Diversity in Media Distinguished Leadership Award

In conjunction with the annual Robert G. McGruder Distinguished Guest Lecture, Kent State honors one individual who has demonstrated excellence in diversity and media on a local level with the Diversity in Media Distinguished Leadership Award.

The following individuals have received this award:

Note: Job titles listed indicate the award recipient's position when honored.

• 2022 - Maurice Newman, president of NorthCoast Media and FilmGroup Inc.
• 2018 - Gene Shelton, Professor, Kent State University
• 2016 - Phillip Morris, columnist, Plain Dealer
• 2015 - Lillian Pyles, Ohio-based casting director
• 2014 - Constance D. Harper, publisher and editor-in-chief, Call & Post 
• 2013 - Betty Lin-Fisher, business and consumer reporter, Akron Beacon Journal
• 2012 - Lydia Esparra, reporter, Channel 19 News
• 2010 - Rochelle Riley, columnist, Detroit Free Press
• 2008 - Ramona Robinson, anchor, WKYC Channel 3
• 2007 - Susan Goldberg, editor, Plain Dealer
• 2006 - Wayne Dawson, anchor, Fox8 Cleveland