AWM Names 2026 Gracies Leadership Awards Honorees

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, September 23, 2026 | 12:05pm CT

Alliance for Women in Media (AWM)

The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) has announced the honorees for the 2026 Gracies Leadership Awards, set for November 16 at Tribeca 360° in New York City.

Zenia Mucha, Chief Brand and Communications Officer at TikTok, will receive the inaugural Gracies Vanguard Award. The new honor recognizes individuals whose foresight and ability to anticipate change help shape the future of media and its audiences.

Kristen Welch, Chief Financial and Operations Officer at Illustrative Mathematics, will receive the AWM Legacy Leadership Award, recognizing her longtime commitment to AWM and its mission of advancing women in media.

Also being honored for their leadership and accomplishments are Marilu Galvez, General Manager of ABC7/WABC-TV; Tina Perry, President of OWN TV Network & OTT Streaming; Julie Talbott, President of Premiere Networks; and Erin Underhill, President of Universal Television.

"The women we honor through the Gracies Leadership Awards have not only achieved extraordinary success in their own careers, they have helped shape the future of media through their vision, leadership and commitment to excellence," said AWM President Becky Brooks.

Brooks noted that AWM is celebrating its 75th anniversary and said this year's honorees have helped open doors, foster innovation and inspire the next generation of industry leaders.

The event will also spotlight emerging media professionals through the AWM Foundation Student Fellowships, which give female students pursuing careers in journalism, broadcasting, digital media, communications, content creation and production an opportunity to attend the luncheon and meet industry leaders. Applications will be accepted September 29 through October 16.

The luncheon will additionally recognize the recipient of the 2026 AWM Foundation/NCTA - The Internet & Television Association Student Scholarship. Applications for the scholarship are open through September 25.