BFOA Honors Broadcasters During Golden Mic Gala

The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) honored three distinguished industry leaders at its annual Golden Mic Award Gala on Monday night, at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. 

This black-tie fundraiser is the organization’s largest annual event, aimed at raising funds to support broadcasters facing financial hardship due to illness, tragedy, or other emergencies. The 2025 honorees include former CBS Radio President Dan Mason, Scripps Sports President Brian Lawlor, and Katz Media Group, each recognized for their significant contributions to the broadcasting industry and their support for the BFOA’s mission.

Dan Mason – Edward F. McLaughlin Lifetime Achievement Award

Dan Mason, a veteran broadcast executive, received the 2025 Edward F. McLaughlin Lifetime Achievement Award, which celebrates a broadcaster’s invaluable contributions to the radio and television industry. Mason’s career spans decades, most notably as President of CBS Radio from 1995 to 2002 and CEO from 2007 to 2015. During his tenure, he oversaw 117 stations across 26 markets, driving growth through innovative formats, major market acquisitions, and the expansion of CBS Radio’s digital presence with streaming platforms and mobile apps. 

He played a key role in integrating major radio groups like CBS, Group W, Infinity Radio, and American Radio Systems, enhancing operational efficiency and profitability. Before CBS, Mason served as President of Group W Radio at Westinghouse starting in 1993. 

Brian Lawlor – Golden Mic Award

Brian Lawlor, President of Scripps Sports, was awarded the 2025 Golden Mic Award, recognizing his excellence in broadcasting and ongoing service to the community. Lawlor has been instrumental in expanding Scripps’ portfolio, growing it into one of the largest television groups in the U.S. His leadership has also advanced the BFOA’s goals, earning him praise from BFOA Chairman Scott Herman as a “leader in broadcasting” whose hard work makes him an ideal recipient. BFOA President Tim McCarthy echoed this sentiment, calling Lawlor a “highly respected member of the television broadcasting community” and a staunch supporter of the Foundation. Sports journalist Bonnie Bernstein, known for her work with CBS Sports and ESPN, will present the award to Lawlor, highlighting his impact on the television industry.

Katz Media Group – Philip J. Lombardo Spirit Award

Katz Media Group received the inaugural 2025 Philip J. Lombardo Spirit Award, named after the BFOA’s former longtime chairman. This award honors an individual or entity exemplifying dedication and relentless drive to the BFOA’s philanthropic mission. Katz, a major player in media representation, has supported the Foundation’s efforts to assist broadcasters in need. The tribute was led by Ray Cole, former President and COO of Citadel Communications, with Katz CEO Mark Gray accepting the award on behalf of the company. This recognition underscores Katz’s commitment to the broadcasting community and its alignment with the BFOA’s values.

The gala was emceed by Deborah Norville, a two-time Emmy-winning anchor of Inside Edition and a long-time BFOA Board member, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024. 

The event not only celebrates these leaders but also raises critical funds for the BFOA, which has increased its grant-making from $400,000 in 2007 to nearly $2 million in 2024. BFOA President Tim McCarthy emphasized the dual purpose of the evening: honoring industry giants while keeping focus on aiding struggling broadcasters.