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AWM Announces 2025 Gracie Awards Leadership Honorees

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Monday, January 19th 2026 at 10:51 GMT
      Locale: UNITED STATES

New York, NY - January 19, 2026 - As the media and entertainment landscape continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, the Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) has once again spotlighted the critical roles women are playing in shaping its future. Today, the AWM announced the eight recipients of the 2025 Gracie Awards Leadership Awards, a testament to their vision, resilience, and commitment to advancing women within a traditionally male-dominated industry.

The Gracie Awards, and particularly this Leadership Award subset, are highly regarded as a symbol of excellence within media. They recognize not just talent, but also the qualities of leadership - the ability to inspire, innovate, and create pathways for others. This year's selection highlights the breadth of female influence, spanning news, streaming, television, social media, and even culinary entertainment.

A Diverse Group of Trailblazers

The eight women being honored represent a remarkable range of experience and expertise. Bonnie Hammer, Chairman of NBCUniversal News Group and Sports Group, embodies decades of leadership in broadcast news and sports, a sector that has undergone significant digital transformation. Her influence on content strategy and audience engagement is undeniable. Caitlin McCarthy, Global Head of Entertainment at Spotify, is a key figure in the rapidly expanding world of audio streaming, navigating the complexities of content licensing, artist development, and personalized recommendations. Deirdre Cramer, founder and CEO of The Cramer Group, is a powerhouse in media consulting, helping companies navigate the ever-shifting digital landscape.

Eva Longoria Baston, known for her acting and producing work, also represents a growing trend: women using their platforms for activism and social change, increasingly interwoven into media content. Ira Bland, SVP of Global Inclusion at Paramount, speaks to the increasing importance of diversity and equitable representation within the entertainment industry--a topic that has gained immense urgency in recent years. Julie Henderson, President of Warner Bros. Television Group, is guiding one of the largest television studios through a period of significant transition, adapting to streaming and changing consumer viewing habits. Melanie DeMore, CMO of LinkedIn, understands the power of connection and communication in the digital age, and her strategies are reshaping how brands and individuals interact. Finally, Valerie Holfelder, President of Food Network, demonstrates that impactful leadership extends beyond traditional media sectors, demonstrating the power of curated content and community building.

The Alliance for Women in Media: More Than Just an Award

The AWM itself is a vital organization, operating as a non-profit dedicated to accelerating women's leadership. Through mentoring programs, networking opportunities, and thought leadership initiatives, the AWM actively works to create a more equitable and inclusive media environment. The Gracie Awards are just one facet of their broader mission. The organization recognizes that systemic change requires both celebrating successes and actively supporting the next generation of female leaders. The timing of this recognition is significant. 2025 marks a pivotal moment as the industry continues grappling with issues surrounding AI, shifting distribution models, and the evolving role of traditional media in a decentralized world. Having strong, visionary female leaders at the helm is not just beneficial--it's crucial for navigating these changes effectively.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 Gracie Awards Leadership Awards ceremony, scheduled for May 21, 2025, at the New York Marriott Marquis, promises to be an inspiring event. It serves not only as a celebration of achievement but as a powerful reminder of the ongoing need for advocacy and support for women in media and entertainment. The AWM's commitment to equity and inclusion reflects a broader societal shift, demonstrating that a diverse and representative media landscape is not just a matter of fairness, but a source of strength and innovation.