Founded in 1994, The National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation was created to fund fellowships for students interested in learning about the broadcasting industry and who might not otherwise have had the opportunity to pursue this educational experience. As additional resources became available, the Foundation sponsored research and educational programs intended to increase public knowledge and understanding of issues related to broadcasting and other important issues such as public health, safety, and first amendment rights. In 1998, a prominent broadcasting executive made a half-million-dollar pledge to support diversity programs, introducing a principle now central to the Foundation’s mission. As a result of this gift, the Foundation launched the Broadcast Leadership Training program for aspiring station owners and corporate executives who are women and people of color. The Celebration of Service to America Awards was also founded in 1998 with the goal to recognize local radio and television broadcasters for outstanding public service in bettering the lives of others. The Celebration of Service to America Gala continues to be the principal fundraiser for the Foundation. Holding fast to diversity, public service, and leadership education, the NAB Leadership Foundation team continues to explore program development with initiatives in Media Sales (2001), Career Services (2004), and broadcast technology (2010). Graduates of our career advancement programs increasingly fill senior positions in broadcasting. The NAB Leadership Foundation is committed to building a bright, diverse, and innovative future for the broadcasting industry by investing in the industry's greatest resource, its people.
