NASHVILLE, TN — The Nashville Chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists will present its signature event, “Headliners and Heroes” to raise scholarship funds for college students and recognize media professionals who have made outstanding contributions in the field of journalism and communication.
The event will be held Sunday, Nov. 5 from 3-6 p.m. located at the Lighthouse on the Lake, 133 Sanders Ferry Road in Hendersonville, Tennessee, and feature special guests, entertainment, and a brief recognition ceremony at 4 p.m.
Nashville NABJ will honor five outstanding journalists and communication professionals recognizing their years of work and service to the industry and community. Among the honorees will be a posthumous salute to Getahn Ward, a long-time officer and member of Nashville NABJ and business reporter for The Tennessean.
“We are honored to recognize the work of these individuals and their impact on the industry and our community,” said Jason Luntz, Nashville NABJ president. “We look forward to celebrating our 2023 Headliners and Heroes recipients Nov. 5.”
This year’s Headliners and Heroes Award recipients are:
• Ernie Allen, “Let’s Talk” radio host and news director for WQQK-FM 92.1 – “Trailblazer Award”
• Tuwanda Coleman, Talk of the Town producer and on-air personality – “Media Excellence Award”
• Rhea Kinnard, president/CEO of Kinnard & Associates – “Community Service Award”
• Justin McFarland, Morning Reporter, Fox 17 News – “Outstanding Journalist Award”
• Getahn Ward, former Business Reporter, The Tennessean – “President’s Award” (posthumously)
“Black journalists and communicators are critical advocates in keeping our communities informed,” said Dr. Syb Brown, 2023 Headliners and Heroes co-chair and Belmont University professor. “Now, more than ever, our stories must be told and shared to preserve our history for future generations. This event is a fundraiser which allows us to continue supporting the next generation of journalists with scholarships and mentoring opportunities, in addition to acknowledging exceptional media professionals.”
The 2023 Headliners and Heroes Awards sponsors include Lighthouse on the Lake, Gannett, Scripps Howard, Andrews Transportation Group, and Victor Chatman Entertainment.
Follow the hashtag #NABJNashH&H23 to stay updated on event information or visit NashvilleNABJ.org.
The Nashville Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) is among several NABJ chapters worldwide who provide quality programs, services, and advocates on behalf of Black journalists. The chapter’s membership is made up of journalists, students and media-related professionals and offers awareness about job opportunities, plans conferences and seminars, and hosts special events.
Members represent diverse media industries, including print, television, online/digital, literary, public relations, public affairs, and media relations. The chapter hold monthly meetings. Those who wish to become members or would like more information, may visit www.nashvillenabj.org.