Debra L. Lee to be honored as 2019 Woman of Influence on March 20
March 20, 2019 | 11 am - 2 pm | NY Marriott Marquis
Trailblazing Programmer and Media Executive Debra L. Lee Named as the 2019 MCN Woman of Influence
DEBRA. L LEE Former Chairman & CEO Emeritus, BET Networks
With a trailblazing career spanning over three decades, Debra L. Lee is one of the most influential female voices in the entertainment industry. Up until May 2018, she served as the Chairman & CEO of BET Networks, a leading provider of entertainment for the African-American audience and consumers of black culture globally.
During her tenure, Lee helmed BET's reinvigorated approach to corporate philanthropy and authentic programming that led to hits such as The New Edition Story, Being Mary Jane, The BET Awards, Black Girls Rock! and BET Honors, and she launched and rebranded the 24-hour network that is now BET Her, designed for black women. She's earned the industry's highest accolades, including the Distinguished Leadership Vanguard Award by the National Cable & Telecommunications Association and induction into the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame.
In February 2017, the GRAMMY Organization recognized Lee with the Salute To Industry Icons Award on behalf of her major contributions to American music and culture -- the first and only woman to receive that honor.
For her many contributions to media, entrepreneurship and women in the industry, Multichannel News is proud to honor Debra L. Lee the 2019 Woman of Influence.