NEW YORK, NY – October 21, 2026 – 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 Extended 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.” Extended 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.
For broadcasters facing hardship, the Broadcasters Foundation of America is a financial lifeline built by and for the industry. If you know a colleague struggling with the costs of a serious illness, a natural disaster, family caregiving needs, or college tuition, BFOA is here to help and getting them connected could make all the difference. BFOA supports the broadcasting community through four core programs: Medical Aid: Monthly Grants for broadcasters unable to work due to a critical illness or family medical crisis Disaster Relief: Emergency Grants for colleagues recovering from a natural disaster or personal emergency Academic Programs: Scholarship and Internship opportunities that mentor and invest in the next generation of broadcasters Community Outreach: Events held across the country celebrating the strength of our broadcasting community Many broadcasters facing hardship don't reach out on their own, often out of pride, uncertainty about where to turn, or simply not knowing help exists. That's where you come in. If you know someone in our industry who's struggling, take a moment to share BFOA's resources with them. A quick conversation, a forwarded email, or a shared link could be the first step toward real relief for a colleague in need. Your BFOA is the only foundation sustained by the generosity of the broadcasting industry, for the broadcasting industry. Tune in, reach out, and learn more at www.broadcastersfoundation.org or by calling 212-373-8250, or email info@thebfoa.org .
For broadcasters facing hardship, the Broadcasters Foundation of America is a financial lifeline built by and for the industry. If you know a colleague struggling with the costs of a serious illness, a natural disaster, family caregiving needs, or college tuition, BFOA is here to help and getting them connected could make all the difference. BFOA supports the broadcasting community through four core programs: Medical Aid: Monthly Grants for broadcasters unable to work due to a critical illness or family medical crisis Disaster Relief: Emergency Grants for colleagues recovering from a natural disaster or personal emergency Academic Programs: Scholarship and Internship opportunities that mentor and invest in the next generation of broadcasters Community Outreach: Events held across the country celebrating the strength of our broadcasting community Many broadcasters facing hardship don't reach out on their own, often out of pride, uncertainty about where to turn, or simply not knowing help exists. That's where you come in. If you know someone in our industry who's struggling, take a moment to share BFOA's resources with them. A quick conversation, a forwarded email, or a shared link could be the first step toward real relief for a colleague in need. Your BFOA is the only foundation sustained by the generosity of the broadcasting industry, for the broadcasting industry. Tune in, reach out, and learn more at www.broadcastersfoundation.org or by calling 212-373-8250, or email info@thebfoa.org .
New York, NY – September 16, 2026 – The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) will hold its next Media Mixer in Chicago on October 7, 5:30pm CT to 7:30PM CT, at The Museum of Broadcast Communications , with special guest iHeart Media Chairman and CEO Bob Pittman , one of this year’s Radio Hall of Fame inductees. The Chicago Media Mixer is scheduled as a kick-off to the next evening’s Radio Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony . BFOA Media Mixers celebrate the camaraderie of the broadcast community and gives junior professionals the opportunity to mix and mingle with peers, on-air talent, and industry leaders in an intimate gathering. “With many executives in Chicago for the next night’s Radio Hall of Fame, we expect this to be our most exciting Media Mixer to date!” stated Tim McCarthy , President of the Broadcasters Foundation. “We are especially thankful to Bob for giving us his time and providing this rare opportunity for junior professionals to meet and interact with him.” Pittman will participate in a Q&A with Premier Networks’ nationally syndicated morning radio host Fred of The Fred Show . The Media Mixer will also highlight the Museum of Broadcast Communications’ interactive exhibit, The Evolution of Late-Night Television . Attendance to the BFOA Media Mixer is free thanks to event sponsors, including the Illinois Broadcasters Association . Space is limited and registration is required. To reserve their spot, radio and television professionals may click here . The Broadcasters Foundation's Media Mixer series has become one of broadcasting's foremost networking events, with successful gatherings held in New York, Los Angeles, Cleveland, and more.
The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) has announced the recipients of its inaugural Scholarship Program: Nathaniel Bradley, a Sports Communications Junior at Marquette University, and Inoa Manfredy, a Junior at Boston University studying Communications and Political Science.
BFOA Commemorates the 25th Anniversary of 9/11
New York, NY - July 28, 2026 - Jack Abernethy , Chief Executive Officer of FOX Television Stations, will serve as Chair of the Broadcasters Foundation of America’s (BFOA) 2026 Celebrity Golf Tournament , taking place Monday, September 14, at Siwanoy Country Club in Bronxville, NY. The Celebrity Golf Tournament is the BFOA’s second-largest annual fundraiser, bringing together leaders and celebrities from broadcasting, entertainment, and sports to support the Foundation's mission of providing financial assistance to radio and television professionals facing acute hardship caused by a debilitating illness or disaster. "The BFOA Celebrity Golf Tournament is one of the industry's signature events," said Abernethy. "It offers a unique opportunity to play one of the region's premier courses while spending the day with colleagues, industry leaders, and celebrities, all in support of a charity that provides a vital lifeline to our fellow broadcasters when they need it most.
New York, NY – July 14, 2026 — Hubbard | Media That Connects and the Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) are joining forces to host the Morning Show Boot Camp (MSBC) Pre-Game Party for an unforgettable evening of networking, reconnecting, and celebration. For the first time, Hubbard's signature MSBC Pre-Game Party and the Broadcasters Foundation’s popular Media Mixer will unite as one can't-miss event, officially launching the three-day Morning Show Boot Camp conference. The MSBC Pre-Party takes place Wednesday, August 5, from 6pm. to 8pm at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown. Widely regarded as the premier gathering before the conference begins, the event sets the stage for three days of learning, collaboration, and industry connections. The MSBC Pre-Party takes place Wednesday, August 5, from 6pm. to 8pm at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown. Widely regarded as the premier gathering before the conference begins, the event sets the stage for three days of learning, collaboration, and industry connections.
Michael Gelman and Tim Clarke Join the BFOA Board of Directors
If you've ever wondered how the radio landscape has evolved over the decades, and what it takes to lead in such a dynamic industry, Fearless: The Life and Times of a Media Maverick is the book for you. Written by Dan Mason , a legendary broadcasting executive whose career helped shape the very fabric of radio, this compelling memoir offers a front-row seat to more than four decades of industry leadership, innovation, and change. Mason shares candid stories from his time working alongside iconic figures in radio and media, reflecting on the challenges of navigating a rapidly shifting industry driven by new technology, evolving tastes, and the relentless push for ratings. From humble beginnings to the highest levels of broadcasting, Fearless is a rich and entertaining look at the culture of music, storytelling, and what it truly means to lead with conviction. This book is not just a career retrospective, it's a celebration of radio's enduring power and the people who gave it a voice. BFOA Chairman, Scott Herman , calls Mason, "One of the greatest visionaries in the history of radio!" Fearless is available now, and profits from sales benefit the BFOA. Your purchase supports a great cause while treating yourself to a fantastic read.
Industry-Wide Campaign on Thursday, June 25 Calls on Radio and Television Professionals to Help Colleagues Facing Critical Illness or Disaster New York, NY - June 2, 2026 - The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) announced today that its annual BFOA Giving Day will take place on Thursday, June 25, rallying the broadcast industry for a one-day fundraising effort to provide critical financial assistance to radio and television professionals facing acute hardship due to catastrophic illness, disaster, or other life-altering circumstances. The BFOA has achieved the highest scores from two independent organizations that track commitment to accountability and impact for 501(c)(3) charities: a Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid and a 100% Give With Confidence Score and a Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator.
Industry Leaders, Rising Professionals, Legendary Broadcasters, and Live Music Come Together for One of BFOA’s Networking Events New York, NY – May 27, 2026 – The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) will bring the industry together once again for its highly anticipated Media Mixer -– an outreach event in support of the BFOA’s charitable mission -- on Thursday, June 25, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM ET at the New York City studios of iHeartMedia, located at 125 West 55th Street. Known as one of broadcasting’s premier networking events, the BFOA Media Mixer connects emerging professionals with some of the most influential executives and personalities in broadcasting, while also shining a spotlight on the BFOA’s charitable mission of providing critical financial assistance to broadcasters in need.
New initiative provides financial assistance to students from broadcast families to support the next generation of broadcasters. New York, NY – May 18, 2026 – The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) today announced the launch of a new needs-based scholarship program created to support broadcast students from broadcast families. The initiative reflects the Broadcasters Foundation growing commitment to strengthening the future of the radio and television industry by investing directly in the next generation of broadcasters. The scholarship program provides financial assistance to qualified college students who are studying broadcasting, can demonstrate financial need, and have a grade-point average of 3.0 or higher.
Achieves “Platinum Seal of Transparency” Plus a “Four Star Rating” and “100% Give With Confidence” Score New York, NY – April 2, 2026 – It is with great pride that the Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) announces it has received the highest scores from two independent organizations that track commitment to accountability and impact for 501(c)(3) charities: a Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid, a 100% Give With Confidence Score from Charity Navigator, and a Four-Star Rating, also from Charity Navigator. “Our Board of Directors is comprised of a team of broadcast industry executives who are dedicated to ensuring full transparency and maximum effectiveness from the Broadcasters Foundation,” noted Scott Herman , Chair of the BFOA Board of Directors. “Our goal is to help every broadcaster who qualifies for aid, and we must always have the funds to do so.”
New York, New York - March 10, 2026 - Broadcasting’s biggest personalities mixed with television stars and media celebrities last evening as the Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) transformed The Plaza in New York City into a who’s who of the industry at its annual gala, drawing nearly 300 leaders from radio and television for a night that celebrated broadcasting excellence while raising funds for colleagues in need. Among the celebrities turning out for the evening were David Lasher of the hit series Blossom and Beverly Hills, 90210; Christine Taylor, film actress, including Dodgeball; Michael Kay, New York Yankees television announcer and ESPN Radio host; Jodi Applegate, journalist and television host seen on MSNBC and NBC; legendary radio personality Scott Shannon, known for his iconic runs at Z100 and WPLJ and as a VH1 television host; Deborah Norville, longtime BFOA Board member and veteran television journalist; Arthur Aidala, prominent attorney and talk show host; Kevin Frazier of Entertainment Tonight; and NBC television personality Willie Geist.
New York, NY – February 25, 2026 – The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA), the charity that provides financial aid to broadcasters in critical need from illness or disaster, has announced Natasha Verma of FOX 5, as the host of this year’s BFOA Gala and Fundraiser, which takes place on Monday, March 9, at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. Verma is the co-anchor of “The 5 O’clock News,” “The 6 O’clock News,” and the “The 10 O’clock News” on WNYW FOX 5. She joined FOX 5 in 2022 from KUSA in Denver, where she was a weekday morning anchor. Earlier in her career, Verma worked as a reporter and anchor for NBC10 in Boston and WBBH in Fort Myers, FL. She began her career as a reporter for News12 The Bronx, New York. “Verma brings a vibrancy and excitement to our evening,” stated Tim McCarthy , President of the Broadcasters Foundation. “The Annual Gala is our biggest fundraiser, and the money is needed more than ever. The number of requests for aid goes up every year. That means more broadcasters than ever before are aware of our mission and we must answer their cry for help.” A cancer survivor, Verma understands first-hand the difficulties – physical, mental, and financial – that can add to the struggle of fighting off a debilitating disease.
New York, NY – February 23, 2026 – The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) is proud to announce the 2026 recipients of the Leadership Awards, Lowry Mays Excellence in Broadcasting Award, and Chairman’s Award . The awards honor some of the biggest names and most influential leaders in broadcasting. The honorees will be presented with their award at the BFOA Annual Breakfast , Wednesday, April 22, at 7 am, in the Beethoven Room of The Encore Resort during the NAB Show in Las Vegas. The 2026 Leadership Award honorees are: Heather Cohen , President, The Weiss Agency April Carty-Sipp , Executive Vice President, Industry Affairs at NAB Michael J. Hayes , President, Hearst Television Mike Hulvey , President & Chief Executive Officer, Radio Advertising Bureau Chad Matthews , President, ABC-Owned Television Stations Alissa Pollack , Executive Vice President, Global Music Marketing, iHeartMedia
“I am deeply honored to receive the Philip J. Lombardo Spirit Award from the Broadcasters Foundation of America,” said Liebre. “The work this charity does to support members of the broadcasting community during times of need is truly inspiring. I am grateful to be associated with a mission that reflects compassion, service, and meaningful impact to our broadcast colleagues when they need it the most.” “Ernest’s character, generosity, and commitment to service meant a great deal to Phil,” said Ray Cole , a member of the Board of Directors of the BFOA, and former COO of Citadel Communications where he worked closely with Lombardo for many years. “Phil believed deeply in recognizing people who quietly but consistently show up for others, and Ernest embodies that same spirit in every way. Prior to joining CAPTRUST, Liebre founded Cambridge Financial Services, demonstrating an entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to client-focused financial solutions. Earlier in his career, he worked in risk management at Revlon and FMC Corporation. His accolades include Cadaret Grant Top Adviser six years in a row, and the NAPA Top DC Advisor Teams Award in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2024. The Philip J. Lombardo Spirit Award honors an individual or company that embodies generosity, integrity, and commitment to the mission of the Broadcasters Foundation, which provides critical financial aid to broadcasters in need due to debilitating illness or disaster. As previously announced, this year’s BFOA Gala will also honor VERSANT CEO and Former Chair of NBCUniversal Media Group Mark Lazarus with the Golden Mic Award, Judge Judy Sheindlin with the Edward F. McLaughlin Lifetime Achievement Award, and Stephen A. Smith with the inaugural Broadcast Personality of the Year Award. To purchase tickets to the Broadcasters Foundation Gala, please click here . For more information about the Broadcasters Foundation, including how to apply for aid or make a donation, visit www.broadcastersfoundation.org , or contact 212-373-8250 or info@thebfoa.org . About the Broadcasters Foundation of America: www.broadcastersfoundation.org The mission of the Broadcasters Foundation of America is to improve the quality of life for men and women in the radio and television broadcast profession who find themselves in acute need. The Foundation reaches out across the country to identify and provide an anonymous safety net in cases of critical illness, accident, and other serious misfortune. The Broadcasters Foundation of America is a 501(c)3 Public Charity and has received 4 stars from Charity Navigator, its highest rating, and a Gold Seal of Transparency from Candid/Guidestar. Media Contact: Renee Cassis RC Communications Marketing 646-808-6505 cassis2@msn.com
