NABLF Announces 2026 Broadcast Leadership Training Award Winners

Why It Matters

Recognizing top leaders underscores the broadcast industry's commitment to cultivating diverse talent and reinforces the value of structured leadership training for future innovators.

Key Takeaways

• Lori Waldon leads Hearst’s KOAT‑TV, BLT class of 2016.
• Barbara Kreisman retired FCC Video Division chief, 25‑year BLT supporter.
• Awards highlight women’s impact in broadcast leadership.
• NABLF promotes next‑gen talent via 2027 BLT cohort deadline.
• Awards presented at 2026 NAB Show in Las Vegas.

Pulse Analysis

The NAB Leadership Foundation’s Broadcast Leadership Training (BLT) program has become a cornerstone for grooming senior talent in television and radio. By pairing seasoned executives with emerging professionals, BLT creates a pipeline that addresses the industry’s evolving technological and regulatory challenges. The annual awards ceremony, held at the NAB Show, not only celebrates individual achievement but also signals the program’s growing influence on corporate culture across the broadcast sector.

Lori Waldon’s receipt of the Diane Sutter Shooting Star Award highlights how a hands‑on newsroom leader can translate local audience insight into broader strategic growth. As KOAT‑TV’s president and general manager, Waldon has championed collaborative decision‑making and mentorship, hallmarks of the BLT curriculum. Barbara Kreisman’s BLT Champion Award reflects a half‑century of advocacy within the Federal Communications Commission, where she steered policy discussions that directly impacted broadcast standards. Their recognitions reinforce the narrative that effective leadership in media hinges on both operational excellence and a commitment to nurturing future talent.

Looking ahead, NABLF’s call for applications to the 2027 BLT cohort underscores a strategic push to diversify the talent pool as the industry confronts streaming competition and AI‑driven content creation. Prospective participants gain access to a network of alumni, hands‑on workshops, and executive mentorship that can accelerate career trajectories. For broadcasters seeking to stay competitive, investing in programs like BLT is increasingly seen as a critical differentiator, ensuring that the next generation of leaders is equipped to navigate rapid market shifts.