Foundation Raises $1.5M For Diversity In Cable
WASHINGTON - The Walter Kaitz Foundation's 27th Annual Fundraising Dinner, held in New York City, raised more than $1.5 million for programs promoting diversity in the cable industry. U.S. Representative Doris Matusi (D-CA 5th District) was presented with the Diversity Advocate Award, an honor given to an individual outside of the cable industry who has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to diversity. Discovery Communications received the Diversity Champion Award, an honor bestowed on individuals or organizations that act as catalysts for diversity within their respective organizations, or throughout the industry. The dinner's co-chairs, Jerry Kent, Chairman & CEO of Suddenlink Communications, and Ken Lowe, Chairman, President & CEO of Scripps Networks Interactive, presented the honorees their awards. John Gidding, host of HGTV's Curb Appeal: The Block and renowned architect and designer, hosted last night's festivities. Gidding appeared courtesy of Scripps Networks. More than 1,100 cable executives attended the dinner at the Hilton New York. "This annual event not only supports the Foundation's efforts to advance the contributions of women and people of color, but also celebrates diversity within the cable industry," said David Porter, Executive Director of the Walter Kaitz Foundation. "It was wonderful that the dinner could return to New York City and also exceed last year's fundraising efforts. We are grateful to this year's sponsors, attendees and everyone who helped make this year's event a success." Funds raised from the dinner assist the activities of the Walter Kaitz Foundation's diversity efforts, along with the programs and activities of the Emma L. Bowen Foundation, the National Association for Multi-ethnicity in Communications (NAMIC), and Women in Cable Telecommunications (WICT). The initiatives of these organizations focus on leadership and professional development, career coaching, skills training, mentoring, and professional internships.
