards.org.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The National Association of Broadcasters has announced that a one-hour television and radio special of the 2023 Celebration of Service to America Awards will air nationally on over 700 local television and radio broadcast stations across the country beginning November 27 through December 24, 2023.

Presented by the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF), the Celebration of Service to America Awards honors local broadcasters for their essential role in the communities they serve. This year’s special will provide in-depth coverage of the people and the stories behind broadcasters’ public service, the NABLF reported. 

Two-time Emmy Award-winning talk show host, journalist, producer and author Tamron Hall will host the special. Hall, a member of the NABLF Board of Directors, will speak with multi-talented entertainer Wayne Brady about receiving the Service to America Leadership Award.

Broadcast celebrities will introduce each of local station winners. Celebrities on the special include: radio personality and television host Bobby Bones, sportscaster James Brown, broadcast journalist and news anchor Joie Chen, actor and talk show host Mark Consuelos, broadcast journalist and news anchor Craig Melvin, actress and talk show host Kelly Ripa and actress and comedian Sherri Shepherd.

The special was produced in partnership with Trailer Park Group and is being distributed through The Walt Disney Company. Nielsen will provide audience measurement services.

The awards were originally announced and presented to winning broadcast radio and television stations in eight categories at a gala held at The Anthem in Washington, D.C. on June 6. This year’s gala was the 25th anniversary of the event.

JPMorgan Chase received the Corporate Leadership Award, which recognizes a leading business outside of the broadcast industry that exemplifies an extraordinary focus on community service and corporate social responsibility.

A complete schedule of radio and television station airings of the special can be found at https://servicetoamericaawards.org/. 

A Spanish-translated version of the special will air on UniMás, a Spanish-language television network owned by TelevisaUnivision, and Telexitos, a Spanish-language digital multicast network owned by NBCUniversal.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) has announced that the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation has provided a $250,000 grant for the organization’s broadcast industry recruitment efforts. 

The grant from the Knight Foundation will enable NABLF to bolster its collegiate programs, provide more internships, increase diversity in the broadcast industry and conduct research to advance the broadcast industry’s career development initiatives.

A portion of the grant will fund internships for students currently participating in NABLF's Media Sales Academy (MSA) and Technology Apprenticeship Program (TAP). 

The goal of MSA is to bring entry-level sales talent to the broadcast industry by providing college students with the tools, resources and connections needed to launch a media career and stay ahead of the competition. 

TAP students receive technical education to prepare them for entry-level engineering and IT roles in broadcasting. Graduates of the program receive membership and Certified Broadcast Technologist (CBT) certification from the Society of Broadcast Engineers, along with AWS Cloud Practitioner training and certification

“We are grateful for the Knight Foundation’s generous support, which will allow the foundation to expand our industry recruitment efforts and provide more opportunities for the next generation of broadcasters,” said Michelle Duke, president of the NAB Leadership Foundation. “Their investment gives students in the Media Sales Academy and Technology Apprentice Program the chance to engage in real world application through paid internships and will prepare them for their future careers.”

“Knight Foundation is proud to support NABLF’s programs for diversifying the broadcasting industry,” added Duc Luu, director of journalism at the Knight Foundation. “Broadcasters have a tremendous opportunity to inform and engage their communities if they reflect the true breadth of the audiences they serve. The students that will go through these programs will have unique opportunities to learn about the possibilities and challenges of rewarding careers in broadcasting, and that is due to the hard work and strategies that NABLF has put in place.”

All of NABLF’s educational programs are made possible by contributions from sponsors and donors. The Future Leaders Fund enables the Foundation to expand these programs for more participants and offer resources for students and young professionals who want to pursue careers in broadcasting.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The NAB has announced that multifaceted entertainer Wayne Brady will receive the Service to America Leadership Award from the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) during the Celebration of Service to America Awards on June 6 at The Anthem in Washington, D.C. 

The award is NABLF’s highest individual citation and is presented in recognition of honorees’ charitable work and public service.

“Wayne Brady’s multifaceted career has showcased his unique talent and hilarious personality on-screen, on stage and on-the-air to the delight of audiences for decades,” said NABLF president and CEO Michelle Duke. “He has also used his immense gifts to support numerous charitable endeavors, raise our spirits and shine a light on worthwhile causes. NABLF and broadcasters across the country look forward to recognizing his generosity and compassion at the Celebration of Service to America Awards.”

Previous recipients of the Service to America Leadership Award include renowned chef and humanitarian José Andrés, legendary artist Patti LaBelle, “Hamilton” creator and star Lin-Manuel Miranda, award-winning artist John Legend, multi-platform country music star Sara Evans and GRAMMY-winning musician Jon Bon Jovi.

A five-time Emmy Award winner, Brady has performed on non-scripted series such as “The Masked Singer,” “Dancing With The Stars” and “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” He has starred in television series such as “Black Lightning,” “The Good Fight,” “American Gigolo” and “How I Met Your Mother,” and served as a voice actor on numerous animated series. Between 2001 and 2004, Brady hosted the award-winning “The Wayne Brady Show” and currently hosts “Let’s Make a Deal” since its revival in 2009.

An accomplished singer and performer, Brady was nominated for a GRAMMY Award in 2009 for Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance for his cover of the Sam Cooke song "A Change Is Gonna Come" on his debut album. In addition, he released the original single “Flirtin’ w/ Forever” following his victory on the second season of “The Masked Singer.”

Brady’s theater credits include roles as Billy Flynn in the Broadway production of “Chicago,” Lola in the Tony Award-winning Broadway production of “Kinky Boots” and Aaron Burr in the Chicago production of “Hamilton.” He also performed on Broadway as part of Freestyle Love Supreme, a unique show combining hip hop, improv and comedy which received a special Tony Award for its innovation and contributions to the world of theater.

Since 2007, Brady has been a friend of Ronald McDonald House Charities, which is dedicated to supporting families with sick children in their time of need. He also starred in a benefit concert presentation of “Ratatouille the Musical” that raised over $1 million for The Actors Fund during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the years, Brady has helped raise awareness and funds for a number of charities and foundations, including Alzheimer's Association, Aid For AIDS, Comic Relief, Foundation Fighting Blindness, K.I.S. Foundation, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Point Foundation, UNICEF, United Negro College Fund and Visual Snow Initiative.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—JPMorgan Chase will receive the 2023 Corporate Leadership Award from the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) June 6 at The Anthem auditorium here.

The award, to be presented by Bonneville International and Hearst Television, will be presented during the 2023 Celebration of Service to America, the NABLF said.

The Corporate Leadership Award is given to a leading business outside the broadcast industry that exemplifies an extraordinary focus on community service and corporate social responsibility, it said.

Circle City Broadcasting, a Black-owned TV station in Indianapolis, nominated the company for the award. The broadcaster has worked with JPMorgan Chase on several initiatives, it said.

The nomination recognizes the bank’s efforts to help businesses, communities and employees build sustainable wealth, especially in Black, Hispanic and Latino communities, it said.

“We are moved by the transformative work that JPMorgan Chase is doing in local communities to expand accessible homeownership, create a more diverse and inclusive workforce and grow small businesses,” said NABLF president and NAB chief diversity officer Michelle Duke. “The foundation is honored to present JPMorgan Chase with the 2023 Corporate Leadership Award for their outstanding commitment to community service and philanthropy.”

In 2020, JPMorgan Chase made a $30 billion Racial Equity Commitment to help close the racial wealth gap. As part of the commitment, the bank lends and directs funding to help increase sustainable homeownership, expand affordable housing, grow small businesses, support diverse suppliers, improve financial health and build a more diverse and inclusive workforce. It has deployed more than $29 billion of that commitment, NABLF said.

“For more than 200 years, JPMorgan Chase has served as an engine of the economy and champion of opportunity around the world in good and challenging times,” said Alicia Wilson, global head of philanthropy for the North America Region at JPMorgan Chase. 

“We’re proud to receive the 2023 Corporate Leadership Award from the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation, which shares our dedication to advancing equity and commitment to supporting local communities.”

More information is available on the NABLF website.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Leadership Foundation has announced that it is now accepting entries for the 2023 Celebration of Service to America Awards. The awards competition spotlights excellence in community service by local radio and television stations across the country.

Stations and broadcast groups are encouraged to enter their best community service campaign from the past year. Award categories are based on market size, and both NAB members and non-members are eligible to enter. The 2023 Celebration of Service to America Awards entry window will close on Monday, March 13, 2023 at 11:59 PST,. the NAB said. 

"We are proud to honor and acknowledge the significant role broadcasters play within their communities," said NAB Leadership Foundation president Michelle Duke. "Local television and radio stations have always been actively engaged with the neighborhoods they serve, and this is a way to show how they make a real difference in the lives of their viewers and listeners."

Finalists from each category will be announced in early April, and winners will be named at The Celebration of Service to America Awards in Washington D.C. on Tuesday, June 6, 2023. Attendees and invited guests include industry executives, broadcasting and media professionals, policy makers and past honorees.

The Celebration of Service to America Awards is presented by Bonneville International and Hearst Television, and a special one-hour television event will air later in the year. Additional information about the awards, including sponsorship opportunities, rules and event details, is available at ServiceToAmericaAwards.org. 

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) and the NAB Leadership Foundation (NABLF) have announced that they hosted a Human Resources and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Forum on November 15. 

The one-day symposium, open to senior human resources and DEI executives and professionals in the broadcast industry, focused on creating dialogue and exchanging ideas among broadcast companies regarding talent management, retention and DEI best practices.

"NABLF's mission is to equip our industry with the best tools to attract, train and retain the innovative and talented broadcasters that will shape our future," said NABLF president and NAB chief diversity officer Michelle Duke. "This forum will help hiring managers and broadcast executives understand the needs of their employees and ensure organizations are well-positioned to meet the challenges of tomorrow."

The symposium kicked off with welcome remarks from NAB chief legal officer Rick Kaplan and Duke, along with Gene Bateman, senior consultant with the forum’s sponsor Kelly Benefits Strategies.

Dr. Ella Washington, organizational psychologist and DEI expert, led a session titled "The Necessary Journey: Making Real Progress on Equity and Inclusion." The session presented and broke down the three Ps of organizations’ DEI objectives and experiences: purpose, pitfalls and progress.

Gallup Center on Black Voices executive director Camille Lloyd hosted a session titled "The Four Basic Needs of Followers," which examined Gallup’s study exploring why people follow leaders and the four dominant themes that emerged from its research strongly linked to engagement.

Dr. Solange Charas, a board director, senior-level HR executive and adjunct professor, led a session titled "What Gets Measured Gets Improved – How to Use DE&I Audits to Improve DE&I Accountability and Company Profitability Performance." The session addressed approaches to understanding and benchmarking organization’s diversity performance to gain insights about accountability and setting appropriate performance goals.

The forum closed with a discussion on best practices and new strategies for success facilitated by Sharon D. Fitzpatrick, CEO of The Fitzpatrick Group.

The forum was sponsored by Kelly Benefits Strategies. 

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) announced the recipients of the 2022 Celebration of Service to America Awards at a gala held on June 7 at The Anthem in Washington, D.C. 

The awards were announced live and presented to recipients in eight categories recognizing local broadcasters’ outstanding service to their communities. The 2022 Celebration of Service to America Award winners were: 

Service to Community Award for Radio, Broadcast Ownership Group

Beasley Media Group, 2021 Beasley Best Community of Caring Initiative

Service to Community Award for Television, Broadcast Ownership Group

Cox Media Group, CMG Gets Real

Service to Community Award for Radio – Large/Major Market

WTLC-FM, Indianapolis, Ind., Urban One, Inc., Feeding Families for 365 Days Plus

Service to Community Award for Television – Large/Major Market

WFAA, Dallas, Texas, TEGNA, WFAA Adoption Awareness

Service to Community Award for Radio – Medium Market

WJBR-FM, Beasley Media Group, Wilmington, Del., Mix 99.5 WJBR Help Our Kids Radiothon

Service to Community Award for Television – Medium Market

WIS-TV, Gray Television, Columbia, S.C., Families Helping Families

Service to Community Award for Radio – Small Market

WNRP-AM, WYCT, WNRP, WEBY Radio, Pensacola, Fla., Next Level Covid Charts

Service to Community Award for Television – Small Market

KOBI-TV, California Oregon Broadcasting, Medford, Ore., In this Together

“Every day, America’s local broadcasters devote their airwaves, resources and manpower to serve the needs of their audiences and provide critical support to our communities,” said NABLF president Michelle Duke. “These awards winners embody the best of broadcasting’s public service and shine a light on how radio and television stations are changing lives for the better. We congratulate all of these fine broadcasters and stations everywhere that are working to improve their local communities.” 

During the gala, former NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith was honored with the Service to America Samaritan Award. The award, which is given to a broadcaster or organization exemplifying the industry’s commitment to using the airwaves efficiently to promote the public interest, was given in recognition of his leadership of community service projects undertaken by NAB during his tenure. 

As NAB president and CEO, Smith spearheaded a number of public service initiatives to help keep America’s local communities safe, informed and connected. In 2013, Sen. Smith oversaw the launch of the OK2Talk campaign, an unprecedented effort to educate millions of Americans on the importance of ending the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Smith also led a nationwide effort by local radio and television stations in 2016 to address heroin and prescription drug abuse that is impacting communities across America. 

In the aftermath of Hurricane Marie in 2017, Smith led a coalition of broadcast ownership groups and organizations to distribute 10,000 battery-operated radios to residents of Puerto Rico impacted by the storm’s damage. In 2020, under Smith’s leadership, NAB created and provided public service announcements to radio and TV stations to educate Americans on how to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. 

As previously announced, renowned chef and humanitarian José Andrés and award-winning entertainer, author and entrepreneur Patti LaBelle received Service to America Leadership Awards, NABLF’s highest individual honor, during the ceremony. GEICO was honored with the Corporate Leadership Award in recognition of its decades of work supporting initiatives and building partnerships within the communities the company serves. 

Actor and television host Mario Lopez emceed the event. Featured celebrity presenters included CBS Sports’ James Brown, a three-time Emmy Award Winner and Hall of Fame Sportscaster; Emmy Award-winning co-anchor of ABC News’ “Nightline” Juju Chang; actor Asher Grodman, star of CBS’ series “Ghosts;” culinary visionary and celebrity lifestyle chef Chef Huda; American rock and soul artist Maggie Rose, who performed the National Anthem; and Angela Yee, co-host of nationally syndicated radio show “The Breakfast Club.” Presenting awards virtually were actress, producer, talk show host and author Drew Barrymore and comedian, actor and television host Drew Carey. 

A special one-hour production of the awards ceremony will air nationally on broadcast stations across the country July 9 - August 13.

More information is available at www.nabfoundation.org. 

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Award-winning entertainer, author and entrepreneur Patti LaBelle will receive the Service to America Leadership Award from the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) during the Celebration of Service to America Awards on June 7 at The Anthem in Washington, D.C. 

LaBelle joins chef and humanitarian José Andrés as a recipient of this year’s Service to America Leadership Award, NABLF’s highest individual citation that is presented in recognition of honorees’ commitment to advocacy and public service.

“Patti LaBelle has entertained countless audiences with her music, on the screen and on the stage,” said NABLF President Michelle Duke. “Her exquisite talents are equaled by her generous heart and decades of support for philanthropic causes. NABLF and America’s broadcasters are excited to celebrate her lifelong commitment to good works and community service.”

LaBelle began her career as the lead singer of Patti LaBelle and the Bluebelles, whose hits include the GRAMMY Hall of Fame inducted song, "Lady Marmalade." After launching a solo career, she achieved success with several best-selling and critically acclaimed albums, and won Best Female R&B Vocal Performance at the 1992 GRAMMY Awards and the GRAMMY Award for Best Traditional R&B Vocal Album in 1999. 

During her career, she has sold more than 50 million records worldwide, received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame and been inducted into the Apollo Theater Legends Hall of Fame and the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

LaBelle's humanitarian work includes advocacy for adoption, foster care, Big Sisters, the United Negro College Fund and many other causes and non-profit initiatives. After losing her mother, three sisters and best friend to cancer and diabetes, LaBelle channeled her personal strife into promoting awareness of these diseases, including becoming a spokesperson for the American Diabetes Association following her diagnosis in 1994.

LaBelle was honored by GLAAD in 2007 with an Excellence in Media Award for her longtime support of gay and lesbian rights and participation in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

In her acting career, LaBelle starred in the NBC television sitcom “Out All Night” and hosted her own lifestyle and cooking shows, “Living It Up with Patti LaBelle” and “Patti LaBelle's Place.” She has starred in a number of popular films and television programs and was a contestant on hit shows “Dancing with the Stars” and “The Masked Singer.” She also starred in Broadway productions of “Your Arms Too Short to Box with God,” “Fela” and “After Midnight.”

In 2007, she introduced Patti’s Good Life, a successful food and lifestyle brand. LaBelle has authored six books and recently released a 20th anniversary edition of her New York Times bestseller, "LaBelle Cuisine: Recipes to Sing About."

Previous recipients of the Service to America Leadership Award include “Hamilton” creator and star Lin-Manuel Miranda, award-winning-artist John Legend, multi-platform country music star Sara Evans and Grammy-winning musician Jon Bon Jovi. Esteemed chef and humanitarian José Andrés will also receive a Service to America Leadership Award at this year’s Celebration of Service to America Awards ceremony.

The Celebration of Service to America Awards will also honor local television and radio stations and broadcast groups across the country for their public service and philanthropic efforts to help their communities throughout the year. NABLF will also honor GEICO with the Corporate Leadership Award in recognition of its decades of work supporting initiatives and building partnerships within the communities the company serves.

A special one-hour production of the awards ceremony will once again be broadcast nationally on television and radio stations and digital platforms in summer 2022 

More information about the awards and event is available at servicetoamericaawards.org.  

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) has announced that it will present esteemed chef and humanitarian José Andrés with the Service to America Leadership Award, the Foundation’s highest individual honor. 

The award, which honors an individual’s commitment to advocacy and public service, will be presented during the Celebration of Service to America Awards on June 7 at The Anthem in Washington, D.C.

Andrés is highly acclaimed globally for his avant-garde cuisine served through his restaurant collective, ThinkFoodGroup. Twice honored in Time Magazine’s “100 Most Influential People” and a New York Times best-selling author, Andrés was awarded by President Barack Obama in 2015 the National Humanities Medal, which honors individuals or groups whose work has deepened the nation's understanding of the humanities. In 2021 Andrés launched José Andrés Media, which will produce unscripted and scripted television series, books, podcasts, and digital content with a focus on stories about the power of food.

Through his non-profit, World Central Kitchen (WCK), Andrés leads humanitarian efforts to feed communities in need and reduce food insecurity during times of crisis. Andrés and his team have served fresh meals to those affected by man-made and natural disasters across six continents, including serving over 3.6 million meals to those affected in Puerto Rico by Hurricane Maria in 2017.

Most recently, WCK partnered with local leaders, farmers and restaurants to help those experiencing food insecurity caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and laying the foundation for smarter national food policy. Andrés and WCK have been on the ground in Ukraine cooking nonstop since late February, where they have served nearly 30 million meals.

Andrés’ groundbreaking work with WCK is the focus of the upcoming documentary film “We Feed People.” Produced by National Geographic and directed by Academy Award-winner Ron Howard, the film will premiere on Disney+ on May 27, 2022.

“José Andrés is a culinary trailblazer, not only in the kitchen but through his dedication to feeding people and communities in need around the world,” said NABLF President Michelle Duke. “When disaster strikes, the World Central Kitchen has stepped in to ensure communities have the strength to rebuild and that no one goes hungry. NABLF is honored to celebrate Andrés’ devotion to combatting food insecurity with the Service to America Leadership Award.”

Previous recipients of the Service to America Leadership Award include “Hamilton” creator and star Lin-Manuel Miranda, award-winning-artist John Legend, multi-platform country music star Sara Evans and Grammy-winning musician Jon Bon Jovi.

Finalists, celebrity guests, senior broadcast executives, members of Congress and policymakers will gather at The Anthem in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, June 7, 2022, for the in-person, black-tie Celebration of Service to America Awards ceremony. Actor and television host Mario Lopez will emcee the event, with awards presented by musical artists, journalists and radio personalities.

A special one-hour production of the awards ceremony will once again be broadcast nationally on television and radio stations and digital platforms in summer 2022.

The Celebration of Service to America Awards will also honor local television and radio stations and broadcast groups across the country for their public service and philanthropic efforts to help their communities throughout the year. NABLF will also honor GEICO with the Corporate Leadership Award in recognition of its decades of work supporting initiatives and building partnerships within the communities the company serves.

For more information about the awards and event, visit servicetoamericaawards.org.

WASHINGTON D.C.—The National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) has announced that renowned actor and television personality Mario Lopez will host the Celebration of Service to America Awards on June 7, 2022, at The Anthem in Washington, D.C. 

The ceremony recognizes local broadcasters’ outstanding service to their communities. The 2022 program will be held in person and professionally produced for airing later on television stations across the country.

Lopez, a two-time Emmy Award winner, New York Times best-selling author, producer and host, will emcee the first in-person Celebration of Service to America Awards since 2019. Lopez is the host of NBC’s “Access Hollywood” and “Access Daily.” He also hosts two national iHeartMedia radio programs and has starred on Broadway in the 2008 revival of "The Chorus Line." 

In 2021, Lopez received the NAB Television Chairman’s Award, which recognizes individuals for significant groundbreaking work in one or more specific art disciplines in television.

Celebrity guests will present awards to station winners that will be announced at the June 7 event. 

Featured celebrity presenters include CBS Sports’ James Brown, a three-time Emmy Award Winner and Hall of Fame Sportscaster; Emmy Award-winning co-anchor of ABC News’ “Nightline” Juju Chang; American rock and soul artist Maggie Rose, who will also perform the National Anthem; and Angela Yee, co-host of nationally syndicated radio show “The Breakfast Club.”

NABLF previously announced station and broadcast group finalists for the awards. A complete list of finalists can be found at nabfoundation.org. 

Earlier this month, NABLF announced GEICO will receive the Corporate Leadership Award during the event. 

A special one-hour production of the awards ceremony will be broadcast nationally on television stations across the country in summer 2022.

For more information about the awards and event, visit servicetoamerica.org.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The NAB Leadership Foundation (NABLF) has announced that it is now accepting applications for the 2023 Technology Apprenticeship Program (TAP). 

Applications for the program, which is designed to train, inform and recruit a diverse workforce that meets the technology and engineering needs of the broadcast community, will be open through June 15. 

The hybrid six-month technical training fellowship provides participants with exposure, skills and connections to build a successful career in broadcasting. Through monthly virtual learning sessions, students gain valuable skills in NextGen TV, radio broadcasting, networking and IT fundamentals, and cloud and infrastructure systems. 

Graduates of the program receive membership and Certified Broadcast Technologist (CBT) certification from the Society of Broadcast Engineers, along with AWS Cloud Practitioner training and certification.

The program concludes with participants attending NAB Show. NABLF recently announced the graduation of the 2022 TAP Class at the 2022 NAB Show, held April 23 to 27 in Las Vegas.

"These talented students are ready to join the broadcasting industry and fill the need for a more technical workforce,” said NAB Foundation president Michelle Duke. “The industry is rapidly changing, and this group is ready to support technical teams within the broadcast industry. We look forward to watching their careers grow."

The 2022 TAP graduates were:

• Ahmed Abdelgalil, Villanova University
• Alex Abiola, Bowie State University
• Sulaiman Bastien, Howard University
• Solie Bates, Bates Technical College
• Katelyn Daugherty, Kent State University
• Jose Holguin, Hillsborough Community College
• Lucretia Lee, Merit America
• Nicole Lun Lopez, NY City College of Technology
• Samantha Martirez, California Baptist University
• Ranye Mclendon, Morgan State University
• Mikaela Mosley, Howard University
• Stephane Nguemengne Sipa, University of the District Of Columbia
• Monica Pena, University of Houston
• Syed Rizvi, DePaul University

The 2022 program sponsors included: Amazon Web Services (AWS), IEEE Broadcast Technology Society, Grabyo, iIHeartMedia, Imagine Communications, Nielsen, Sinclair Broadcast Group and TVNewsCheck.

For more information about the NAB Leadership Foundation or the TAP program, please visit nab foundation.org.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The NAB Leadership Foundation has announced that it is now accepting applications for the 2023 Broadcast Leadership Training (BLT) program through May 31. 

The BLT program is designed to prepare senior-level broadcast executives to advance as group executives or station owners. Women and people of color are encouraged to apply.

Now in its 23rd year, BLT is an executive MBA-style program that teaches the fundamentals of purchasing, owning and operating radio and television stations. As the foremost executive training initiative for the broadcast industry, the 10-month program prepares aspiring broadcast station owners and executives with the working knowledge to further their careers.

The 2023 Broadcast Leadership Training program will consist of weekend sessions held in-person at the NAB Headquarters in Washington, D.C. The starting session will be held in September 2022.

Broadcast professionals from all areas of the industry, including general managers, experienced sales managers and seasoned department heads, as well as regional and corporate executives, are encouraged to apply. Fellowship opportunities are available for women and people of color, the NAB Leadership Foundation (NABLF) said. 

NABLF also announced the 2021 BLT class graduates, who completed the program in November 2021.

"These talented broadcasters join the long list of industry leaders with roots in the BLT program," said NAB Foundation president Michelle Duke. " We look forward to watching their careers grow from this success and witnessing the positive impacts as new and diverse leadership advances our industry."

With this class, more than 350 participants have graduated from the program. The 2021 Broadcast Leadership Training Class graduates are:

• Melissa Begay, Operations Director, Native Public Media
• Robert Brooks, Digital Solutions Specialist, WHUR-FM
• Cathy Cangiano, Senior Vice President and Market Manager, Bonneville - Seattle Media Group
• Thomas Ciprari, Station Manager, KTMF-TV, ABC Fox 23/Cowles Publishing Company
• Leon Clark, Vice President and General Manager, KGTV ABC10 /The E.W. Scripps Company
• Tina Commodore, News Director, WFTV-TV/ Cox Media Group
• Kate Doty, Director of Talent and Team Development, Morgan Murphy Media
• Susie Doucette-Pyle, Vice President and General Sales Manager, KRIV-TV Fox 26, KTXH My20/Fox Television Stations
• Alfredo Duran, President and Founder, Duran Media Management Services
• Blanca Esparza-Pap, Station Manager, Arizona’s Family, 3TV/ CBS 5
• Mariana Ferro, Regional Vice President, Sales Manager – National Sales, Univision Communications
• Andrew Givens, Station Manager and Director of Sales, KMSS-TV, FOX 33/Mission Broadcasting, Inc.
• Ben Hart, President and General Manager, WJCL ABC/Hearst Television
• Charity Holman, Station Manager and General Sales Manager, WVVA-TV/Quincy Media, Inc.
• Andre Holmes, Vice President, Financial Analysis, Gray Television
• Kari Jacobs, President and General Manager, 10 Tampa Bay/TEGNA
• Kim Parker, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Graham Media Group
• Nicole Ovadia, Vice President, Client Success, HOT97, WBLS, WLIB/Emmis Communications

The 2021 and 2022 program sponsors included: Beasley Media Group, Bonneville International Corp. Cox Media Group, Fox Television Stations, Futuri Media, Graham Media Group, Gray Television, Hearst Television, Legend Communications, NAB, The Nielsen Foundation, Meredith Corporation, Morgan, Murphy Media, The E.W. Scripps Company, Quincy Media Inc., TEGNA, Univision Communications, ViacomCBS.

The organization also said that 2022 class is currently underway. They will attend the NAB Show in April and graduate in June. 

For more information about the NAB Leadership Foundation or the BLT program, please visit, nabfoundation.org.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Leadership Foundation elected Tony Coles of Black Information Network and iHeartMedia, Paul J. Curran Jr. of Cox Media Group (CMG) and Melody Smalls of Allen Media Group, Inc. to serve on its Board of Directors.

"We are excited to welcome three outstanding individuals to the NAB Leadership Board and are grateful for our Board’s guidance as we work to develop leaders, advance diversity and highlight the community service initiatives of our industry,” said Darrell Brown, chair of the NAB Leadership Foundation and president of Bonneville International/KSL Broadcast Group.

“We want to thank the new members for their willingness to serve and look forward to their insights as we continue to expand our programs and prepare the next generation of industry leaders,” added Michelle Duke, president of the NAB Leadership Foundation.

Tony Coles, president of Black Information Network (BIN) and iHeartMedia’s division president of Metro Markets, has more than 35 years of experience in the radio industry. He joined iHeartMedia in 2004 and has held various on-air, programming and management positions across the country. Most recently, Coles served as the executive vice president of programming for the company’s West region. In his current role, he oversees profitability for 21 iHeartMedia markets.

Paul J. Curran serves as executive vice president, Television for CMG, overseeing programing, operations and all sales for the company’s 25 full-powered TV stations in key markets across the country. Prior to assuming his current position, Curran served as CMG’s market vice president for Orlando, where he led a converged market of trusted radio and TV brands, including WFTV (ABC) and WRDQ (Ind), News 96.5, K92.3, WMMO, Star 94.5, Power 95.3, 107.3 Solo Exitos, ESPN Orlando, CMG Local Solutions and Cox Events Group.

Melody Smalls serves as executive vice president of global human resources for Allen Media Group. In her role, Smalls oversees global human resources strategy for all divisions, including Allen Media Broadcasting, Entertainment Studios Networks, Local Now and The Weather Channel. Previously, she worked as chief human resources and compliance officer at The Weather Channel television network, where she led human resource strategies and advised on all human capital matters.

The National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the future of broadcasting through leadership, diversity and community service. Learn more at www.nabfoundation.org.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Award-winning artist Lin-Manuel Miranda will receive the 2021 Service to America Leadership Award from the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Leadership Foundation for his advocacy and support for the Latino community and the arts. 

Miranda will receive the honor during the 2021 "Celebration of Service to America Awards," premiering on July 10, 2021. The  Service to America Leadership Award  recognizes individuals and organizations responsible for improving the lives of others through extraordinary public service. It is the Leadership Foundation’s highest individual honor.

Miranda is the creator and original star of Broadway’s Tony-winning “Hamilton” and “In the Heights.” His work has garnered a Pulitzer Prize, three Tony Awards, three Grammy Awards, two Olivier Awards, and an Emmy Award, among others. Miranda is the recipient of the 2015 MacArthur Foundation Award, the 2018 Kennedy Center Honors and the 2019 Portrait of a Nation Prize, the NAB noted. 

“As the creative force behind some of the most successful stage and screen productions in recent memory, Lin-Manuel Miranda has left an indelible mark on our culture,” said NAB president and CEO Gordon Smith. “He has matched his outstanding success with an outspoken advocacy for Puerto Rico and the arts, and a steadfast commitment to helping communities grow, learn and thrive. We are delighted to commemorate his storied accomplishments and dedication to public service with the Service to America Leadership Award.”

Miranda's extensive work in helping Latino communities includes his active partnership with the Hispanic Federation to support relief and recovery efforts in Puerto Rico since Hurricane Maria struck the island in 2017. 

His work with the Hispanic Federation continued through 2020 by launching Raise Up , a digital fundraising campaign to support the Hispanic Federation Emergency Assistance Fund which supports Latino communities throughout the nation. 

The Hispanic Federation Emergency Assistance Fund has donated more than $14 million to 250 community-based organizations focusing on reaching the most impacted and vulnerable communities. It is the most far-reaching Latino Covid-19 emergency relief effort in the country.

Miranda and the Flamboyan Foundation also launched the Flamboyan Arts Fund in 2018, which has raised more than $15 million to support the arts and artisans in Puerto Rico. In 2020, the Flamboyan Arts Fund launched the Arts Innovation and Management (AIM) Puerto Rico program to fund bilingual management training, business consulting and natural disaster response resilience training for arts organizations.

Miranda, in partnership with Jeffrey Seller and the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, created the Hamilton Education Program to empower educators to integrate the arts and creativity in the study of the revolutionary and founding era. Since its inception five years ago, the program has served early 250,000 high school students. It was expanded for use by middle school students as an innovative free online program in 2020.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The NAB Leadership Foundation announced the graduation of the 2020 Broadcast Leadership Training (BLT) class this month following the completion of the executive MBA-style program. The program sessions were altered to an online model and extended due to the pandemic.

The BLT program teaches the fundamentals of purchasing, owning and operating radio and television stations to senior-level broadcast executives, particularly women and people of color, who aspire to advance as group executives or station owners.

“I am thrilled to see this class of talented broadcasters join the ranks of industry leaders who have grown from this program," said NAB Foundation President Michelle Duke. "The tenacity and resolve shown to adapt and continue in the toughest circumstances demonstrates their commitment to excellence and success. We look forward to watching as they achieve new career heights and positively impact the broadcast industry.”

"We are so pleased to have the talented BLT Class of 2020 finally join our graduates. Despite the challenge of the pandemic, many in the class were promoted and one of the graduates was able to buy her first radio station,” said Diane Sutter, BLT program founder and dean, and president, founder and CEO of ShootingStar Broadcasting. “We are immensely proud of how this class rose to the occasion and look forward to watching as they continue to grow their careers.”

With this class, 344 participants have graduated from the program.

This year’s program sponsors include Beasley Broadcast Group, Cox Media Group, Fox TV Stations, Futuri, Graham Media Group, Gray Television, Hearst Television, Legend Communications, Meredith, Morgan Murphy Media, NAB, Nielsen Foundation, Quincy Media, Scripps, TEGNA and Univision Communications.

WASHINGTON—There might not be a cap and gown involved, but 20 students have graduated from the NAB Leadership Foundation’s 2021 Technology Ambassador Program.

The six-month education and training series instructs its participants on the technological advancements that are growing the broadcast media industry. All those that participated received Amazon AWS and SBE certifications and learned from experts on things like NextGen TV, voice demand and radio programming, cloud computing in broadcast and IP networking fundamentals. They also provided insight and participated in focus groups to help develop new engineering and technology education programs.

Here is the full list of graduates from 2021 TAP:

• Rucha Athavale, New Jersey Institute of Technology 
• Asheeta Bothra, University of Virginia 
• Chase Browning, University of Virginia 
• Allison Burns, Appalachian State University 
• Mario Chapa, University of Texas – San Antonio 
• Maria Depasquale, George Washington University 
• Alma Duderija, Loyola University Chicago 
• Rebecca Hamilton, Bates Technical College 
• Roniecia Harris, Arizona State University 
• Krystal Holland, New York University 
• Selah Konur, Omega Studios School of Applied Recording Arts and Sciences 
• Joshua Li, University of California, Los Angeles 
• Maria Marmora, New Jersey Institute of Technology 
• Zachary Neace, Western Kentucky University 
• Wynter Pero, Omega Studios School of Applied Recording Arts and Sciences 
• Angelina Plaza, New Mexico State University 
• Jon Sanelli, Hofstra University 
• Andrew Saturnino, Union County College 
• James Shonubi, Morgan State University 
• Rachel Stapholz, Arizona State University 

“We are excited to present this year’s diverse class to the broadcasting industry,” said NABLF President Michelle Duke. “We are confident that their great talents will continue to bring innovation and new ideas to our industry.”

The next class of the Technology Ambassador Program will begin in October. The program is open to those pursuing a degree or attending technical school focused on a related subject.

For more information, or to apply, visit NABLF’s website. 

WASHINGTON—Seven new members have been elected to the board of directors of the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Leadership Foundation, NAB announced.

The NAB Leadership Foundation works with broadcast leaders and those who wish to be. It offers training programs, career development resources and awards aimed at strengthening the industry by developing the next generation of broadcast leaders, says the foundation’s website. 

The new board members are: Artie Altman, executive vice president of The Katz Television Group, Katz Media Group; Jan Goldstein, Gray Television’s senior vice president of Human Resources; Brian Lawlor, president of Local Media for The E.W. Scripps Company; DeDe Lea, executive vice president of Global Public Policy and Government Relations at ViacomCBS; Wendy McMahon, president of ABC Owned Television Stations Group; Ralph Oakley, president and CEO of Quincy Media Inc.; and Gayle Troberman, the executive vice president and chief marketing officer of iHeartMedia.

More information is available on the NAB Foundation website.

WASHINGTON—While a red carpet won’t by physically present, the NAB Leadership Foundations 2020 Celebration of Service to America Awards will still feature some star-studded names, as Glenn Close and Sharon Stone are among the celebrity guests that will be featured during the virtual event that will air both on local stations and online.

Close and Stone are previous Service to America Leadership Award recipients. They will be joined by other celebrities, including “This Is Us” star Sterling K. Brown, country music star Sara Evans, Pro Football Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez and broadcast and radio host Mario Lopez.

Tamron Hall, award-winning journalist and TV host, will serve as the emcee for the night.

PLUS: NAB Honors SC Johnson With Service Award

The celebrities, along with members of Congress, will reveal the award winners, as well as honoring the role local radio and TV stations serve to their communities. The full list of station finalists is available on nabfounation.org.

The 2020 Celebration of Service to America Awards will take place on Aug. 22.

WASHINGTON—The NAB Leadership Foundation is awarding its 2020 Celebration of Service to America Corporate Leadership Award to SC Johnson.

The annual honor is given to a leading business outside the broadcast industry that exemplifies “an extraordinary focus on community service and corporate social responsibility,” according to NABLF.

SC Johnson is a manufacturer of household cleaning products, products for home storage, air care, pest control and shoe care, as well as professional products. The company has a stated mission to be at work for a better world. It has attempted to do so in part by giving back 5% of its pre-tax profits to charities every year since 1937.

In more recent examples, SC Johnson has been helping to battle COVID-19, committing $15 million to assist families and communities around the world. Specific examples of their efforts include:

• Donating 80,000 SC Johnson product care packages to U.S. health care workers and first respondents; 
• A $1 million donation to the CDC Foundation’s Emergency Response Fund;  
• Providing more than $4 million in financial support and product donations to COVID-19 response efforts in Europe and Latin America;  
• Giving $1 million to Save the Children to educate and enable children worldwide to cope with the current pandemic and respond to future health crises; 
• Donating more than 300,000 bottles of hand sanitizer to health care workers, first responders and frontline workers across the U.S.; and 
• Providing meals, snacks, books to school children and care packages to health care workers and first responders around its home of Racine, Wis. 

SC Johnson also launched a global partnership with Plastic Bank in 2019 to help address the ocean plastic crisis, creating more than 500 plastic collection points across five countries.

“We are thrilled to honor this exemplary company for their dedication, generosity and commitment to serving both local and international communities,” said Michelle Duke, NABLF president and NAB chief diversity officer. “SC Johnson has set a high bar for corporate social responsibility and philanthropy and is a worthy recipient of this prestigious award.”

Fisk Johnson, SC Johnson chairman and CEO, will accept the award and give a message during the televised 2020 Celebration of Service to America Awards program on Aug. 22.

For more information, visit www.nabfoundation.org. 

WASHINGTON—The finalists for the 2020 Service to America Awards have been announced by the NAB Leadership Foundation, which recognize outstanding community service by local broadcasters.

Here is the full list of TV finalists by category:

Service to Community Award for Television—Ownership Group

Service to Community Award for Television—Large Market

Service to Community Award for Television—Medium Market

Service to Community Award for Television—Small Market

The full list of nominees, which includes radio broadcasters, is available here.

One winner from each category will be announced during the Celebration of Service to America Awards, which will be pre-recorded and then made accessible online as well as for broadcast radio and TV stations to air on a specific date in late August. The original celebration was scheduled to take place June 9, but had to be canceled because of COVID-19.

“America’s radio and television stations’ dedication to public service shines brightly in local communities every day, and continually ensures the safety and well-being of viewers and listeners,” said NAB Leadership Foundation President Michelle Duke. “We look forward to celebrating broadcasters who have gone above and beyond to serve communities and families in need, and we are thrilled to honor broadcasters’ service with audiences across the country.”

WASHINGTON—The National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation has announced that its 2020 Celebration of Service to America Award event that was slated for June 9 will transition to a virtual event later in the summer in light of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Leadership Foundation says that because of the social distancing guidelines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as broadcasters being focused on other issues related to the pandemic, “it is impossible to host a celebration during this time.”

The virtual event will still serve as a way to recognize station honorees, partners, political leaders and the entire broadcast industry, highlighting community service efforts in 2019 and the recent efforts of broadcasters related to COVID-19.

“As our world continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, our thoughts are with those who have been directly affected by the virus,” NAB Leadership Foundation President Michelle Duke wrote to the broadcast community. “Our gratitude is with you as you and your team continue to perform the responsibilities, duties and commitment that come with being a broadcaster.”

Additional information regarding the move to a virtual event will be shared in the coming weeks, NAB Leadership Foundation says. No date for the virtual event has been provided at this time.

More information is available at the Celebration of Service to America Awards website. 

WASHINGTON—The NAB Leadership Foundation today announced it has begun accepting entries for the 2020 Celebration of Service to America Awards to recognize outstanding community service by local broadcasters.

Recipients will be honored at a black-tie gala attended by broadcast executives, policymakers and regulators on Tuesday, June 9, at The Anthem in Washington, D.C.

Local radio and television broadcasters from around the United States will be honored for their exceptional commitment to keeping local communities informed, safe and helpful to those in need. During the gala, the dedication of those being honored for their community service will be spotlighted.

Eight Service to Community Awards will be presented, one each for radio and TV broadcasters in four categories, including broadcast groups; large/major market (TV DMAs 1-50 and Radio Markets 1-50); media market (TV DMAs 51-10 and Radio Markets 51-150); and small market (TV DMAs 101-210 and Radio Markets 151-300).

The deadline for entering is Friday, March 6.

Entry rules and other information is available online.

WASHINGTON—The NAB Leadership Foundation launched an online education series for first-time radio and television station managers as they transition from individual contributor to experienced team leader.

The First Time Manager Series uses interactive sessions and offers online resources to help bridge the gaps in management training for new supervisors. It teaches them to communicate, delegate and motivate more effectively.

“The NAB Leadership Foundation noticed a gap in training for new managers and responded by developing this program to provide the tools and resources necessary to help them succeed,” said Michelle Duke, NAB Leadership Foundation president.

The five-part curriculum covers managerial responsibilities through guided role-play, applicable practice exercises and self-audits.