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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 13, 2025

NABLF Celebrates the Third Emerson Coleman Fellowship Class

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The NAB Leadership Foundation (NABLF), in partnership with Hearst Television, proudly marked the completion of its third annual Emerson Coleman Fellowship at NAB’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, August 12.

Program fellows gain real-world experience during a summer internship at a local television station where they are immersed in a local programming and production environment. In addition to the onsite training, students attend online classes, complete a capstone project and receive mentorship on professional development.

NABLF congratulates the 2025 Emerson Coleman Fellowship class:

  • McKenzie Curtis, Morgan State University, FOX 5 DC (WTTG)
  • Aria Harrell, University of Miami, NBC 5 (WMAQ)
  • Elsie Mandela, North Carolina A&T State University, WUSA 9 (TEGNA)
  • Joselyn Martinez, University of Central Florida, WLWT 5 (Hearst)
  • Matias Pollak, USC and Bocconi University, FOX 5 New York (WNYW)

“We are very excited about how this program is positively influencing young people to pursue creative careers in the world of broadcasting,” said NABLF President Michelle Duke. “The foundation is also honored to facilitate this program in tribute to Emerson Coleman’s distinguished legacy as a pioneering force in our industry.”

The program was a success with the support of our sponsors: Brooks Pierce, CBS Media Ventures, Comcast NBCUniversal, Debmar-Mercury, Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution, FOX, Hearst Television, Katz Media Group, Locality, Nielsen Foundation, SmithGeiger, Soledad O’Brien and Brad Raymond, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Teen Kids News, Warner Bros. and Weigel Broadcasting Co.

About the Emerson Coleman Fellowship

This program encourages college students to pursue careers in broadcast television programming and production. Its namesake, Emerson Coleman, had a distinguished 32-year career at Hearst Television, serving as senior vice president of programming for 25 years until his retirement in 2022.

About NAB Leadership Foundation

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.

About NAB

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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