American Women in Radio and Television Inc.

The organization American Women in Radio and Television (AWRT) was formed in 1951 as a response to the National Association of Broadcasters's (NAB) decision to dissolve its women's division, the Association of Women Broadcasters. Edythe Meserand would serve as AWRT's first president.

With a stated mission to "advance the impact of women in the electronic media and allied fields by educating, advocating, and acting as a resource to our members and the industry," AWRT, as of 2004, has over 30 regional chapters throughout the country and a national membership of over 2,000.

Along with serving as an advocate for women in the broadcasting and cable industries, AWRT also provides job information services, professional development programs and works to provide networking opportunities for its members.

Since 1953, AWRT has staged a yearly national convention consisting of workshops, panel discussions and other events for its members. The AWRT has also over the years administered various awards including for may years the Silver Satellite Award for career achievement. Previous recipients have included Betty White, Marlo Thomas, Bob Hope, Marlene Sanders, and Mary Tyler Moore, among others.

In 1960, AWRT formed its Educational Foundation, the first broadcasting organization to ever do so. The Foundation sponsors educational programs, charitable activities, and scholarships. Its stated purpose is to "Use the media to create change through charitable, educational, and literary initiatives." Since 1975, the Foundation has presented its annual Gracie Allen Awards. The "Gracies" were created to recognize "positive and realistic portrayal of women in entertainment, commercials, news, features and other programs."

American Women in Radio and Television's headquarters is located in McLean, Virginia.

From the guide to the American Women in Radio and Television (AWRT) records, 1947-1999 and undated, 1958-1970, (University of Maryland Libraries)