By Victoria Green
NASHVILLE, TN — Headliners and Heroes Awards was a night to remember. The purpose of the event was to raise funds to support scholarships for students majoring in journalism and communications, at area colleges and universities.
The Nashville Chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists, family and friends gathered at the elegant Lighthouse on the Lake. Vicki Yates, retired NewsChannel 5 anchor and Kenny Smoov VP Urban Formats for Cumulus Media, presented awards in multiple categories with entertainment provided by DJ Victor Chatman.
The Nashville Chapter of NABJ honored seven recipients that have made a significant impact in the community. To everyone that was honored we say “Thank You.”
• Trailblazer Award
Ernie Allen, news director and talk show Host of Let’s Talk Radio Show, WQQK 92.1 FM
• Media Excellence Award
Tuwanda Coleman, Talk of the Town producer and on-air personality, WTVF-TV, News Channel 5
• Community Service Award
Rhea Kinnard, president/CEO Kinnard & Associates
• Outstanding Journalist Award
Justin McFarland, morning news reporter, WZTV-TV Fox 17 News
• President’s Award
Presented posthumously to Getahn Ward, former business reporter, The Tennessean, former Parliamentarian, and Scholarship Chair NABJ Nashville
• Lifetime Achievement Award
Vicki Yates, retired anchor, WTVF-TV NewsChannel 5
• Impact Award
Dr. Sybril Brown, professor of Journalism, Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Belmont University
“Headliners and Heroes’ was more than just an event; it was a celebration of excellence, a testament to the power of storytelling, and a commitment to empowering the next generation of communicators.
“We came together to honor outstanding achievements and contributions to journalism and our community, and I’m immensely proud of what we achieved. This event showcased the incredible talent and dedication within our Nashville NABJ family, and I’m grateful to everyone who made it possible. Together, we’re shaping the future of media and communication.” said Jason Luntz, president, Nashville Chapter NABJ.
