The WICT Network Pulse: February Issue | | |
Given the level of interest and internal nomination timelines, we want to ensure prospective participants and their organizations have adequate time to thoughtfully complete the process.
The Betsy Magness Leadership Institute (BMLI) remains a selective, cohort-based leadership experience designed for director and VP-level leaders ready to broaden perspective and strengthen strategic impact.
If you have been considering applying or nominating someone, we encourage you to take advantage of this additional opportunity. Apply today!
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Application Deadline
The deadline to apply is Wednesday, March 4, 2026. For more information or to apply online, please visit wict.org/bmli-application.
Tuition
Tuition covers program costs including materials and daytime meals for four in-person sessions and 2 virtual sessions. Travel, hotel and dinners are the responsibility of participants.
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$20,500 for members
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$20,830 for non-members (rate includes membership with The WICT Network for eligible participants)
Most participants secure employer sponsorship for all or part of their tuition; if helpful, we can provide supporting information to share with your organization.
Don't miss this opportunity to apply for the upcoming BMLI program year!
| For answers to your questions, visit the BMLI FAQ page or contact Jason Brown at jbrown@wict.org. | | |
Leadership Takes Center Stage
at the Signature Awards Luncheon
Tuesday, May 12, 2026 | Cipriani 42nd Street, NYC
Tables Available Now
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Certain gatherings go beyond celebration. They unite the voices and vision that define the standard of an entire industry.
On Tuesday, May 12, The WICT Network will convene leaders in New York City for the Signature Awards Luncheon at Cipriani 42nd Street.
Secure your table and join the luncheon in style! Table sponsorship offers a front-row seat to connect with industry influencers while showcasing your organization’s commitment to advancing professionals in all facets of media, entertainment and technology.
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This is where we honor the women who are setting the pace and raising the bar of excellence. From seasoned executives to rising talent, the Woman of the Year and Woman to Watch awards spotlight those making a lasting impact.
Know a woman whose leadership deserves the spotlight? Submit your nomination by Friday, February 27, 2026. More information below!
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Last year’s luncheon welcomed more than 500 leaders from across the industry. We hope you and your colleagues will join us on Tuesday, May 12 for another powerful and inspiring event!
Tables and sponsorship packages are limited and tend to sell out quickly, so early reservations are encouraged.
Interested in sponsoring more than a table? Please contact Cindy Key at ckey@wict.org.
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The WICT Network is still accepting nominations for the 2026 Women of the Year & Women to Watch Awards, but the deadline is approaching quickly! Submit your nominees by Friday, February 27.
These prestigious awards will be presented at The WICT Network Signature Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, May 12 at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City. This annual gathering celebrates extraordinary professionals whose leadership is shaping the future across the media, entertainment and technology industries.
Visit our website for more information about the award criteria, and follow these links to submit nominations:
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Click here to submit a nomination for the Woman of the Year.
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Click here to submit a nomination for the Woman to Watch.
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Nomination deadline: Friday, February 27, 2026, at 5:00 pm (Eastern).
Woman of the Year Award: The Woman of the Year Award is bestowed on individuals who have made significant contributions to their company and the overall industry. They are proven leaders and assets who show great resolve to help others along their path.
Woman to Watch Award: The Woman to Watch Award honors individuals who show tremendous success and promise through their professional accomplishments. They demonstrate exemplary leadership skills in their company and a strong dedication to the industry.
There is still time to submit nominations. Help us recognize the trailblazers shaping our industry!
Questions? Contact lmartin@wict.org.
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Stepping into executive leadership brings a new level of challenge. Broader impact, higher expectations and decisions that carry real weight. The WICT Network’s Executive Development Series supports this pivotal stage with two distinct programs for directors and vice presidents ready to deepen their leadership impact.
The Adaptive & Authentic Leader focuses on building clarity, resilience and self-awareness so leaders can navigate complexity with integrity, while Executive Presence & Influence sharpens how you show up and communicate in high-visibility moments to strengthen credibility and confidence.
Below, hear directly from past participants and see which program best aligns with the leadership capabilities you want to build next.
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THE ADAPTIVE & AUTHENTIC LEADER
Wednesday–Friday, May 13–15, 2026
Key Takeaways:
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Master modern power dynamics: Understand how power operates today and use it decisively to drive decisions, gain buy-in and mobilize teams.
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Deeper authenticity in how you lead: Translate your core strengths and values into a natural, trusted and respected leadership style.
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Grounded confidence: Balance confidence and humility while aligning your leadership with your vision and organizational goals.
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EXECUTIVE PRESENCE & INFLUENCE
Wednesday–Thursday, May 13–14, 2026
Key Takeaways:
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A defined leadership presence and brand: Understand how you are perceived and how you want to be experienced as a leader.
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Stronger communication under pressure: Practical techniques to stay composed, focused and impactful in high-stakes meetings, presentations and difficult conversations.
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Greater influence and visibility: Build credibility, inspire confidence and position yourself for broader responsibility with a leadership style that feels natural and sustainable.
| | ***Join us this May in Washington, DC!*** | | |
An Exclusive Program for Leaders on the Rise
November 16-20 | Alexandria, VA
Learn More & Apply>>>
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Leadership growth does not happen in isolation.
The WICT Network’s Rising Leaders Program brings together managers and directors from across media, entertainment, technology, sports, gaming and adjacent industries for a powerful, week-long leadership intensive.
This experience goes beyond traditional training. Through in-depth leadership analysis, case studies and interactive sessions, participants gain practical tools to lead teams, influence outcomes and navigate complexity with confidence.
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Eligibility
- Manager or director level or equivalent
- 5 to 7 years of professional experience
- Company endorsement required
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Application Details
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HR Approval Form due: Friday, April 24, 2026
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Online Application due: Friday, May 8, 2026
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Application fee: $199
Program fee upon acceptance: $4,995 members | $5,220 non-members
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Member-Only Benefit
Be the CEO of Your Career
Wednesday, March 4
Time: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm (Eastern)
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Be the CEO of Your Career
Most professionals were taught how to follow a career path. Very few were taught how to actively lead one.
In an industry shaped by constant change and consolidation, waiting for clarity is no longer enough. This session invites WICT members to step into the CEO role of their own careers and make intentional decisions about visibility, influence and direction.
Drawing on over 25 years in senior leadership and her work coaching leaders across industries, Karen introduces a practical framework for leading a career with clarity, agency and strategic intent. Participants will learn how to communicate their value with confidence, navigate transitions without losing momentum and design opportunities rather than react to change.
Participants will leave with:
- A stronger identity as the CEO of their own career.
- Clear language to communicate their value with confidence and influence.
- A practical framework for navigating transitions and pivots.
- Tools to make strategic career decisions instead of reactive ones.
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SPEAKER (Click below to read her bio):
Karen Kunkel Young, Executive Leadership and Career Coach
| | 🚨Student Membership is Free! | | |
Great news! As of January 1, Student Membership with The WICT Network is free—making it easier than ever to stay connected as you build your career in media, entertainment and technology.
Who’s Eligible?
- Full-time undergraduate students (12+ credit hours)
- Full-time graduate students (6+ credit hours)
Student Member Benefits include:
- Free dues
- Free webinars and early-career programs
- Targeted content, mentoring and networking
To get started, visit www.wict.org/join or contact membership@wict.org for help.
| | Congratulations to Our 2025 Chapter Award Winners! | | |
Thank you to our chapter leaders who gathered to celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of our 2025 Chapter Award winners.
As we reflect on the progress made over the past year, we’re filled with gratitude for the dedication and collaboration that power our entire network. From chapter leaders and volunteers to members, partners and supporters, each of you plays a role in the momentum we’re building together.
Please join us in congratulating the winners of The WICT Network’s 2025 Chapter Awards:
| | Download The WICT Network Member App, Available on All Mobile Devices | | | | |
The WICT Network Member App
Unlock the full potential of The WICT Network with our dedicated member app, available for download on all major mobile operating systems. Created to amplify the strength of our network, the app empowers members spanning the media, entertainment and technology sectors to connect more easily and meaningfully with their peers on a global scale.
| | The app has several features designed to help you easily form connections and make the most of your member benefits, including access to our Events & Registration, Webinars, Calendar, Groups and other Resources. | | |
Follow @WICTHQ on social media (we’re active on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram) for the latest news on workplace demographics, leadership development, productivity tips, programming updates, and impact and inclusion data.
Below are sample posts from LinkedIn. Make sure to follow us online for more valuable tips and updates.
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