News Release
News Release
News Release
News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 30, 2023
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Alex Siciliano






NAB Leadership Foundation Announces Host and Musical Performer for Celebration of Service to America Awards

“GMA” Saturday and Sunday co-anchor and ABC News correspondent Gio Benitez to host awards ceremony

Musician and songwriter Nelson Cade III to perform during gala

Mike McCain

Gio Benitez

WASHINGTON, DC -- The National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) today announced award-winning ABC News broadcaster Gio Benitez as the host of the 2023 Celebration of Service to America Awards. The ceremony, which honors broadcasters for their outstanding commitment to public service, will be held in Washington, D.C. on June 6 at The Anthem.

Benitez co-anchors “Good Morning America” Saturday and Sunday and serves as ABC News’ transportation correspondent. He is an Emmy-winning reporter, covering stories such as the Pulse nightclub shooting, El Chapo’s underground escape from a Mexican prison and the Boston Marathon bombing.

Prior to his tenure at ABC, Benitez was a reporter and investigative producer at WFOR-TV in Miami. In June 2009, Benitez became the first-ever reporter to shoot a TV story entirely on an iPhone. After devastating earthquakes hit Haiti in 2010, Benitez traveled to the country to cover relief efforts. His return flight to Miami turned into a rescue mission as he traveled with injured Haitian evacuees.

Mike McCain

Nelson Cade III

Musical guest Nelson Cade III, known for his raspy baritone voice and extensive repertoire, will perform during the ceremony and sing the National Anthem. Cade competed on NBC’s "The Voice" and was a finalist on John Legend’s team. He has completed two nationwide tours and has written music for Mary J. Blige and Bailey Coats.

NABLF previously announced station and broadcast group Celebration of Service to America Award winners, as well as the Corporate Leadership Award recipient, JP Morgan Chase.

Qualified press interested in covering the Celebration of Service to America Awards should contact Grace Whaley. For more information about the awards and event, visit servicetoamerica.org.

About NAB Leadership Foundation

The National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (formerly the NAB Education Foundation) rebranded in 2018 in recognition of its role in developing broadcasting’s future leaders. The Foundation is dedicated to advancing the industry through leadership, diversity and community service. Learn more at www.nabfoundation.org.

About NAB

The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America's broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at www.nab.org.