The Broadcasters Foundation of America announced the creation of the Lowry Mays Excellence in Broadcasting Award. This new award will salute its namesake, the founder of Clear Channel Communications and a legend in the broadcasting business.
“We are very proud of this award and thank the Clear Channel Foundation and Wiley Rein LLP for their generous contribution to the Foundation’s Guardian Fund in Lowry Mays’ honor. This award will honor a broadcaster every year whose work exemplifies excellence in broadcasting, and all that goes with it: innovation, community service, advocacy and entrepreneurship,” said Philip J. Lombardo, Chairman of the Foundation’s Board.
The first recipient will be named at the Foundation Breakfast during the National Association of Broadcasters spring convention in Las Vegas.
“I am humbled and honored by this tremendous gesture. But, more importantly, I invite all broadcasters, no matter how long they’ve been in this great business, to contribute to the Broadcasters Foundation of America so it can continue its great work in helping others in the industry who have run upon difficult times,” said Lowry Mays.
Mays called on all broadcasters to donate to the Foundation and for their employers to match those donated funds. “We will be grateful for whatever contribution you can make, however modest,” he said. “I hope donating to the Broadcasters Foundation of America will become a tradition for all generations of broadcasters.
“Lowry brings out the best in people, and makes sure that every employee is engaged to deliver the most he or she possibly can, both to the company and to the communities they serve. This award symbolizes the inspiration that Lowry brings to the business,” said Clear Channel CEO Mark Mays, Lowry’s son.
“Some say excellence is achieved when ‘value and virtue’ intersect. That is the epitome of Lowry Mays’ life, and we couldn’t be more proud than to partner with the Clear Channel Foundation to make the Lowry Mays Excellence in Broadcasting Award possible,” said Wiley Rein LLP partner and Foundation director Dick Bodorff. He pointed out that the Foundation helps when broadcasters or their families encounter unexpected tragedy or hardship. “It’s an important mission, and something we should all commit ourselves to,” Bodorff added.
To nominate a broadcaster for the Lowry Mays Excellence in Broadcasting award, please contact Jim Thompson at the Foundation. The nominations will be open until February 15, 2010. The Foundation Board of Directors will select the award winner. Thompson can be reached at 212-373-8250 or [email protected].
RBR-TVBR observation: The Broadcasters Foundation of America is a great organization. We would second Lowry’s suggestion that every broadcaster should step up to the plate and make a donation to the organization. Whether you’re a CEO writing a big check, or a rank and file employee, every contribution helps people who’ve also been broadcasters, but have fallen on tough times.
