New York, NY – January 6, 2021 – The International Radio and Television Society Foundation (IRTS), a charitable organization dedicated to building the next generation of media leaders and increasing diversity, today announced Leo MacCourtney has been elected to Chairman.
A well-respected media veteran, MacCourtney is President of Katz Television Group, the nation’s leading television advertising sales organization, driving growth for its more than 800 television station partners and their digital extensions. MacCourtney has served for over 25 years as an active IRTS board member in various roles, including the finance committee, Vice-Chairman, and now Chairman.
As Chairman, MacCourtney is dedicated to the IRTS mission of bringing together the wisdom of yesterday’s founders, the power of today’s leaders, and the promise of tomorrow’s young professionals to make sure that the future in media accurately reflects the diverse demographic of today’s media consumers. To achieve this, IRTS provides education and direct industry access through a series of academic programs, major events, and mentorship pipelines.
“IRTS provides young people across the nation with meaningful ways to work and connect with high-level executives and companies in the media industry,” said MacCourtney. “I’m extremely proud to help lead IRTS in its mission to support and mentor the next generation of media leaders with diversity at the core.”
During his career, MacCourtney has served as Chairman of the Television Bureau of Advertising. He also serves on boards of the Emma Bowen Foundation, the Washington Media Scholars Foundation and is the Treasurer for the Broadcasters Foundation of America.
“We are thrilled to welcome a new Board Chairman who has already played a key role in the success of IRTS,” said IRTS President and CEO Joyce Tudryn. “Leo’s unprecedented participation in our programs, unwavering dedication to our mission, and wise counsel over the years perfectly position us to expand upon the program growth achieved during the tenure of outgoing Chair Debra O’Connell, President of Networks at Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution. We are honored to now have Leo’s leadership at the helm!”
IRTS’s academic programs include the Summer Fellowship Program, Multicultural Career Workshop, Broadcast Sales Associate Program, and Faculty/Industry Seminar.
To learn more, visit: www.irtsfoundation.org
About IRTS:
The IRTS Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charity, which brings together the wisdom and power of today’s leaders to train and educate the next generation of media and communication professionals through its many educational programs and diversity initiatives.
About Katz Television Group:
Katz Television Group is America’s leading television sales organization serving as the trusted sales partner to nearly 80 broadcast companies, including nearly 800 television stations and their digital platform extension. As the leading expert in television advertising solutions, Katz uses its unparalleled national reach to help advertisers connect with local audiences at scale and with impact. The company is dedicated to using the latest technology, data and strategic insights to create custom campaigns that target advertisers’ needs and deliver results in markets across the country. Katz Television Group is based in New York City with ten regional offices nationwide.