Washington, D.C. – The National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) honored outstanding local broadcasters, community leaders and public servants during the 2026 Celebration of Service to America Awards on June 9, recognizing local television and radio stations, broadcast groups and industry leaders whose commitment to service extends far beyond the airwaves.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the John D. Dingell, Jr. Award for Excellence to Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) for their bipartisan leadership in advancing the TAKE IT DOWN Act, which was signed into law in May 2025. The legislation, cosponsored by more than 60 bipartisan lawmakers in the House and Senate, protects individuals from the nonconsensual online distribution of intimate images, including both authentic and AI-generated content, and requires certain online platforms to remove such material promptly after notification. The John D. Dingell, Jr. Award recognizes members of Congress who exemplify the late congressman’s dedication to public service and bipartisan collaboration and was presented by his wife, Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.).
"Celebration of Service to America honorees demonstrate the extraordinary impact broadcasters have in communities across the country every day," said NAB Leadership Foundation President Michelle Duke. "We are proud to recognize both the local stations serving their audiences in times of need and the public leaders whose bipartisan efforts are making a meaningful difference in people's lives."
The evening brought together leaders from broadcasting, government, business and the nonprofit sector. Distinguished guests included Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La.), House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.), Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Rep. Troy Carter (D-La.), Rep. Jennifer McClellan (D-Va.), Rep. Deborah Ross (D-N.C.), Rep. Russ Fulcher (R-Idaho) and New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno.
NABLF also honored Kidde, a leading manufacturer of residential fire and life safety products, as the recipient of its prestigious Corporate Leadership Award for its commitment to supporting communities and helping keep people safe. Philanthropist and businesswoman Gayle Benson was presented with the Leadership Award – the foundation’s highest honor – for her exceptional civic and humanitarian contributions.
Additional participants and guests included the host for the evening, WUSA9 news anchor Lesli Foster; WTOP news anchor Shawn Anderson; WRC-TV News4 Washington anchor and community reporter Molette Green; WJLA Washington news anchor Megan Clarke; FOX 5 LIVE ZONE host and WPGC 95.5 news director Guy Lambert; iHeart’s Hot99.5 on-air host Nick Gomez, and ABC’s “Home For Good” host, executive producer and creator Art Edmonds.
The ceremony opened with the presentation of the colors by the United States Space Force Color Guard and a performance of the national anthem by Kendyll Melton, a senior at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Washington, D.C. The program concluded on a high note with a show-stopping performance by Grammy Award-winning music icon Gloria Gaynor, who energized the audience with several of her timeless hits before bringing the crowd to its feet with her legendary song, “I Will Survive.”
The Celebration of Service to America Awards are presented annually by the NAB Leadership Foundation and highlight the essential role local broadcasters play in informing, protecting and serving their communities.
The mission of the Foundation is to develop leaders, prepare individuals for careers in broadcasting and recognize the community impact of local television and radio stations. Learn more at nabfoundation.org.
The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America's broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at nab.org.
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