Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr announced Monday that Will Holloway has joined his office as a legal adviser.

Holloway has spent the last seven years with the commission. He most recently served in the same role for fellow Commissioner Olivia Trusty.

“Will began his career at the FCC as an honors attorney, and I look forward to drawing on his counsel on a range of matters,” Carr said Monday in a release.

Allison Howell and Keelin Ferris also serve Carr as legal advisers.

Holloway’s FCC Background
As a legal adviser for Trusty, Holloway led legal and policy analysis on wireless, space, international, engineering and technology and public safety issues, according to the commission’s release.

Prior to that role for Trusty, he served as counsel for the FCC’s Broadband Data Task Force from 2022 to 2025. There, he offered legal and policy support on matters related to the implementation of the Broadband DATA Act and the FCC’s Broadband Data Collection.

Before that, Holloway served in the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau as an attorney adviser focusing on broadband mapping and wireless infrastructure.

Holloway joined the FCC in 2019 as an honors attorney in the Wireless Bureau’s Competition and Infrastructure Policy Division. That same year, he received his J.D. from Catholic University. He earned his undergraduate degree in 2011 from Sewanee: The University of the South.

This article initially appeared in Radio World, sister brand to TV Tech.

NEW YORK—Hearst Television has elevated Kevin Kalia to regional director of engineering effective Jan. 1.

Kalia had been director of engineering at Hearst-owned ABC affiliate WCVB-TV in Boston since 2023 and will remain based at that station.

He’ll share groupwide engineering oversight with Hearst TV’s two other regional directors of engineering, Michael Saffell, based at WMUR-TV Manchester, N.H., and Greg Turner, based at WBAL-TV Baltimore.

“Kevin has demonstrated the leadership and technical judgment needed to guide engineering across our enterprise,” Hearst Senior Vice President, Broadcast Engineering and Technology Stefan Hadl said. “He brings a strong understanding of broadcast operations, a track record of solving complex challenges, and the ability to build trusted, effective teams. His experience as well as his commitment to innovation and reliable, high-quality service make him exceptionally well suited for this role.”

At WCVB, Kalia launched Hearst’s first-ever virtual set, used for news programs “Chronicle” and “On the Record.” He also led the technical teams responsible for the national Boston Marathon telecast coproduced with ESPN, the national Sail Boston telecast and WCVB’s annual holiday specials.

Prior to WCVB, Kalia was director of engineering at WGAL-TV, the Hearst-owned NBC affiliate in Harrisburg, Pa. He led that station through the pandemic and the largest renovation in its history. He also built WGAL’s relationships with the region’s universities and high schools to provide resources to media students, Hearst said, including a grant from the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters to fund new equipment for McCaskey High School that served as a template for other Pennsylvania schools.

Prior to WGAL, he was assistant chief engineeer at WYFF-TV in Greensville-Spartanburg, S.C.; content acquisition and technology manager at WTAE Pittsburgh; and a news producer at WTAJ Altoona, Pa. He is a member of SMPTE, a graduate of Penn State University and a participant in the Hearst Management Insitute.

SAN JOSE, Calif.—Adobe today announced 10 filmmakers will receive a combined $1 million in grants and introduced a new Film & TV Fund Board including several influential entertainment leaders.

The company launched its Adobe Film & TV Fund in 2024. To date, more than 1,000 creators have received support in the form of fellowships, financial support, mentorship and access to its professional creative tools. Adobe has worked with partners, including Gold House, Rideback RISE and Sundance Institute, to assist filmmakers.

Earlier in 2026, Adobe announced a new way for filmmakers to receive funding from the nearly $10 million it has pledged this year. The $1 million in grants for Adobe’s “inaugural cohort” of recipients puts “resources behind filmmakers and their projects at a stage when development funding can determine whether an idea moves toward production,” the company said in its announcement.

Recipients will also have access to Adobe’s professional creative tools, including Premiere and Firefly to assist in their creative process.

The work of the 10 filmmakers receiving the direct grants spans narrative features, documentaries, shorts and student films. Nominations were submitted by industry and community organizations. Adobe chose recipients with input from its fund’s advisory board.

Recipients include:

Narrative Features

• Austin Everett, writer-director. A two-time Black List writer and one of Variety's 10 Screenwriters to Watch, Everett has three features in development with Columbia Pictures, Lionsgate and TriStar. His directorial debut, “Akiya,” is a horror film starring Karen Fukuhara and Robbie Amell about a couple whose new home in rural Japan is haunted by spirits. 
• Lara Everly, director. An award-winning director working across narrative and branded content, Everly brings humor to unexpected stories. Her feature, “Reconstructing Charlie,” adapted from her short film, follows a woman navigating an early breast cancer diagnosis. 

Documentary Features

• Sue Ding, director. A 2026 Creative Capital Awardee whose short documentaries have premiered at SXSW, IDFA and True/False, Ding explores the Asian-American teens who shaped Southern California's 1990s import car culture in “Rice Rocket Revolution.” 
• Molly Gillis, filmmaker. A New York Times video editor whose award-winning shorts have screened at SXSW, Outfest and Palm Springs ShortFest, Gillis follows American comedians performing solo shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in “Fringe.” 

Shorts

• Jasmine J. Johnson, director, writer and producer. Johnson's shorts have screened at SXSW and Tribeca with support from Tribeca, Chanel and The Gotham. Her film “BREAK” follows a young surfer whose painful accident goes viral without her consent. 
• Gabriela Garcia Medina, filmmaker. A two-time Tribeca fellow and alum of the Academy Film Accelerator and Film Independent Directing Lab, Garcia Medina tells the story of an upbeat Uber driver saving to reunite her family in the U.S. in “Cuqui.” 
• Maria Burton, director. Having directed six independent features and recognized as one of Variety's "Talent to Watch," Burton explores the story of Jerrie Cobb, one of the first women tested for spaceflight, in “How High the Moon.” 
• Spencer Jamison, filmmaker. A Film Independent Episodic Lab fellow featured in CAA's showcase of rising Black filmmakers, Jamison explores family and grief in “Numinia,” following a musician who inherits her grandparents' home. 

Student Films

• Djibril Keita, filmmaker. An NYU Tisch graduate film student raised in Mali and the United States, Keita explores identity and technology in “Verified,” following a delivery driver locked out of his work app after an accident changes his face. 
• Olajide “Kay” Hamed, writer, director and producer. An MFA directing candidate at Chapman University's Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, Hamed explores Booker T. Washington's historic 1901 dinner with Theodore Roosevelt in “Dinner at the White House.” 

Adobe’s Film & TV Fund Advisory Board includes:

• Jon Mone, film producer, founder and CEO; former Universal Pictures production executive.
• Kerstin Emhoff, Emmy-winning producer, co-founder and CEO of PRETTYBIRD and Ventureland. 
• Lena Waithe, Emmy-winning writer, producer, actor and founder of Hillman Grad. 
• Phil Sun, founder and CEO of 1v1 Entertainment; co-founder and managing partner, M88. 
• Reggie Hudlin, Oscar-nominated producer, director, president of Hudlin Entertainment; former president of entertainment of BET.
• Sophia Rzankowski, executive, Superconnector Studios. 
• Stacy Smith, founder, USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative; USC professor. 
• Stacy Martinet, Chief Content and Creative Officer, Adobe. 
• Stacey Walker King, Chief Brand Officer, MACRO. 

More information is available on the company’s website and on Adobe’s blog.

NEVADA CITY, Calif.—Joseph Hopkins has joined media workflow and measurement technologies provider Telestream as chief revenue officer.

A media tech executive with 20 years of experience, Hopkins will work with Telestream’s leadership, product and commercial teams to build on its solutions portfolio, deepen strategic partnerships and identify new opportunities, the company said. He is tasked with steering commercial operations as Telestream integrates practical artificial intelligence and automation tools into its workflow and measurement products, it said.

“Joseph brings a unique combination of commercial leadership, entrepreneurial thinking, and a deep understanding of where the media industry is headed,” Telestream CEO Benjamin Desbois said. “Throughout his career, he has helped organizations navigate significant technology transitions, identifying new opportunities and building the teams and strategies needed to capitalize on them. As we continue to evolve Telestream’s business offering and value proposition, Joseph’s experience and perspective will be instrumental in helping us accelerate growth and strengthen our position in the market.”

Hopkins most recently was cofounder of Alchemy Creations, a media technology advisory firm. Before that, he was chief revenue officer at Make.TV, which was acquired by LTN Global and held senior positions at Verizon Digital Media Services. Earlier, he worked at iStreamPlanet on some of the earliest live streams of major sporting events, including the Super Bowl and Olympic Games.

“Our customers, as well as those of our partners and resellers, are looking for ways to operate more efficiently, create better experiences for their audiences, and find new opportunities for growth,” Hopkins said. “Telestream has the technology, expertise, and established presence in critical media workflows to help them do that. I'm excited to work with the team to deepen our customer relationships, better understand their evolving priorities, and help them achieve their business goals.”

ATLANTA—Gray Media has named Jamie Eskridge as general manager of WLFI, the station group’s CBS affiliate in Lafayette, Ind.

The Indiana native had been serving as the station’s interim general manager since the end of last year. Prior to that, she was a member of Allen Media Group’s corporate digital team, driving digital sales strategies and growth initiatives across the 22 television stations then owned by Byron Allen’s company. Gray acquired WLFI from AMG earlier this year.

She first joined WLFI in 2015 as digital sales manager, advancing to sales manager in 2016.

Eskridge is a native of LaPorte, Ind., and a graduate of Indiana University. She serves on the Greater Lafayette Salvation Army Advisory Board.

BOISE, Idaho—Sinclair has elevated Jennifer Lopez as vice president and general manager of KBOI, KYUU and KNIN here.

It’s a return to Idaho for the 15-year Sinclair veteran, who had been general sales manager of KOMO-KUNS in Seattle since 2023. In her new role, she’ll oversee station operations, strategic planning, sales and community engagement efforts across the three-station cluster, Sinclair said.

“Jennifer is a proven leader with a strong track record of driving results, building relationships and developing successful teams,” said Sinclair Chief Operating Officer and President of Local Media Rob Weisbord said. “Jennifer knows these stations, understands the community, and brings leadership and vision to build on their success. We are excited to welcome her back to Boise.”

Lopez started with Sinclair in 2011 as an account executive at KXRM Colorado Springs, Colo. She moved to KBOI-KYUU in 2011 as senior account executive, advancing to digital sales manager of the stations in 2017. She then joined the Seattle stations in 2023.

“Boise has always been a special place for me, both personally and professionally, and I'm excited to return in this new role,” Lopez said. “Having spent nearly a decade with these stations earlier in my career, I know firsthand the talent and dedication of the people who work here. I look forward to reconnecting with the team, strengthening our relationships in the community and building on the stations' success.”

DENVER – Syndeo Institute at The Cable Center has announced six new inductees to the Cable Hall of Fame.

The institute will celebrate the 30^th anniversary of the Cable Hall of Fame on Thursday, April 15, 2027, at a red-carpet event at New York City’s Ziegfeld Ballroom.

The 2027 honorees, representing some of the most influential visionaries in connectivity, content and media include:

• Lynn R. Charytan, Executive Vice President and General Counsel, Connectivity & Platforms and Executive Vice President & Senior Deputy General Counsel, Comcast Corporation
• Dallas Clement, President and Chief Operating Officer, Cox Enterprises, Inc.
• Michael LaJoie, Former Executive Vice President and Chief Technology and Network Connection Officer of Time Warner Cable; Co-Owner Jinsei 2.0
• Toni Murphy, Executive Vice President Operations, Mediacom Communications
• Mary E. Meduski, President and Chief Financial Officer, Tierpoint and Cequel III
• Edward (Ed) S. Rogers III, Executive Chairman, Rogers Communications

Since 1998, 179 luminaries have been inducted into the Cable Hall of Fame.

“For three decades, the Cable Hall of Fame has recognized the leaders whose innovation and contributions have helped define our industry,” said Michael Willner, chairman of Syndeo Institute at The Cable Center’s Board of Directors. “Our 2027 honorees have each made a lasting mark on the industry, and we are proud to recognize their accomplishments as we celebrate this milestone anniversary.”

“Celebrating 30 years of the Cable Hall of Fame gives us a chance to honor where our industry has been while looking ahead to where it is going,” said Diane Christman, president and chief executive officer, Syndeo Institute at The Cable Center. “Our celebration in April will be especially meaningful as we honor six remarkable individuals whose careers and contributions reflect the very best of our industry.”

NEW YORK—Less than six months after launching its needs-based College Scholarship Program, the Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) is opening the program to more college students pursuing careers in broadcasting, regardless of whether they come from a broadcasting family. The change opens the door to more aspiring radio and television professionals and reinforces the BFOA’s commitment to cultivating the next generation of industry talent.

The revised eligibility requirements broaden access to the program, opening it to a wider pool of aspiring broadcasters who meet the academic and financial criteria, regardless of their family’s connection to the industry. In addition to the original $10,000 scholarship for a qualifying student from a broadcast family, the BFOA will award six new scholarships of $2,500 each annually, bringing the total to seven scholarships and $25,000 in annual awards.

“The future of broadcasting depends on attracting talented, creative people with fresh ideas and a passion for our industry. We want to make sure that financial circumstances or family background don’t stand in the way of a promising student pursuing a career in radio or television. By broadening our scholarship program, we’re opening the door to more members of the next generation of broadcasters and investing in the future of our industry,” said Tim McCarthy, President of the Broadcasters Foundation of America.

“For decades, the Broadcasters Foundation has been committed to helping members of our industry through life’s most difficult challenges. Supporting the next generation of broadcasters is a natural outgrowth of that commitment. By investing in students pursuing careers in radio and television, we’re helping build a stronger future for our industry while ensuring that talented individuals have the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their family background,” said Scott Herman, Chair of the Broadcasters Foundation of America.

Candidates can apply in early Spring of 2027.

EMERYVILLE, Calif.—Systems integrator Advanced Systems Group has hired Bob Daniel as a storage and workflow solutions architect on its Enterprise Storage team.

Daniels brings 30 years of experience in architecting and implementing large, complex storage systems for media and entertainment clients as well as enterprise applications. In his new role, he’ll design customized technical solutions for client based on performance, reliability and budget requirements for both traditional and AI environments, ASG said.

He brings decades of experience with major studios, postproduction facilities and enterprise organizations, ASG said.

“Bob has deep expertise in data storage and management,” ASG President Dave Van Hoy said. “He knows what is at stake when a customer’s storage is not optimized properly for the work at hand. He’s helped customers make those critical decisions for decades, and he’s well acquainted with our team from collaborating with us on previous projects.

“Bob is a master at connecting a client’s business goals with a practical design, and now he’ll have our team supporting him on implementation every step of the way,” he added.

Daniel joins ASG after a long career in senior roles with NetApp and LSI. He has designed storage solutions for many major Los Angeles studios and postproduction houses, ASG said, as well as law firms, casinos and other large enterprises outside of media and entertainment.

“I've been helping customers find the right solution for over 30 years, so it's exciting to discover the latest in areas like media supply chain and networking,” Daniel said.

He will be based in Southern California and can be reached via email.

McLEAN, Va.—Tegna has tapped Brian Gregory as president and general manager of two North Carolina stations, WCNC Charlotte and WFMY Greensboro.

He’ll oversee station operations, financial performance, content, sales, digital and streaming initiatives and community engagement at both WCNC, an NBC affiliate, and WFMY, a CBS station. In his new role, he succeeds Joan Barrett, who was promoted to group general manager for Tegna’s Northeast and Southeast regions.

“As we strengthen leadership across TEGNA, we’re looking for people who develop talent and deliver results. Brian does both,” Barrett said. “WCNC and WFMY are in good hands, and I’m looking forward to what these teams accomplish under Brian’s direction.”

Gregory most recently was with WVEC, the Tegna-owned ABC affiliate in Norfolk, Va.

“WCNC and WFMY have talented teams doing strong work,” Gregory said. “I plan to build on that success to find new ways to reach and serve our audiences.”

Prior to joining WVEC, Gregory was news director of KDVR and KWGN in Denver for six years. Before that, he held leadership positions at KWCH Wichita, Kan.; KOVR Sacramento, Calif.; and WVLT in Knoxville, Tenn.

Barrett’s appointment is one of a series of leadership appointments made by new Tegna CEO Patrick Paolini, who was appointed following Nexstar Media Group’s March acquisition of Tegna.

On April 17, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California on April 17 issued a “Hold Separate Order” delaying the integration of the two companies as antitrust challenges work their way through the courts.

NEW YORK—Hearst Television vice president, sales Gerry McGavick will retire from the station group at year-end, the company said, capping off a 40-year advertising and broadcasting career.

McGavrick had led revenue-generation efforts across Hearst Television platforms since 2021, serving as its primary liaison with agencies, rep firms and other sales partners. He also supervised the group’s political ad-sales efforts since 2017, applying expertise gained over two decades at WMUR-TV, the Hearst-owned ABC affiliate in the key political market of Manchester, N.H.

“Gerry holds a breadth of relationships and a depth of knowledge within the local television sales community which is unrivaled,” Hearst Television President Michael J. Hayes said. “His political advertising acumen coupled with his warmth and ability to connect with people has grown our relationships with advertisers and agencies.”

In addition to revenue generation oversight, McGavick ran Hearst’s Sales Account Associate Program. The yearlong program puts trainees with local ad-sales teams in each Hearst market to develop new sales account executives.

Prior to joining the corporate team, McGavick was director of sales at WMUR. He began as a media planner at ad agency Jordan McGrath Case & Taylor, then joined New York-based rep firm Harrington Righter & Parsons. Later on, he was general sales manager at WLVI-TV Boston before joining WMUR.

A second-generation sales executive, his father was general sales manager and director of sales at Hearst-owned WCVB-TV Boston from 1972 to 1984.

“Working at Hearst Television has been the pinnacle of my career and I sincerely thank senior leadership for creating a culture and environment where I have been able to thrive,” McGavick said. “While I am excited about my future, I will miss regularly seeing the great friends I’ve made and being a part of this outstanding company.”

McGavick is a member of the International Radio and Television Society (IRTS) and has served on the boards of the New Hampshire Association of Broadcasters, the Nielsen Local Alliance and Drug-Free New Hampshire. He graduated from Stonehill College, where he was underwriting director for the campus radio station and played on the football team. He graduated from the Hearst Management Institute.

McLEAN, Va.—Tegna has hired veteran station executive Mellynda Hartel to lead its operations in Florida as president and general manager of WLTV-WJXX Jacksonville and WTSP Tampa.

The 30-year industry veteran comes from Fox Television Stations, where she was senior vice president and general manager of KTVU San Francisco and KICU San Jose, Calif. (branded on-air as Fox 2 Plus).

Prior to leading Fox’s Bay Area stations, she held executive and sales leadership positions at stations in San Francisco, Phoenix, Boston and Washington.

“Mellynda is a highly respected leader in our industry, known for her strategic vision, ability to develop strong teams and track record of driving growth and innovation,” said Joan Barrett, group general manager for Tegna’s Northeast and Southeast regions. “She brings a combination of experience, creativity and a passion for local media that will help us strengthen our connection with Florida communities, grow audiences and create new opportunities for our advertising partners.”

WLTV, Jacksonville’s NBC affiliate, and WJXX, the CBS station in that market, operate under the First Coast News brand. WTSP, the CBS affiliate in Tampa, is branded on-air as 10 Tampa Bay.

“First Coast News and WTSP are among Tegna’s strongest stations, with newsrooms that have earned the trust of their communities,” Hartel said. “I’m eager to help them build on that legacy by creating new opportunities for our viewers to access trusted content and new solutions for our business partners.”

Hartel, a graduate of Bryant University, resides in St. Petersburg, Fla.

ATLANTA—Gray Media has tapped Jennifer Rieffer as general manager of WBTV Charlotte, N.C., the station group’s CBS affiliate in the No. 21 U.S. DMA.

Rieffer had been vice president and general manager of WXIX Cincinnati, the market’s Gray-owned Fox affiliate, which she joined in 2021. During her tenure there, the station became the flagship station of the Cincinnati Bengals and the over-the-air TV partner of the Cincinnati Reds.

Rieffer began her broadcast career in Lexington, Ky., spending 24 years at Fox affiliate WDKY. She then became general manager of Sinclair-owned Fox station WSMH in Flint, Mich., and also oversaw Sinclair’s joint sales agreements with Flint’s NBC affiliate, WEYI, and The CW affiliate, WBSF. She graduated from Morehead State University.

Atlanta-based Gray Media owns 117 TV stations in 78 U.S. television markets.

NEW YORK—NAB announced yesterday that SMPTE will be moving its annual SMPTE Summit to NAB Show New York starting in 2027. The two events, which are held in October and November—and on opposite coasts, respectively—will now take place in Manhattan.

The SMPTE Summit will take place Sept. 28-30, with the NAB Show New York occurring Sept. 29-30. The SMPTE Summit has traditionally been held over four days with the 2026 SMPTE Summit taking place Nov. 16-19 in Pasadena; the 2027 event is being cut back one day. Both will take place at the Javits Center.

This marks the first time SMPTE has held its summit on the east coast since 2005.

“We’re excited to bring the SMPTE Summit back to New York alongside NAB Show,” said Sally-Ann D’Amato, Executive Director of SMPTE. “This is a natural fit for our organizations and a tremendous opportunity for the industry. Together, we can connect the people developing the standards and technologies of tomorrow with those putting them to work today.”

SMPTE has been a regular participant at NAB Show New York, holding its SMPTE Bootcamp: Precision Timing for ST 2110 event during both days of this year's gathering.

The announcement was made at the conclusion of NAB Show New York, which ended Thursday at the Javits Center. The show featured two days of sessions and exhibit floor demos focused on media and entertainment transformation, the impact of artificial intelligence on production costs and the changing economics and opportunities of live sports.

NAB reported estimated attendance of around 6,700 attendees. A spokesman said that the show organizers have shifted from emphasizing registrations, as in the past, to verified attendance, calling it a more meaningful measure of actual participation. “Our preliminary count of 6,765 verified attendees—people who actually picked up a badge in person—is close to par with 2025,” the spokesman said.

About 57% attended for the first time, with participants from 72 countries. Some 250 exhibitors and sponsors showcased the latest tools and technologies driving the media and entertainment industry forward.

Educational programming included 101 sessions with 156 speakers.

“From new business models to next-gen tools, industry leaders shared how they’re using emerging technology to move their businesses forward.” said Karen Chupka, executive vice president, Global Connections and Events at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB). “That’s part of the value of bringing the people into the same room who finance content, produce it and develop the technology. They don’t all approach these questions in the same way.”

Innovation was on full display across the show floor, where advances in AI, streaming and production technology sparked lively discussions and hands-on exploration. The energy reflected an industry eager to embrace new possibilities and turn emerging technologies into creative and business opportunities.

Who Owns the Content — and Who Profits?
During “The Great Media Reshuffling,” moderated by CNBC’s Alex Sherman, Apollo Global Management partner Aaron Sobel predicted that AI could significantly improve the economics of filmmaking.

“If you think about the cost that can come out of the system, AI can reduce a budget for a movie 5, 10, 15, 20% — not today, in a few years,” Sobel said. “It’s going to make movies much more profitable and make them faster, and it’s going to allow you to test them and develop them faster.”

Thursday’s creator-focused sessions, “From Following to Franchise” and “When Everyone Can Create, What Wins?,” explored how creators can build sustainable businesses and distinguish their content as production tools become more accessible. During the former, Christine Cotter, managing director and head of social innovation at 360i/dentsu, urged advertisers to treat influencers as creative partners.

“Influencers are brands. They’re not just people that you brief. They’re not a vendor. They’re not a tactic,” she said.

What Sports Are Worth — to Networks and Fans
Sports commentator Clay Travis urged broadcasters to experiment with new approaches to building audiences rather than expecting immediate results during “Game On: The Power of Sports on Broadcast.”

“I think you have to be experimental. I’m a data guy, but I’ll try a lot of things,” Travis told NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt. “Scale comes with time, but it also comes with experiment.”

LeGeyt emphasized that major sports rights also help local broadcasters finance news and other community programming.

New York Islanders co-owner Jon Ledecky, speaking with Stathletes co-founder Meghan Chayka, discussed efforts to attract new audiences and promote individual NHL players. He cited an unexpected source of growing interest in hockey.

“‘Heated Rivalry’ has increased across the [National Hockey League] women’s attendance at hockey games 45 percent,” Ledecky said, referring to the popular TV drama.

When New Technology Meets Live Production
Maria Stefanopoulos of ABC News’ “Good Morning America” emphasized that even as technology advances, experienced producers must still be able to improvise when things go wrong during live broadcasts.

“A plan on paper means nothing when it’s 6:58 and the plan doesn’t work,” Stefanopoulos said.

At “Leading Without Boundaries,” Sandi Stambaugh, senior vice president of revenue operations at TD SYNNEX, stressed that organizations must address inefficient processes before implementing AI, warning that technology alone cannot solve underlying operational problem

NEW YORK—Hearst Television said Stanley Herriott, the station group’s vice president of finance, will retire at year-end after eight years on the job.

Herriot, who joined Hearst TV in 2019, led financial planning and analysis and managed the group’s regional finance, corporate finance, billing and recievables and credit and collections teams. The company owns and/or operates 35 TV stations and two radio stations in 27 markets in 39 states, reaching more than 22 million U.S. TV homes.

“Stan has played an integral role in the successful alignment of finance with operations in support and advancement of our business,” Hearst Television Chief Financial Officer John Drain said. “He has brought broad industry knowledge and steady counsel to this work and has been a valued partner to me and to our stations. I am grateful to Stan for his leadership, counsel, partnership, and his many contributions to Hearst Television.”

Prior to Hearst, Herriott was with Spanish-language media company Univision Communications for 14 years in finance, shared services and internal audit leadership roles. Before that, he was an audit manager for Arthur Andersen.

“Stan has brought his authentic self to his role with us,” Hearst Television President Michael J. Hayes said. “He’s a good broadcaster, and a good person. In addition to his financial acumen, he has helped us build our team and attracted next-generation talent to our organization.”

Herriott is a director of the Media Financial Management Association and executive sponsor of Hearst Television employee resource group Umoja. A certified public accountant, he graduated from Montclair State University in New Jersey and the Hearst Management Institute, Hearst’s executive leadership program.

“It has been a privilege to conclude my media career with Hearst Television, the premier local broadcast company with the most talented media professionals in the business,” Herriott said.

NEW YORK—Local TV advertising platform Locality has tapped Saul Stetson as head of product.

A 20-year industry veteran with experience across ad technology, data and identity, he was most recently head of product for Commerce Grid, Criteo’s supply-side platform, where he led product strategy for programmatic supply access, audience-driven inventory packaging and monetization.

He’ll oversee product strategy and development across Locality’s broadcast and streaming portfolio, the company said.

“Saul brings deep experience building products across identity, data and advertising technology, and he'll play an important role in making those capabilities even more accessible and valuable to advertisers,” said Locality CEO Michael Collins, to whom Stetson will report.

Prior to Criteo, Stetson led product for Tapad’s identity platform (now part of Experian), developing solutions to connect audiences across devices and media environments.

Locality operates in all 210 U.S. designated market areas (DMAs), combining its proprietary Audience Engine data platform with identity capabilities, direct access to premium broadcast and streaming TV inventory and hands-on expertise in local campaign execution, the company said.

“The biggest opportunity in local TV is making audience data easier for advertisers to act on,” Stetson said. “Locality has the technology, media relationships and market expertise to make that possible, and I’m excited to build products that take advertisers from understanding their audiences to reaching them.”

IBC has issued a call for submissions to its Accelerator Media Innovation Programme for the 2027 show.

The program connects media and entertainment Champions (buyers of technology), including broadcasters, studios, streaming platforms, content owners and rightsholders, with tech Participants, including established industry vendors, start-ups and academic partners, to accelerate innovation and generate valuable insights.

Organizations from across the global media and entertainment industry are now invited to propose projects that address real-world business and technology needs.

“Each year, the Accelerator Program demonstrates what can be achieved when organizations work together to tackle challenges that matter to the industry,” said Mark Smith, lead, IBC Accelerator Media Innovation Programme. “We’re looking for fresh ideas that push the boundaries of innovation and have the potential to deliver real industry impact. This year, we’re evolving our approach at the outset of the process to help project teams hit the ground running.”

The new approach will see IBC choose nine Accelerator projects that will be showcased at the annual Kickstart Day on Thursday, March 18 at the BBC Radio Theatre in London.

The deadline for submissions is Friday, Dec. 11. Details on the process, submission guidelines and entry form are available at https://show.ibc.org/2027-accelerator-innovation-programme.

Projects at IBC2026 showcased areas including agentic AI and intelligent production workflows, next-generation streaming and connectivity, immersive live experiences, content accessibility, and new approaches to media infrastructure and interoperability.

“The Accelerator program is so unique and such a great place to drive new ideas and concepts to see if they have potential in the real world of production,” said Tim Guilder, head of production technology, ITV Studios. “It’s an opportunity outside of ‘business as usual’ to accelerate conversations among industry peers and vendors that drive radical new use cases and architectures and put them to the test in the field in a really creative, collaborative environment.”

“Google’s partnership with the Accelerator programme provides a unique year-round framework for collaborative innovation,” added Anshul Kapoor, director of global media and entertainment for Google Cloud. “The program is critical for driving digital and AI transformation within the media & entertainment ecosystem by bringing together multi organization project-based approach. For Google it allows us to work directly with major broadcasters and media companies to address complex industry challenges, from experimental pilots to production scale execution.”

NEW YORK—The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) is expanding its charitable assistance to help more radio and television professionals facing financial hardship.

The Foundation has introduced Hardship Grants for broadcasters on unpaid or reduced-pay leave and those confronting extraordinary expenses related to family care, housing emergencies, relocation, or theft.

The new grant program was unanimously approved by the BFOA Board of Directors at its most recent meeting and is already accepting applications from those in need of assistance.

“This expands our ability to reach broadcasters who are struggling to meet their expenses because of extraordinary circumstances,” said Scott Herman, Chair of the Broadcasters Foundation of America. “I was delighted that the Board unanimously approved this initiative. We are up and running and ready to help more members of our broadcasting community when they need it most.”

Hardship Grants represent the third category of assistance offered by the BFOA, which has supported broadcasters facing financial distress for decades. The BFOA also provides Monthly Grants to broadcasters dealing with prolonged illnesses and Emergency Grants to those affected by disasters, including floods and hurricanes.

“Our mission is to help broadcasters in need, and that commitment continues to guide everything we do,” said Tim McCarthy, President of the Broadcasters Foundation of America. “By expanding our grant programs, we can respond to a broader range of circumstances and provide critical assistance to more people in our industry when they need a helping hand.”

For more information, radio and television professionals who currently or previously worked in broadcasting may visit www.broadcastersfoundation.org, or contact 212-373-8250 or info@thebfoa.org.

DALLAS—Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio (NIW) and the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) are reminding women pursuing broadcast technical careers that applications for the 2026 LAUNCH Mentorship Program close on Friday, Oct. 30.

Established in 2023, LAUNCH pairs a rising woman professional with an experienced engineering leader for one-on-one mentorship, technical guidance and professional development. It offers exposure to key areas of broadcast technology, such as Federal Communications Commission compliance, RF systems, automation, IP-based broadcast systems, streaming and digital audio.

To apply for the program, click here.

This year, eligibility for the program was expanded to include women who work for broadcast technology partners and vendors. The yearlong program is sponsored by radio software and workflow-automation company Mr. Master.

LAUNCH is designed to help women strengthen their skills, build professional relationships and prepare for future leadership opportunities as they pursue technical certification, advance their engineering careers or expand opportunities in broadcast operations, MIW and NABLF said. Selected mentees will also be able to attend the 2027 NAB Show in Las Vegas.

For more information, visit the MIW website.

MELBOURNE, Fla.—USSI Global, a broadcast systems integrator, has elevated Ted Corte to chief technology officer.

Korte has been with USSI Global since 2021, most recently running its engineering organization as vice president of engineering and technology. He joined the company as vice president of program management and Innovation Lab, where he managed broadcast infrastructure initiatives related to the first Federal Communications Commission C-band transition.

In his new role, Korte will oversee new technology, engineering and technical management teams across the USSI business, advancing the company’s system-level engineering capabilities, evaluating emerging technologies and developing solutions that address evolving customer requirements across all three business units, the company said.

“Ted has played an instrumental role in transforming how USSI Global approaches technology, engineering and customer engagement,” said USSI President and CEO Anthony Morelli, to whom Korte will report. “He has helped us move beyond simply implementing systems to becoming a trusted technical adviser that customers and technology partners turn to for answers, ideas and innovative solutions. His promotion to CTO recognizes the leadership he has already demonstrated while positioning us to expand those capabilities across every part of our business.”

In his prior role, Korte led the development of USSI Global's Media Transport Solutions Lab, a vendor-agnostic testing and engineering environment that helps broadcasters and media organizations evaluate emerging distribution technologies and architectures. The lab allows USSI customers to assess the performance, resiliency and operational requirements of satellite, terrestrial IP, cloud and alternative connectivity solutions before committing to large-scale deployments, USSI said.

He has also played a key role in the company’s initiatives to help its customers navigate the C-band transition, USSI Global said.

Korte has been a leading technical voice in USSI Global’s C-band initiatives, it said, helping customers navigate the first transition while positioning the company to support complex hybrid and next-gen transport architectures.

“We have built an environment where we can experiment with new technologies, understand how different systems work together and translate those discoveries into practical solutions,” Korte said. “The Media Transport Solutions Lab is a great example of that philosophy. It has helped us establish credibility as a technical partner while opening doors to new customer relationships and business opportunities.”

Korte said he hopes to extend that approach across USSI Global's broader service portfolio, including digital signage, retail technology and electronics repair.

Prior to USSI Global, Korte spent nearly 22 years with Harris Corp. in engineering leadership roles across broadcast automation, servers and transmission equipment. Later on, he was chief operating officer and chief technology officer of Qligent, a provider of broadcast and OTT monitoring and analytics solutions. Immediately prior to USSI, he returned to L3Harris to work on research and development initiatives involving satellite technologies, low-Earth-orbit ground stations and global networking systems.

Korte will share his satellite expertise tomorrow on a NAB Show New York panel titled “Broadcasters’ Road to C-Band Replacement.” For information on that panel session, click here.

NEW YORK—Station group Hearst Television has hired Chris Plourde as vice president, strategy and distribution.

Plourde comes to Hearst after 20 years at Tegna, most recently as vice president, financial planning and analysis. He will report to John Robertson, senior vice president of strategy and distribution, assisting him in areas including strategic partnerships in distribution and technology, Hearst said.

“Finding a leader with Chris’s depth of experience is a rare and exceptional opportunity,” Hearst Television President Michael J. Hayes said. “His arrival further strengthens what is, without question, the finest strategy and distribution team in the local television business, and positions us to lead Hearst Television boldly into its next generation.”

While with Tegna, Plourde specialized in distribution strategy, corporate development, financial planning and complex commercial negotiations including the successful completion of many distribution agreements, Hearst said. His work has included constructing financial models supporting distribution revenue, negotiation strategy and new business ventures, according to the company. He has also led financial strategy and analysis supporting network affiliation negotiations and strategic partnerships, among other activities, Hearst said.

“Chris brings an extraordinarily distinctive and wide-ranging breadth of experience, and we are fortunate to welcome him to the team,” Robertson said. “His insight and perspective will be invaluable as we continue to build on our momentum and he will be instrumental in helping drive our relationships with networks and MVPDs, including our advanced advertising partnerships.”

A graduate of Northeastern University who earned his MBA at George Mason University, Plourde joined Tegna in 2006.

LAS VEGAS—PSSI Global Services, which provides transmission services for live events, has promoted Tracy Michaels to vice president of engineering.

Michaels, a 20-year PSSI veteran, will continue to represent the company in the field at high-profile events but will dedicate much of his time to designing major infrastructure upgrades across its SNG fleet and at PSSI International Teleport. He’ll also work closely to integrate on-site networking services from the recently acquired Beagle Networks into PSSI’s suite of transmission and managed service offerings.

He’ll also lead PSSI’s push into SMPTE 2110 transmission, with the design and launch of a new dual-antenna, IP-centric transmission vehicle in the first quarter of next year, the company said.

“We are quite excited to elevate Tracy into this role as we work closely with our customers to navigate a sea change in broadcast signal delivery,” PSSI CEO Derek Blount said. “The breadth and depth of his experience in the field, his commitment to learning and his unwavering work ethic have earned Tracy the respect of his colleagues throughout the industry. But what we’re most excited about is Tracy’s ability to anticipate the needs of our customers as we develop and implement unique technology solutions to unique transmission scenarios.”

Michaels will report to PSSI executive vice president and chief technology officer Brian Nelles.

“My work is cut out for me in this new role,” Michaels said. “The live event industry is undergoing a transformative period in how solutions are delivered, and I want to ensure we are prepared to support our customers at the highest level. We want to lead the way while also listening, understanding and responding to the complexities of live contribution and distribution.”

Nelles noted that PSSI is known for its expertise in Appear technology, with both executives recently representing the company at an Appear-hosted panel in Norway.

“PSSI is recognized as the foremost field expert in Appear technology, and Tracy has spearheaded this work as an Appear ‘power user,’” Nelles said. “His innate ability to develop and execute robust engineering solutions in volatile live scenarios makes him a valuable leader in PSSI’s efforts to level up our entire team's technical know-how and remain at the cutting edge of the live event industry.”

STOCKHOLM, Sweden—Media technology firm Net Insight has named Mario von Dahn to its executive management team as chief financial officer.

Von Dahn replaces outgoing CFO Cecilia Höjgård Höök, who will leave the company at year-end, and will take his new post no later than April 19, 2027, Net Insight said. Christine Kjellvard will serve as interim CFO until von Dahn officially joins the company, it said.

Von Dahn brings broad executive finance experience across publicly listed and privately held tech companies, most recently as CFO of Eniro Group and Accedo Group.

“His solid financial experience from international tech companies will be a great asset to Net Insight,” CEO Andreas Eriksson said.

Von Dahn said he looks forward to working with Net Insight’s leadership team to “build on the company’s strong foundation and contribute to its continued growth and success.”

Netflix on Thursday announced the departure of Bela Bajaria, its chief content officer of nearly 10 years. Replacing her is Peter Rice, the former chairman of Walt Disney Television, who will start on Oct. 26.

The announcement comes a day after the streaming giant said it was laying off approximately 1,000 employees, representing about 6% of its workforce. The attrition, which mainly affects product, technology, legal and HR teams, was announced in an internal email by Netflix co-CEOs Ted Sarandos and Greg Peters. Netflix had about 15,000 employees at the end of 2025.

Netflix stock has fallen about 25% in 2026—and despite adding new features such as gaming and short-form video—is facing increasing competition from the likes of YouTube and TikTok. Several weeks ago, Sarandos told an industry gathering that the company was “not growing as fast as I want.”

Commenting on Bajaria’s departure, Sarandos thanked her “for a decade of dedication, innovation, creativity and leadership.”

“She led enormous changes at Netflix. She helped broaden our content offering to include the large-scale expansion of unscripted programming and the launches of live events and sports, in addition to crafting and running a world-class, global slate of films and series,” he said. “I’m incredibly grateful for everything she’s done to help Netflix entertain the world.”

As chief content officer, Rice will lead Netflix’s global content organisation, overseeing scripted and unscripted series, film, live events and more across all regions, according to Sarandos.

“Peter is one of the most effective at-scale operators in the entertainment industry. His business acumen is sharp, his talent relationships are exceptionally strong, and his experience across TV and film is deep and broad,” he continued. “He understands what makes stories resonate, and he’s spent his career helping talent do the best work of their lives. I’m excited to welcome him to Netflix as chief content officer as we continue to scale and deliver members more of the stories they love.”

Said Rice: “Netflix has fundamentally changed the way stories are made, shared and experienced around the world. They’ve shown again and again that they’re willing to take chances on distinctive voices and fresh ideas, and I’m excited to work with the team to help bring even more great stories to members everywhere. I’m grateful to Bela for building such a remarkable global team, and I look forward to building on everything she and the team have created.”

Rice was most recently chairman of Walt Disney Television and Chairman of General Entertainment for The Walt Disney Company. There, he oversaw ABC, Fox Broadcasting, Fox Sports, ABC News, ABC Studios, Disney Channel, Freeform, FX Networks, Hulu, National Geographic, Onyx Collective, Disney Television and Twentieth Century Fox Television. He also chaired the boards of A&E Networks and National Geographic Partners. Earlier, Rice was president of 21st Century Fox and CEO of Fox Networks Group, and Fox’s lead executive on the Hulu board. Before that, he was president of Fox Searchlight Pictures.

Rick Kaplan, a key figure at the National Association of Broadcasters for the past 14 years, will leave NAB at the end of the year.

For the last five years he has been NAB’s chief legal officer and executive vice president for legal and regulatory affairs, putting him at the elbow of President/CEO Curtis LeGeyt through some of NAB’s biggest issues.

The association also announced that in January it will bring its government relations and legal teams together under Shawn Donilon, who will be chief advocacy officer. LeGeyt called Donilon “a trusted leader and a skilled strategist.”

NAB said this structure will strengthen coordination between its advocacy on Capitol Hill, its interactions with the administration and its work with the Federal Communications Commission.

Legal Wins
NAB had high praise for Rick Kaplan. LeGeyt cited his ability to build consensus and his “tireless” advocacy.

According to the announcement text, Kaplan “led NAB through a decade of critical court wins, including a unanimous victory at the Supreme Court removing outdated restrictions on broadcast ownership. He also oversaw a seminal victory for the radio industry before the Copyright Royalty Board, which dramatically lowered streaming rates for broadcasters. That win paved the way for a landmark settlement in the most recent webcasting proceeding.”

NAB said he also worked on regulatory and legal issues including ATSC 3.0, retransmission consent, the FCC’s broadcast spectrum incentive auction, music licensing, sponsor ID rules and reducing broadcasters’ regulatory fees.

Prior to NAB, Kaplan held several roles at the FCC, including chief of the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau and counsel roles with Chairman Julius Genachowski and Commissioner Mignon Clyburn.

This article initially appeared on Radio World, sister brand to TV Tech.

OVERLAND PARK, Kan.—The National Content & Technology Cooperative has promoted four executives to senior vice president: Steve Beardslee, Rob Smith, Shelly Thompson and Stewart Myers.

“Steve, Rob, Shelley and Stewart have each made a lasting impact on NCTC and helped build the foundation for our continued success,” CEO Lou Borrelli said. “They are trusted colleagues, strong advocates for our members and proven leaders who consistently step forward when NCTC needs them. These promotions are well-deserved, and I am excited about what they will accomplish in their expanded roles.”

Beardslee’s new title is senior vice president, products and technology. In this role, he’ll lead NCTC’s video, broadband, mobile and MVNO services, network infrastructure and emerging technology initiatives.

Smith will be senior vice president, member development and strategic programs. He will be tasked with continuing to develop and expand the co-op’s AI Center of Excellence, leading member development and increasing adoption of NCTC products and services.

Thompson’s new title is senior vice president, programming. She will negotiate and administer NCTC’s programming and broadcast agreements and advise on implementation and compliance, helping members navigate complex requirements and secure valuable content options.

Finally, Myers will also serve as senior vice president, programming. He will lead the negotiation and drafting of content agreements and shape NCTC’s content strategy.

“Our members operate in a rapidly changing marketplace and need practical solutions that help them compete,” Borrelli said. “These promotions position NCTC to better connect strategy with execution across our key member services.”

The NCTC is a content and technology buying cooperative serving about 650 independent broadband and video providers across North America and the U.S. territories.

MELBOURNE, Fla.—USSI Global has elevated Amanda Flynn to chief operating officer of the provider of network, broadcast media and digital signage systems and services.

An 18-year company veteran, Flynn most recently was USSI’s chief revenue officer. She will focus on advancing the company’s service capabilities, aligning operations with customer needs and driving strategic growth, USSI said.

“Amanda brings a unique perspective to this role through her deep understanding of our customers, our business and the industries we serve,” USSI Global President and CEO Anthony Morelli said. “Her ability to translate customer challenges into meaningful service solutions, combined with her knowledge of our operations, will be instrumental as we continue to evolve and grow.”

Flynn has held several leadership roles throughout her USSI tenure spanning business development, customer relations, sales and revenue operations, including five years of overseeing and managing one of its largest revenue-generating customers, the company said. She brings a deep understanding of customer needs, operational challenges and opportunities to develop innovative service solutions that drive long-term partnerships and growth, USSI said.

As chief operating officer, Flynn will focus on identifying opportunities to expand USSI Global’s service offerings, the company said, refining processes to improve the customer experience and ensuring USSI is positioned to support the evolving technology and business needs of its customers.

“My experience working closely with customers has taught me that the best opportunities come from understanding their challenges and finding creative ways to solve them,” Flynn said. “I’m excited to bring that perspective to operations, working alongside our teams to develop new services, fine-tune our processes and continue delivering solutions that make a meaningful difference for our customers.’

Flynn joined the company in 2008 and had been CRO since March 2024. Her promotion follows Ed McGivern’s hiring as CRO.

LONDON—Rise AV, a global nonprofit group dedicated to attracting, supporting and retaining women employees in the pro AV industry, has launched its North American Regional Council.

The appointments mark the next step in its global expansion effort, the group said. That drive, made possible with the help of global partners QSC and Neat, will allow Rise AV to deliver the mentoring program to North American participants free of charge, it said.

“Having been personally involved with Rise AV as a mentor on its Mentoring Program and a Jedi on its Elevate management development program, I’ve seen first-hand the impact its work can have,” Wayne Mason, VP of EMEA, Neat, said. “We’re proud to now become a Rise AV partner and help support the launch into North America, bringing these opportunities to more women and helping to build a stronger, more inclusive AV industry.”

The North American Regional Council will bring together experienced professionals from across the AV industry to help Rise AV build its regional community, develop local partnerships and ensure its programs reflect market needs and realities, it said. Initial members include:

• Gina Sansivero, Vice President, Marketing and Communications, AtlasIED (Council Chair)
• Scott Josephson, Senior Support Consultant, Google
• Siobhan Stewart, Account Manager, National Audio Visual
• Steve Samson, President, Americas, Turtle AV
• Jeremy Elsesser, President and CEO, Level 3 Audiovisual
• Lainie Mataras, General Manager, Planar
• Meg Sciarini, Worldwide Events & Experience, Apple
• Noreen Esson, Client Success Manager, Diversified Canada

The announcement comes as Rise AV launches its first North America Mentoring Program, with applications opening in December and the six-month program beginning next May. Council members will support development of the mentoring program, help connect Rise AV with the regional industry, identify opportunities for events and professional development and contribute to the growth of a community that can continue beyond the six-month program, the organization said.

“I’ve spent my career watching talented women leave this industry because they didn't have the right person in their corner at the right moments,” said Gina Sansivero, the council’s chair. “Rise AV gives us a real structure to fix that—mentorship, skill, and a community that supports each other well after the program ends. I'm proud to help bring that to North America with a group of stellar council members.

“Research from the Anita Borg Institute found women in technology with mentors are 77% more likely to still be in the industry three years later,” she added. “That’s the kind of proof I wanted behind this program, and why I think it’s important to bring it to NA now.”

Vanessa Tolisano, CTI, will also join Rise AV as North America program coordinator, supporting delivery and day-to-day coordination. She’ll report to Carla Maroussas, Rise AV’s global mentoring manager.

For more on the program or to apply, visit the Rise AV website.

TYSONS, Va.—Tegna has elevated veteran executives Joan Barrett, Kate Morris and Brad Ramsey to group general managers, tasked to lead its stations across six regions and rounding out the station group’s new leadership structure.

Barrett was named to oversee Tegna stations in its Northeast and Southeast regions. She had been president and general manager of WCNC Charlotte, N.C., since 2020, adding oversight for WFMY Greensboro, N.C., in 2024. Prior to joining Tegna, she was president and GM of KDVR-KWGN Denver and led Shurz Communications’ stations in Wichita, Kan. She is a co-founder and longtime trainer for the Carole Kneeland Project for Responsible Journalism, a nonprofit that trains newsroom leaders.

Morris was appointed to oversee Tegna’s Midwest and West regions. A 25-year local news veteran, she had been president and GM of KPNX Phoenix in 2020 and also oversaw KMSB and KTTU in Tuscon, Ariz. Prior to joining KPNX, known on-air as 12News, she was with KTVB Boise, Idaho, rising through the ranks from executive news director to president and GM and winning seven National Edward R. Murrow Awards, Tegna said.

Also Read: Tegna, Disney Renew ABC Affiliation in 13 Markets

She serves on the boards of the Arizona Media Association and the Arizona State University Cronkite Endowment Board of Trustees.

Ramsey will lead Tegna’s Texas and Mid-South stations. Most recently a senior vice president of revenue who led the group’s sports-rights strategy, he helped Tegna become the first broadcaster with full-season team rights across the NBA, WNBA, NHL and MLB. Before that, he was Tegna’s senior VP of media operations.

Ramsey was also senior VP and GM of WFAA Dallas-Fort Worth for seven years, earning 17 major national journalism awards over his tenure, including the National Edward R. Murrow Award for Overall Excellence and the NAB Service to America Award. He serves on the executive committee of the ABC affiliate board.

"Viewers’ habits and advertisers’ needs are constantly shifting, and we have to innovate quickly to serve both,” Tegna CEO Patrick Paolini said. “Engaging content and strong sales go hand in hand, and our local GMs are best positioned to connect them in their markets. These leaders will give our general managers the support, resources, and tools they need to grow our business on every platform, at every station.”

In March, Tegna was acquired by Nexstar Media Group in a $6.2 billion transaction. However, the companies are currently required to operate separately under a federal hold-separate order as a multistate antitrust lawsuit challenging that deal plays out in court.

Engineers, IT and technical staff are invited to attend a technical symposium put on by Chapter 39 of the Society of Broadcast Engineers and American Tower in November.

It will be held on Nov. 12 at a Nielsen facility in Oldsmar, Fla.

Chapter 39 is based in Tampa Bay.

“This event offers a full day of excellent broadcast engineering and technology content for just $20, including breakfast, lunch and refreshments,” according to Roz Clark, who is one of the chapter’s officers.

“It’s one of the most affordable and valuable training opportunities available for broadcast engineering technologists. We have some heavyweight presenters covering all sorts of technology including cyber, advanced networking and AWS for Broadcast. This will also be the final year the symposium is held at the Nielsen facility before its closure.”

The agenda appears below on a poster shared by the chapter. Register at www.sbe39.com.

MELBOURNE, Fla.—Broadcast systems integrator USSI Global has tapped Ed McGivern as chief revenue officer.

Most recently president and general manager of Appear U.S., the 25-year industry veteran is tasked with leading USSI Global’s go-to-market strategy, customer acquisition and revenue expansion, the company said.

“USSI Global is entering a period of tremendous opportunity as our customers navigate another major C-band transition while also confronting broader changes in how they build, operate and support their technology infrastructures,” said USSI President and CEO Anthony Morelli, to whom McGivern will report. “Ed understands these customers, their businesses and the markets we serve. His leadership will help us capitalize on those opportunities while expanding our managed services and developing new business in markets such as government, sports, and live events.”

At Appear, McGivern built the company’s U.S. organization from the ground up, USSI Global said, growing its sales, operations and support function into a business that generated some $45 million in annual revenue in less than five years. Previously, he had held senior commercial leadership posts with several large broadcast and media technology companies, including Harris Broadcast/Imagine Communications, Grass Valley/Snell Advanced Media and Tektronix.

McGivern’s appointment comes as USSI Global preps its customers for the next phase of the Federal Communications Commission-mandated C-band satellite spectrum transition. USSI Global said McGivern sees an opportunity to turn large-scale projects like the C-band transition into longer-term customer relationships by extending its involvement into areas such as ongoing monitoring, connectivity management and other managed services.

“The commercial strategy starts with understanding the customer’s business and making USSI Global easy to work with,” McGivern said. “Customers don’t want to navigate complicated organizations. They want partners that understand what they are trying to achieve, can bring the right expertise to the table and can remain engaged throughout the lifecycle of the project.”

NAB Show New York will again be held at the Javits Center this month.

Its conferences take place Tuesday, Oct. 20, to Thursday, Oct. 22, with the exhibits open on Wednesday and Thursday.

The show promises to explore “AI, creators, streaming, sports and broadcasting alongside the technologies and business strategies shaping the future of media.”

The list of 200-plus exhibitors includes names familiar in radio, including AWS, Calrec, Comrex, ENCO, GatesAir, Lawo, Nautel, Orban, Radio.Cloud, RCS, Telos Alliance, Wheatstone, WideOrbit, WorldCast Systems and Xperi.

On the show floor, four theaters will offer free educational programming.

Last year’s show drew a reported 11,500 people.

The session list for 2026 is heavy with content for TV professionals. There’s a conference on Local TV Strategies, as well as NAB Show New York Post|Production World, in partnership with Future Media Conferences, which is for editors, producers and motion designers in TV, film and video. One of the floor theaters will have a dedicated sports track.

Separately, a “SMPTE Bootcamp: Precision Timing for ST 2110” will discuss precision timing systems that keep distributed media in sync and the network mechanics that carry audio and video across IP infrastructure.

“Real-World Newsroom Results”
A Wednesday afternoon session offers highlights from NAB’s Google AI Training.

“Learn how broadcasters are applying Google AI tools following NAB’s Google News Initiative training program,” organizers stated.

That training was offered to NAB members and was conducted virtually this summer.

“Participants will share practical workflow learnings for deep research, document analysis, information integrity and building more resilient newsrooms, while discussing how AI can strengthen journalism, improve daily operations and better serve audiences across broadcast and digital platforms.”

Sports Betting
A session called “The Future of Sports Betting: Growth, Media & Responsibility” takes place Wednesday afternoon.

Christian Genetski is president of FanDuel, while Craig Carton of WFAN New York is an award-winning sports broadcaster and “Responsible Gaming Ambassador” for FanDuel as well as an inductee to the New York State Broadcasters Hall of Fame.

They plan to talk about the convergence of betting and media, the changing regulatory landscape, the future of fan engagement and the industry’s responsibility to address problem gambling.

Future of Media
Show organizers say that as legacy business models come under pressure and investors demand greater focus, media companies are rethinking their portfolios through mergers, acquisitions, divestitures and spin-offs.

What are the implications of this trend for audiences, advertisers and investors? The question will be explored on Wednesday in “The Future of Media: Consolidation or Spin-Off?”

It will be moderated by media and sports reporter Alex Sherman of CNBC. Among those speaking is Jessica Reif Ehrlich, managing director and senior media and entertainment analyst at BofA Securities,

Here’s a link to info about the exhibit floor.

WHYY has announced that Fred Vigeant has been named general manager of Pennsylvania’s WPSU(TV-FM), effective Oct. 26.

According to a release, Vigeant will lead a WPSU team already in place, with several staff members taking on new roles.

Vigeant’s appointment follows the Oct. 1 completion of WHYY’s acquisition of WPSU from Penn State University. WPSU is licensed to State College, Pa., and its full-power licenses and translators cover 24 counties for television and 13 counties for radio across central and northern Pennsylvania.

Philadelphia-based WHYY has retained WPSU’s name and call letters, and said the public media outlet remains locally focused and locally run.

WPSU’s updated personnel structure includes:

• Jeff Hughes, interim general manager during the transition
• Jon Widmer, director of technology
• Emily Reddy, news director
• Jeff Benzing, director of content and audience engagement
• Susan Chyzewski, director of education, grants and government relations

Search processes are underway to fill two additional leadership positions: director of advancement and director of broadcasting and programming.

Vigeant joins WPSU from WITF(TV-FM) in Harrisburg, Pa., where he served as vice president and chief audience officer since 2022. He previously served as WITF’s director of programming and promotion for TV and radio, a role he began in 2012.

He also spent 12 years at WRVO(FM) in Oswego, N.Y., serving in several roles, including program director and operations manager.

This article initially appeared on Radio World, sister brand to TV Tech.

DALLAS—Applications have opened for the 2026 LAUNCH Mentorship Program, a yearlong program run by Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio (MIW) and the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) that, for the first time this year, will be expanded to involve women working for broadcast technology partners and vendors.

LAUNCH, which began in 2023, is a program created to develop and advance women pursuing careers in broadcast engineering, audio production and technical operations. The yearlong program pairs a rising professional with an experienced industry mentor for one-on-one guidance, professional development and deeper exposure to broadcast technologies and operations.

Mentees will gain insight into Federal Communications Commission compliance, RF systems, the Emergency Alert System, IP-based broadcast systems, automation, network operations and other crucial areas. The program also explores IT, remote broadcasting, digital audio, streaming and systems integration. Participants will also have an opportunity to attend the 2027 NAB Show in Las Vegas.

“As technology continues to transform every part of the broadcast business, we need more women building, operating and leading the systems that will take our industry forward,” said Sheila Kirby, board president of MIW. “Expanding LAUNCH to include women working with our technology partners and vendors allows us to reach talented professionals across a much broader part of the broadcast ecosystem. This program is about giving women access to the mentorship, technical knowledge and relationships that can help turn career potential into long-term leadership.”

This year, organizers have expanded eligibility beyond those working directly for broadcasters to include broadcast technology partners and vendors, allowing more women pursuing technical careers to participate, MIW and NABLF said.

“By expanding LAUNCH to include women at technology partners and vendors, we can reach more professionals whose expertise is essential to how our industry operates and evolves,” NABLF President Michelle Duke said. “We are proud to continue partnering with MIW to provide meaningful mentorship, industry exposure and opportunities that help women grow their careers and become leaders in broadcast technology.”

Applications will be accepted from Oct. 6–30. To apply for the Mentorship, click here.

The LAUNCH Mentorship Program is sponsored by Mr. Master, a provider of content distribution and compliance software to radio stations.

WALTHAM, Mass.—Zixi, a provider of live IP video-transport software, has named John Towers as chief financial officer.

Towers is a 20-year media and entertainment technology veteran who most recently was chief financial officer at video metadata firm Fabric Data.

Towers is tasked with leading Zixi’s finance function as the firm scales up to meet growing demand from broadcasters, sports leagues and streaming platforms looking to shift live video delivery from satellite and legacy infrastructure to IP, the company said.

“John has spent his career inside the kind of transition our customers are going through now,” Zixi CEO Marc Aldrich said. “He understands the economics of moving from physical to digital and from legacy to IP, and he has scaled finance and operations at both a global media company and a fast-growing SaaS business. That combination is exactly what we need as Zixi grows.”

Prior to Fabric Data, where he was CFO for three years, Tower worked for two years in corporate development at Deluxe, which he joined following its purchase of Sony’s digital video distribution business, a transaction which he oversaw.

Towers had been chief operating officer and president of Sony’s digital video distribution division, having joined the unit in 2012 as CFO. Prior to that, he was CFO of the Sony division that handled U.S. Blu-ray Disc manufacturing. He worked on the launch of Blu-ray in 2006.

Tower started his career in pharmaceutical manufacturing, including a five-year stint in Paris.

“One theme has run through my whole career, from pharmaceutical manufacturing onwards: helping businesses move from old infrastructure to new,” Towers said. “I have lived through this kind of transition before, and I am looking forward to bringing that experience to the finance function as Zixi scales.”

Former Deluxe, Technicolor and Sundog Media Toolkit exec Richard Welsh has joined Molinare Creative Group in the new role of chief innovation officer.

Welsh, who is also president of SMPTE, will work across the company’s five specialist businesses to identify where emerging technology can “make a meaningful difference” to creative and production workflows, the client experience and how the Group operates.

His remit will span AI and automation alongside the development of new technology-led products, services and ways of working.

Welsh began his career at Dolby, working across film sound and digital cinema, before taking on a senior role at Technicolor. In 2013, he founded Sundog Media Toolkit, where he developed cloud-based automated mastering technology for film and television. Following its acquisition by Deluxe, he went on to serve as SVP of innovation at Deluxe.

Speaking about Welsh’s appointment, Nigel Bennett, CEO of Molinare Creative Group, said: “Richard is a significant appointment for Molinare Creative Group. He understands this industry, but also has a track record of looking ahead to where technology is taking it.

“This isn’t about technology for technology’s sake. It’s about making the experience of working with us better, giving our teams better tools and building services that respond to where our clients and the industry are heading.”

Welsh added: “I’ve spent much of my career working through major technology shifts in our industry, from digital cinema to cloud production, and AI has the potential to be the most significant change our industry has ever seen.

“What excites me about joining Molinare Creative Group is the opportunity to build on such a strong technical and creative foundation. I’m looking forward to working across the Group to explore how new technologies can solve real challenges, improve workflows and give our teams the tools and freedom to focus on creative work,” he added.

“I believe innovation is much broader than AI, of course. The goal is to harness technology to deliver practical improvements today, while developing the products, services and workflows our clients will need tomorrow.”

Nominations for the 2026 annual Media and Entertainment: Best in Market Awards are now open. The awards are open to companies that launched a product/service or brought new upgrades to an existing product/service in 2026.

They are comprised of three Future-brand categories: TV Tech, TVBEurope and and Radio World.

Winners will be promoted on the selected brand’s website, publications and newsletters as an official Best in Market award winner. They will also receive a fully-licensed winner’s badge that can be used to promote the product as a winner, both domestically and internationally.

All entrants—whether selected as a winner or not—will receive a nominee badge to promote their entry.

Entries must be submitted by 23:59 PST on Nov. 20th, 2026. Winners will be announced in mid-December.

More details are available here.

INDIANAPOLIS—Andrew Sveum has joined the Society for Broadcast Engineers as marketing and growth director, an expansion of the group’s leadership team under its new strategic plan.

The position is intended to reflect SBE’s commitment to expand its reach, strengthen member engagement and support long-term growth, the group said.

A 20-year business owner and nonprofit veteran, Sveum is the founder and executive director of Freedom Rising, a group that combats human trafficking and supports vulnerable communities around the world. His background in business ownership, nonprofit leadership, international experience, marketing grant research and partner development gives Sveum a broad perspective on organizational growth and community engagement, SBE said.

The SBE is a professional organization supporting television and radio engineers and those in related fields with more than 4,000 members in 117 chapters across the U.S., Hong Kong, Eastern Europe and in more than 25 other countries. It offers educational programs, networking opportunities, a U.S. technical broadcast certification program and an expansive list of educational programs for broadcast engineers, operators, technicians and IT professionals, as well as advocacy for its members with federal agencies and the U.S. Congress.

For more information, visit SBE’s website.

Skydance CEO David Ellison announced late last week that the combined Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery will be named “Skydance.”

The merger, which took nearly a year to complete and will be finalized Oct. 6, is valued at approximately $111 billion and will create a studio that’s a “creative-first home for bold, quality storytelling,” he said. Ellison, son of Oracle founder Larry Ellison, founded the original Skydance production company in 2006.

“We chose this name for a few important reasons,” Ellison wrote in a post on X last week. “First and foremost, as we bring Paramount and Warner Bros. together, we wanted to preserve what has made each of these studios iconic. Both have distinct identities, extraordinary legacies and brands that have resonated with audiences for generations.\

“We never wanted a new corporate identity to diminish, alter or overshadow either one,” Ellison added. “Instead, we wanted a name that would give the combined company an identity of its own while allowing Paramount and Warner Bros.—and all our extraordinary brands—to remain in the spotlight.”

A federal judge gave the green light to the merger on Sept. 30. U.S. District Judge Araceli Martínez-Olguín called the deal a "reasonable factual and legal resolution“ and rejected objections seeking broader restrictions.

The merger has its share of opponents, not least from Hollywood. Actor Mark Ruffalo called the move "incredibly disappointing" and warned that creativity and people’s livelihoods will be threatened.

“This merger will stifle creativity, weaken free speech, and cost people their jobs—it is a bad deal for this country and should never have been approved,” Ruffalo wrote in a post on X.

“This is an incredibly disappointing outcome for the hundreds of thousands of us who stood up to block it, but it's also not the end,” he continued. “This grassroots movement isn't going to fade away and neither is our resolve. This was never about just one merger: this was about fighting back against corrupt oligarch billionaires trampling the interests of everyday people to line their own pockets.”

Ellison will probably have more immediate concerns when the merger is completed this week, given the disastrous debut of Warner Bros.’ movie “Digger” this weekend. Despite its Tom Cruise star power, the film—estimated to have cost upwards of $250 million, including marketing— grossed just $8 million domestically and $12 million internationally at the box office.

Prominent names and faces from across the media and entertainment industry gathered at New York’s Ziegfeld Ballroom on Sept. 29 for the Broadcasting+Cable Hall of Fame, the gala annual industry event that is a Future B2B sister brand to TV Tech.

Among the honorees this year were CNN’s Wolf Blitzer, Bravo reality maven Andy Cohen and celebrity chef Bobby Flay; leading executives including NBCUniversal Telemundo chairman Luis Fernandez, Fox News Media CEO Suzanne Scott and Disney President, Global Advertising Rita Ferro; franchise of the year “Star Trek,” celebrating its 60th anniversary and, from the tech world, smart TV pioneer William Wang, founder and CEO of Vizio.

Click the gallery below to view photos from the evening’s festivities.

For more on the B+C Hall of Fame class of 2026, read the digital edition of the event program here.

(Photos by Mark Reinertson)

NEW YORK—Emergent has named Tom Shelburne as head of business development, North America, tasked with driving the browser-native broadcast graphics provider’s expansion across such categories as sports, houses of worship, corporate media production, podcasts and new media producers and systems integrators.

A five-time Emmy Award winner, Shelburne is the former replay technical director for NBC’s NFL “Sunday Night Football” telecast. He has also held senior North America roles at Vizrt, Pixotope and Mo-Sys.

“Everything we learned over the years about workflow, render engines, and graphic design has been reimagined,” Shelburne said. “This isn’t a faster version of the old way; it changes how people think about making graphics.”

Emergent positions its product, built on the WebGPU standard that gives web browsers native access to local broadcast platforms, as a full-fledged broadcast rendering engine that eliminates the need for locally installed software. A cloud-native system, Emergent’s platform handles standard HTML and WebGPU rendering to replace traditional hardware render engines, the company said.

Emergent’s platform uses AI across the production lifecycle, from automated graphics creation and live-data population to automated social clipping and asset management, the company said. It is deployable via public cloud services or on-premises models.

At Emergent, Shelburne will rejoin several colleagues he once worked with at Vizrt, now on its leadership team, including CEO Greg Mindlin, Chief Business Officer David Jorba, Chief Creative Officer Miguel Yabrudes and Chief Technology Officer Wilson Li.

“Tom has sat in the TD chair and across the table from customers, and they trust him,” Jorba said. “When we built something so different, he was the first person we wanted to see it.”

For more on Emergent, visit its website.

Global media technology provider Qvest has elevated Katlyn Alexander to CEO for North America.

Alexander, who had been chief operating officer of Qvest in the U.S., succeeds the Qvest U.S. founding partners as part of a yearlong leadership transition.

She will be tasked with overseeing strategic direction, operational performance and market expansion across North America, with a focus on supporting customers in media and entertainment and other sectors in transitioning toward digitalization, cloud and AI, the company said.

“Katlyn is an integral part of Qvest and has played a key role in shaping our business in the U.S. market,” Qvest Group Global CEO Thorsten Sauer said. “Her operational depth ensures continuity and sustained business momentum, while her deep understanding of our clients and our business ideally positions her to lead the organization into its next phase of growth.”

Alexander’s promotion is part of a planned transition at Qvest’s North America operations in which its founding partners are gradually handing their responsibilities over to a younger generation of executives. She joined Qvest in 2014 and has held several leadership posts.

“We are thrilled to enter this next chapter of leadership under Katlyn,” Qvest U.S. Founding Partner Frank Leal said. “She has been with the organization for over 12 years and has our culture and drive for putting clients first in her DNA.”

In addition to North America, Germany-based Qvest operates locations in Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Australia.

Said Alexander: “I am grateful to our Founding Partners for their vision, leadership, and the culture they built—one that continues to attract and retain exceptional talent. I would also like to thank the Qvest Group management team for the trust they are placing in me, and I look forward to working together in my new role. Building on that foundation, we are focused on the future, accelerating AI-driven innovation, advancing technology-enabled solutions, and delivering scaled business transformation for our clients.”

CINCINNATI—The E.W. Scripps Company has promoted veteran news leader Sean McGarvy to head of news, effective Oct. 5.

As part of the company’s efforts to transform how it delivers trusted journalism and builds stronger community connections, McGarvy will lead news and content strategy and oversee news standards for Scripps News Group, bringing Scripps’ local newsrooms, digital operations and Scripps News, the company’s national streaming news network, closer together under a unified consumer focused strategy.

McGarvy will report to Dean Littleton, who was promoted to president of media in July.

“Scripps’ transformation is about evolving our organization to serve audiences and communities in new ways,” Littleton said. “Our journalism is central to that work, and Sean brings the news judgment, operational discipline and audience focus needed to help align our local newsrooms, digital operations and Scripps News around the needs of American news consumers. His leadership will help us move trusted journalism faster across platforms while strengthening the connection between our reporting and the communities we serve.”

Most recently, McGarvy served as Scripps’ senior director of digital news operations, leading strategy and audience growth across Scripps News Group’s digital platforms, including YouTube and Meta. He has helped expand the reach and impact of the company’s journalism through audience-driven news strategies and a coordinated approach to digital publishing and streaming news. Previously, as senior director of local news strategy, he worked with Scripps’ local TV markets to deepen community connection and strengthen collaboration across Scripps News Group.

Earlier in his Scripps career, McGarvy was news director at WEWS, Scripps’ ABC affiliate in Cleveland, and assistant news director at KMGH, Scripps’ ABC affiliate in Denver. His career spans almost 30 years in newsrooms across the country, including managing editor and assignment manager roles at local TV stations and Fox News Channel. His work has been recognized with seven Edward R. Murrow Awards and 10 regional Emmy Awards.

McGarvy holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in broadcast journalism from the University of Missouri in Columbia.

BOSTON—The Massachusetts Broadcasters Association (MBA) has announced that it will honor longtime Boston 25 (WFXT) anchor Gene Lavanchy with its Broadcaster of the Year Award.

Lananchy will received the award at the association’s annual Sound Bites conference to be held November 19 at the Renaissance Framingham Hotel and Conference Center, Framingham, Massachusetts.

Lavanchy, a Massachusetts native, has been a familiar face in New England homes for more than 37 years, informing, entertaining, and connecting with viewers through his approachable style, local perspective, and genuine appreciation for the communities he serves, MBA reported.

“Gene represents everything that makes a great broadcaster,” said Todd Brown, vice president and general manager of Boston 25, which is owned by Cox Media Group. “For years, he’s been a trusted and familiar presence in our community, bringing professionalism, passion, and a genuine commitment to the viewers we serve. Gene has been part of the stories that matter most to our local community- celebrating its people, highlighting its accomplishments and being there during its most important moments. Gene has not only been an important part of the station’s history but has helped shape the legacy we continue to build today. We are incredibly proud to honor him as Broadcaster of the Year.”

Lavanchy began his Boston television career in 1989 as the studio host for Boston Bruins hockey broadcasts on TV38, a role he held for four seasons. In 1992, he joined WHDH-TV as weekend sports anchor before rising to Sports Director and lead sports anchor. During his 11 years at the station, Gene also hosted the popular Sunday night program Sports Xtra. His work earned him multiple Emmy and Associated Press awards, as well as recognition as Massachusetts Sportscaster of the Year by the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association.

“Gene Lavanchy epitomizes ‘localism’ in broadcast television,” said MBA executive director Jordan Walton. “From his work in the sports world, which we take very seriously in New England, to his time 20+ years as a news anchor at Boston 25, Gene has developed an incredible connection with his viewers and we look forward to honoring him at Sound Bites 2026 this November.”

In 2003, Gene became a vital part of the launch of Boston 25 Morning News. Its “all local, all morning long” combination of news, traffic, and weather offered viewers a distinctly New England alternative to national morning programs. Since then, it has grown into a go-to source for busy viewers preparing for the day ahead.

For the past 23 seasons, Gene has also served as the field anchor for Boston 25 Morning News’ popular Zip Trips. Broadcasting live from cities and towns across Massachusetts, he has visited more than 300 communities and met thousands of remarkable people along the way.

Lavanchy will be the thirteenth recipient of the MBA Broadcaster of the Year Award.

Sound Bites is the MBA’s annual learning, meeting, and mingling event which provides seminars for sales, programming staff, and managers, offers a networking reception and dinner program led by the MBA’s annual meeting, industry guests and speakers, and the annual Sound Bites Awards, which recognizes the best in Massachusetts radio and television broadcasting over the previous year.

Tickets for Sound Bites can be purchased on the association’s website through November 12.

Visit www.massbroadcasters.org for more information.

The Society of Broadcast Engineers has announced the recipients of the Ennes Educational Foundation Trust educational scholarships for 2026. The winners—who are chosen from applications received by the July 1, 2026, deadline—will each receive $3,000.

Harold E. Ennes Scholarship
Diovany Deus, recipient of the Harold E. Ennes Scholarship. Diovany is a Broadcast Systems Technician at WESH 2/CW 18 in Orlando, Fla., and an SBE Certified Broadcast Television Engineer (CBTE) pursuing a Master of Science in Information Technology. He specializes in broadcast operations, streaming technologies and media automation, with a strong passion for advancing the future of television through innovation.

Throughout his career, Diovany has focused on developing practical solutions that bridge traditional broadcasting with emerging technologies, including cloud-based broadcast systems and artificial intelligence. His work is driven by a commitment to improving operational efficiency, automation, and the viewer experience.

Following graduation, Diovany plans to continue developing innovative technologies that modernize broadcast infrastructure and help shape the future of media.

Robert D. Greenberg Scholarship
Brendan Temkin, recipient of the Robert D. Greenberg Scholarship, is an active member of Hofstra University's award-winning radio station, WRHU. As part of Brendan’s role, he has engineered for the On-Air Ireland Show, hosted the Country Nation Show, produced highlights and engineered for the New York Islanders Radio Network, and delivered sports segments for Newsline.

Brendan’s technical work extends to audio engineering and phone AD for the Long Island Nets broadcasts, while holding on-air roles including color commentary and play-by-play for the Long Island Ducks. Next semester, he will serve as Lead Producer for the New York Islanders on WRHU overseeing live game broadcasts and attending games to interview players.

Brendan’s professional experience also includes promotions with the New York Mets, sales with the Long Island Ducks, and a recent internship in Broadcast Operations at Paramount, where he gained hands-on experience with major-network workflows and production systems. His goal after graduation is to work for a New York City company in broadcast engineering.

Youth Scholarship
Adrianna Taliercio, recipient of the Ennes Youth Scholarship, is a 2026 graduate of Wall High School in Wall Township, NJ. Her interest in broadcasting began during her freshman year when she enrolled in a television production and media creation course. She continued studying the field throughout high school and gained hands-on experience as a member of Wall High School’s Daily Morning Show. Through this experience, she developed an appreciation for both the creative process and the equipment and technology required to produce a live broadcast.

In Fall 2026, she will begin studying communication at Monmouth University, where she plans to focus on sports media and content creation. She looks forward to expanding her knowledge of broadcasting and media technology while gaining practical experience in college. Her goal is to pursue a career that combines the creative and technical sides of media, with a particular interest in sports broadcasting and content production.

John H. Battison SBE Founder’s Scholarship
Katie Herring is the recipient of the John H. Battison SBE Founder’s Scholarship. After high school, Katie began working for MH Corbin, a highway information systems company that manufactures, builds, and tests equipment such as traffic counters, beacon controls, and AM Highway Advisory Radio. Her interest in radio started by learning from her grandfather, Ralph Herring, who founded Wake Radio at Wake Forest University and built their transmitter while he was a student there in 1948.

This fall, Katie will graduate from Wake Tech Community College’s NCAB Broadcast Technology Academy with her CBT Radio certification. She plans to use the scholarship to pursue additional coursework in physics and electrical engineering while preparing for graduate school.

Gino Ricciardelli Scholarship
Tanner Denoyer, recipient of the Gino Ricciardelli Scholarship was born and raised in Liberal, Kan. He is a graduate of Liberal High School (Class of 2026) and a current student at Wichita State University. He possesses a strong interest in technology, actively developing his skills in coding and 3D modeling. Tanner has been actively involved in broadcast media since 2020, starting as a board operator for KSCB Radio in Liberal. He completed a semester-long studio engineering internship under John Mulhern at KSCB this past January.

After graduating from WSU, Tanner plans to leverage his background into a career in electrical engineering, focusing on designing and testing high-efficiency broadcast systems.

Applications for the next round of scholarships are being accepted now until July 1, 2027. More information about the Ennes Scholarships is available on the SBE website: sbe.org/scholarship

The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) has announced that the 2027 IEEE Arun N. Netravali Video Analytics, Technology, and Systems Award will be presented to Benjamin Bross, Jens-Rainer Ohm and Gary J. Sullivan, who have played leading roles in the international video coding standardization community.

This award recognizes their leadership in video coding standardization of HEVC and the importance of the standard they successfully developed together with the video industry community.

Benjamin Bross is the head of video coding systems at Fraunhofer HHI. Jens-Rainer Ohm, is Professor emeritus and former Head of the Institute of Communication Engineering at RWTH Aachen University and Dr. Gary J. Sullivan is the director of video research & standards at Dolby Laboratories.

The development of the HEVC standard brought together the world’s experts from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) in a team known as the Joint Collaborative Team on Video Coding (JCT-VC), the IEEE said.

Prof. Ohm and Dr. Sullivan chaired the development of the standard, and Benjamin Bross was the lead editor of its specification document. Together they supervised and steered a process in which thousands of technical contribution documents from about a thousand technical experts in the international community were analyzed, and in which the features of the standard were selected and refined by consensus within the JCT-VC. Their leadership ensured the standard’s practicality for mass-market implementation and its complete and detailed technical specification.

The HEVC standard, also known as H.265 and MPEG-H Part 2, is a major advance over its predecessor, the well-established AVC standard developed ten years earlier. HEVC can provide approximately a 50% reduction in the bit rate needed to encode video at the same level of visual quality as AVC.

After coordinated research conducted by experts from ITU-T and ISO/IEC groups, the JCT-VC was formed in 2010 and worked intensely on the design and specification of the HEVC standard, completing the first version in 2013. The standard was rapidly adopted by industry. It was a major factor in the successful deployment of several other major advances in video technology, including ultra-high definition (UHD) resolution, 10-bit video precision, high-dynamic range (HDR) with wide color gamut (WCG), high frame-rates, and streaming video services.

By the end of 2015, most new personal computers and mobile handset devices and essentially all 4K UHD televisions were already including support for the ground-breaking HEVC standard.

The IEEE noted that the history of video compression standardization has been dominated by efforts to maximize compression capability. By the time when the development of HEVC was started an increasing variety of services, the growing popularity of HD video even in mobile applications, and the emerging beyond-HD formats (e.g. 4K×2K resolution) were creating even stronger demand for improved compression capabilities.

HEVC has been designed to address essentially all existing applications of previous standards while particularly focusing on two key issues: increased video resolution and increased use of parallel processing architectures.

While HEVC is a collaborative development by a large team of experts, managing to drive it into the direction needed by industry and supported by the processing capability of real-time systems is the celebrated accomplishment of its project leaders and chief editor.

The HEVC standard has already become the primary video broadcast format in several countries, such as Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Croatia, and the Czech Republic.

It has also been adopted into the industry specifications of many other organizations in addition to those of ITU, ISO and IEC, including 3GPP, the 8K Association, ANSI/SCTE, ARIB, ATSC, BD ROM, CTA/CEA, Digital UK, ETSI/DVB, ETSI/EBU, IETF, NATO, MISB, and the Ultra HD Forum.

Low-power decoders are available from basically all video chip makers, and its encoding is supported in nearly all professional video production workflows. NASA even announced in March 2026 that its NASA+ streaming service was using HEVC, including its video for the Artemis II crewed mission beyond the lunar orbit, making the standard extraterrestrial as well as international.

In addition, HEVC is now supported in more than 90% of currently produced televisions, personal computers, mobile handsets, and web browsers, and it is very widely used by streaming service providers, television broadcasters, video recording devices and video security systems. The development of the HEVC standard received its first major award recognition with a Primetime Engineering Emmy Award for the JCT-VC in 2017.

NEW YORK—Comcast NBCUniversal and NBCUniversal Local announced that a total of $2.5 million has been awarded to 80 nonprofit organizations servicing one of the 11 NBC- and Telemundo-owned stations’ markets across the U.S. through the 2026 NBCUniversal Local Impact Grants.

Founded in 2018, NBCUniversal’s grant program has now provided $24.3 million to 695 nonprofit organizations.

“We’re proud to celebrate this year’s Local Impact Grant recipients and continue our support of impactful nonprofits in our markets,” said Valari Staab, chairman, NBCUniversal Local. “The impact of these organizations can be seen every day in the communities they serve, through the opportunities they create, the connections they build, and the lives they touch.”

For the ninth year, the competitive grant challenge is awarding unrestricted funding to eligible nonprofits making a difference in local communities. Applications were accepted in three categories: youth education and empowerment, next generation storytellers, and community engagement. The 2026 application window for 501(c)(3) nonprofits was March 24 through April 24.

“Local nonprofit organizations help expand opportunity, strengthen community connections and create lasting impact,” said Jessica Clancy, senior vice president of corporate social responsibility at NBCUniversal. “Through the NBCUniversal Local Impact Grants, we support organizations that are addressing the unique needs of their communities, opening doors for future generations, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of people across the country.”

Nonprofits receiving funds serve communities in the following NBC- and Telemundo-owned stations’ markets: New York (WNBC, WNJU), Los Angeles (KNBC, KVEA), Chicago (WMAQ, WSNS), Philadelphia (WCAU, WWSI), Dallas (KXAS, KXTX), Boston (WBTS, WNEU), Washington, D.C. (WRC-TV, WZDC), San Francisco (KNTV, KSTS), Miami (WTVJ, WSCV), San Diego (KNSD, KUAN) and Hartford, Conn. (WVIT, WRDM).

A full list of nonprofits receiving grants can be found here.

For more information on the NBCUniversal Local Impact Grants, visit localimpactgrants.com and the Spanish-language becasdeimpactolocal.com.

LOS ANGELES—Television Critics Association (TCA) members have voted to amend the organization's bylaws to prohibit generative AI usage in members' work and expand membership criteria to include new forms of content creation.

Recognizing changes in media, TCA—a nonprofit, member-run organization of more than 220 people who cover TV—now welcomes "professional television critics, reporters, writers, editors, and/or hosts who produce insightful, ethical, high-quality television criticism, reporting, and coverage that is distributed to the public."

That includes podcasters and creator-journalists whose work appears across mediums, such as e-mail newsletters and vertical video.

"People trust TCA members for their original reporting, insightful analysis, and helpful reviews, and should be able to find TCA members in any medium," said Andy Dehnart, TCA president and founder of reality blurred. "Our bylaws have always held members to high journalistic standards. These updates reflect how journalism has evolved and the work our members already do while welcoming professional creator-journalists and people who work across new platforms and formats."

TCA's new AI guidelines allow members to use industry-standard tools, but expressly prohibit publishing work produced entirely by generative AI.

"The addition of a clear AI policy ensures our audiences and those in the industry know that TCA members will not misrepresent a machine’s text as their own,” Dehnart explained. “This practice is especially concerning since generative AI is built on the stolen work of TV critics, journalists, media organizations, and other writers and artists. I’m proud that TCA members decided to make clear what is acceptable and what is not.”

The organization also reported that applications are now open at tvcritics.org/apply for those interested in membership. Applicants will be evaluated based on the quality of their work and vetted by TCA’s Board of Directors. TCA members have access to exclusive press conferences, professional development workshops, member-only discounts, and a vibrant community of other professionals who cover TV, among other perks.

During its annual meeting, members re-elected Kevin Fallon of The Daily Beast and Alex Reif of Laughing Place to new two-year terms as directors. The 2026-27 TCA Board of Directors also includes President Dehnart, Vice President Amy Amatangelo, Secretary Danette Chavez, Treasurer Megan Vick, and Directors Liz Shannon Miller and Matt Mitovitch.

ATLANTA—Gray Media has promoted Tim Maloney to general manager and director of sales of WBKO, the ABC, Fox, and The CW affiliate serving Bowling Green and the surrounding South Central Kentucky region. The promotion takes effect Sept. 21.

A 20-year WBKO veteran, he began his tenure at the station as an account executive and most recently served as multimedia sales manager, directing station revenue strategies and servicing local and regional business accounts.

Prior to joining WBKO, Tim founded and operated a multi-location retail business.

Tim maintains an active presence in local civic affairs. He currently serves on the board of directors for Junior Achievement of South Central Kentucky, where he previously served as Board Chairman, and holds an associate membership with the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. In addition, he helps spearhead station events, fundraisers, and community initiatives that support active partnerships with more than 30 nonprofit organizations across the region.

Tim attended Xavier University and studied fine arts at the Rochester Institute of Technology.

WASHINGTON—The NAB Leadership Foundation (NABLF) has announced the 2027 class of executives who will be taking its Broadcast Leadership Training (BLT) program.

For more than 25 years, BLT has prepared nearly 450 senior executives and managers for station ownership and C-suite roles. With interactive sessions led by seasoned faculty members and invited speakers, the participants explore financial and business strategy, management and leadership, artificial intelligence, human resources, organizational culture and other issues shaping the future of broadcasting. 

“The 2027 BLT class brings together an exceptional group of professionals who are ready to challenge conventional thinking, learn from one another and inspire confidence for what lies ahead,” said NABLF President Michelle Duke. “Resilient and effective leadership has never been more important, and we are thrilled to support these professionals as they grow and to see where their leadership takes them.”

The NAB welcomed the following members of the 2027 BLT class:  

• Angel Livas, founder and CEO, ALIVE Network
• Ashley Parker, vice president and general manager, KSAT, Graham Media Group 
• Brenden Nakamine, news director, KITV, Allen Media Group
• Coriya Burns Falker, general sales manager, Urban One Atlanta
• Eric Casella, vice president of programming, Cox Media Group
• Erik Smith, vice president of news operations and technology, Fox Television Stations
• Ilana Goldstein, director of finance and strategy, Beasley Media Group
• James Galindo, general manager, 23ABC (KERO-TV), The E.W. Scripps Company
• James Loftus, vice president and general manager, KAPP/KVEW, Morgan Murphy Media
• Jessica Fernandez, news director, Univision Television Group
• Keith Hildibrand, vice president of benefits, Gray Media
• Matt McDonald, general manager, Central Oregon Daily News (KBNZ/KOHD)
• PJ English, director of operations, Tuscaloosa Radio Group
• Shannone Dunlap, executive vice president and general manager, Black Diamond Broadcasting & Digital Solutions
• Shawnda Adams, news director, KOCO, Hearst Television

For more information about the program, please contact Pamela Cervera, senior program manager, NABLF.

The mission of the Foundation is to develop leaders, prepare individuals for careers in broadcasting and recognize the community impact of local television and radio stations. Learn more at nabfoundation.org.