As many of our readers know, BSM’s annual two-day sports media conference can only be attended by industry professionals. But on February 26th and 27th, as we gather sports media’s most talented personalities and executives in New York City for the 2020 BSM Summit, there will be two seats reserved for the future of the sports media business.
I am thrilled to share that BSM will be giving two (2) tri-state area college students an opportunity to attend February’s conference free of charge, allowing aspiring broadcasters to learn from the industry’s best, and establish future connections. I will select one of the winners. The other will be chosen by Westwood One and Cumulus Media’s Senior Vice President of Sports Bruce Gilbert.
Gaining knowledge, and building relationships is essential for all broadcasters, but especially for young people who are just getting started. I recognize how fortunate we are to have a platform that many enjoy reading and following. Having a chance to assemble the best and brightest in the sports media business in one room for two-days is a pretty neat experience, and I’d like to use the opportunity to help young broadcasters by treating them to an in-depth education on our business, while allowing them to establish connections for the future.
In order to earn consideration for attending the conference, students are asked to submit a 2-minute video by email to JBarrett@sportsradiopd.com explaining why they’d like to be in attendance for the event. Included in the email should be a list of steps they’ve taken to explore opportunities in the media industry, and any audio or video clips they wish to attach showcasing their work.
To qualify for the contest, students must be enrolled at a tri-state area college within 90 miles of New York City and pursuing a degree that involves course work either in radio, television, print or the digital business. Those attending a tri-state area trade school which focuses on broadcasting are also invited to participate. BSM will accept submissions until December 20th. The two winners will be announced on Monday December 23rd.
This is something I wanted to do last year, but couldn’t since it was our first event and there were a lot of moving parts to figure out. Now that I have a better idea of what to expect, I’m excited to provide the future of our industry an opportunity to attend our conference and open their eyes and minds to what they’re in for should they continue to pursue the sports media business. I have no doubt it will be a rewarding experience for them.
The 2020 BSM Summit will feature award ceremonies in honor of Emmis Communications CEO Jeff Smulyan, WFAN program director Mark Chernoff and national sports radio host Tony Bruno. Twenty four speakers have been announced so far for the event including Mike Francesa, Paul Finebaum, Adam Schein, Maggie Gray, Brandon Tierney and a slew of industry executives. For information on tickets and to reserve a hotel room visit BSMsummit.com.
Jason Barrett is the President and Founder of Barrett Media since the company was created in September 2015. Prior to its arrival, JB served as a sports radio programmer, launching brands such as 95.7 The Game in San Francisco, and 101 ESPN in St. Louis. He also spent time programming SportsTalk 950 in Philadelphia, 590 The Fan KFNS in St. Louis, and ESPN 1340/1390 in Poughkeepsie, NY. Jason also worked on-air and behind the scenes in local radio at 101.5 WPDH, WTBQ 1110AM, and WPYX 106.5. He also spent two years on the national stage, producing radio shows for ESPN Radio in Bristol, CT. Among them included the Dan Patrick Show, and GameNight.
You can find JB on Twitter @SportsRadioPD. He’s also reachable by email at Jason@BarrettMedia.com.
