Inaugural NABLF Media Sales Academy Class Unveiled

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The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Leadership Foundation has finalized the roster for its inaugural class of the Media Sales Academy. Curriculum for the program was developed in collaboration with the Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB) and the Television Bureau of Advertising (TVB).


The redesigned program, previously known as the Media Sales Institute, brings entry-level sales talent to the broadcast industry by providing college upperclassmen the tools, resources and connections needed to launch a media career and stay ahead of the competition. Participation is free for college-level sophomores, juniors and seniors.

The incoming 2019-2020 Media Sales Academy class comprises students from a wide range of academic disciplines and majors, including advertising, broadcasting, education, media production and sociology.

“We have made significant enhancements to this important program, such as incorporating both online and in-person sessions,” said Michelle Duke, president of the NAB Leadership Foundation. “Together with our partners, we designed the Media Sales Academy to fully engage students and broadcasters throughout the education and recruitment process.”

The year-long program features an exclusive career fair and equips students with the applicable skills and exposure to succeed in the competitive field of media sales. New this year, students are paired with an established mentor during the program. One-on-one mentoring allows industry leaders to offer professional guidance and creates networking opportunities beyond graduation.

“TV stations offer marketers a wide-range of linear and digital local advertising opportunities to reach and influence consumers,” said Steve Lanzano, TVB president and CEO. “As local advertising has become more complex, the need for knowledgeable, skilled and professional media sales executives is greater than ever. TVB is pleased to support NABLF’s Media Sales Academy and to assist in training its outstanding students.”

“Recruiting new talent to broadcast radio sales is a priority for radio,” said RAB President and CEO Erica Farber. “RAB is squarely focused on training and retaining the next generation of radio professionals. Our partnership with the Media Sales Academy enables us to do so in a unified voice and showcase the vast opportunity a career in radio sales affords young people.”


The Leadership Foundation is currently accepting mentor applications for the 2019-2020 Media Sales Academy class. Industry leaders with a diverse career background are encouraged to contact Program Coordinator Paloma Johnson-Walker.