The unique, multicultural business communities in Chicago are vital components that keep the Windy City running. Elevating the purpose-driven stories from diverse voices within its walls and alleyways takes commitment, partnership and trust.
Championing the National Association of Black Journalists
During the 2024 National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Convention in Chicago, Comcast hosted a session titled “Champions of Change: A Fireside Chat on Black Media, Building Trust, and Combatting Misinformation.” Panelists included Joy Reid, national correspondent for MSNBC and host of The ReidOut Podcast, Rachel Scott, senior congressional correspondent for ABC News, Errol Barnett, anchor and national correspondent for CBS News and Leroy Chapman, editor-in-chief of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, who moderated the critical conversation on sharing purpose-driven stories and embodying the spirit of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.
Prior to passing the reins over to the distinguished media panel, the session’s opening remarks and welcome were provided by Comcast Central Division’s Senior Vice President of Division Communications, Sophia Marshall.
Following Comcast’s NABJ panel, the organization invited local Chicago and national journalists downtown for a “Champions of Change” dinner reception, recognizing their ongoing contributions to communities across the nation. The gathering celebrated Black and multicultural media members and the important work of diverse storytelling.
Champions of Change Chicago brought together more than 30 prominent editors, radio hosts and reporters. A few notable media outlets in attendance included NBC News, CNN, Forbes, Essence Magazine, BOSSIP, Reuters and local Chicago reporters from CW26, Rolling Out, Midwest Broadcasting and others.
Champions of Conversation
Developing deeper, more genuine relationships and connections in the cities and communities Comcast serves, as well as expressing gratitude to the Black and multicultural media for their partnership in amplifying Comcast’s voices and impact are long-term goals Champions of Change helps achieve.
“Media, in particular today, Black media, serves a key role as we work to connect with important audiences across our large footprint in our Central Division, including our Big South, Florida, Heartland and Chicago regions,” said Marshall.
The evening celebration brought together Comcast leaders from across the company including Chris Smith, Senior Vice President for Comcast’s Chicago Region. Additional participants included Chris Winton, Senior Vice President – Human Resources, Shannon Dulin, Senior Director – Community Impact, Katie Klein, Comcast Business Vice President – Marketing and Lisette Martinez, Vice President – Sales & Marketing, too joined the open dialogue on collaboration.
![[Left to right] Janelle Richards and Aaron Gilchrist of NBC News pictured with Katie Klein Comcast Business Vice President – Marketing, and Shannon Dulin, Senior Director – Community Impact of Comcast Central Division.](https://chicago.comcast.com/wp-content/smush-webp/sites/11/2024/08/image-1-1024x683.jpeg.webp)
Smith thanked guests for attending the event and for their interest in learning about the different ways the tech leader creates economic opportunity, powers connectivity and touches people’s lives across region.
“At our core, we are a connectivity company transforming lives one connection at a time,” said Smith. “Purpose is at the center of everything we do and the significance of amplifying crucial voices through platforms like yours is often overlooked.”
Comcast’s community investments like Project UP, innovative products like NOW TV Latino and volunteer outreach like Team UP came up in the conversation. Other topics of interest included combating misinformation, the excitement of the Olympic games viewing experience leveraging Peacock and the use of artificial intelligence.
Munson Steed, CEO of Rolling Out, expressed his gratitude for Champions of Change and shared how refreshing it was to learn about Comcast’s dedication to finding purpose within our communities.
Diverse thinking and inclusive cultures are key ingredients for a winning team. Comcast is a connected culture, focused on being United, Bold and Winning in our words and actions; the Comcast powered session at the 2024 NABJ Convention and Champions of Change dinner helped bring many strong partners to the table to continue carrying the torch.
Comcast’s Investment in Chicago
Comcast is committed to the communities it serves – which in Chicago, includes all 77 city neighborhoods. Since 2011, the company has invested $191 million in cash and in-kind donations to community-based organizations in Chicago. For more information on Comcast’s community impact initiatives in Chicago, click here.
