Thursday, August 13th, 11:00am – 5:15pm EDT

Location: Atlanta Marriott Marquis (in-person only)

Join NBCU Academy for a dynamic day of learning, connection, and career development at the NABJ Convention. Designed for emerging and experienced journalists alike, this full-day experience features interactive workshops, candid conversations with NBCU News Group leaders, and hands-on opportunities to sharpen your skills across platforms. From navigating today’s evolving job market to mastering vertical video and refining your storytelling, attendees will gain practical tools to grow and adapt in a rapidly changing media landscape.

Participants can also sign up for personalized feedback through the NBCU Academy Script Doctor, update their professional presence at the Glam Booth, and connect with recruiters and newsroom leaders across NBC News, Telemundo, NBC Sports, and NBCUniversal Entertainment.

Whether you’re looking to break in, level up, or expand your network, NBCU Academy offers direct access to the insights, skills, and connections shaping the future of journalism.

Who should apply? 

Our workshops are designed for attendees who are: 

• Registered with NABJ to attend their 2026 conference in Atlanta
• Skilled journalists interested in new media
• Strongly interested in writing, editing and producing
• On-air talent looking to move into a new market

Leadership, Legacy and the Future of Journalism in the Age of AI

Thursday, August 13th, 11:00am – 11:45am EDT
Atlanta Marriott Marquis

Journalism is evolving in real time, shaped by new technologies and shifting audience expectations. What does it take to adapt with confidence and thrive during this transformation? Join NBCU News Group leaders for a candid conversation on how newsrooms are changing, the thoughtful use of AI in reporting and storytelling, and the skills needed to grow in this new era. Hear how journalists are uniquely equipped for this moment, with the ability to navigate complexity, adapt quickly, and tell meaningful stories under pressure. Gain a clearer view of what’s ahead and how to use your strengths to achieve success.

Moderator: Sheinelle Jones, “TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle” Co-host

Panel:

• Anzio Williams, NBCU Local Talent, Strategic Initiatives & Team Impact EVP
• Nadine Clermont, NBC News Midwest Bureau Senior Director
• Tom Mazzarelli, “TODAY” Executive Producer
• Noreen Gillespie, NBCU News Group Head of Standards SVP

Additional Speakers:

• Yvette Miley, NBCU News Group EVP
• Kevin Cross, NBC 5/ Telemundo Chicago President & GM
• Jackie Bradford, NBCU Local Washington President & GM
• Shaquille Brewster, NBC News Correspondent

Career Accelerator: Lessons From Local

Thursday, August 13th, 12:00pm – 12:15pm EDT
Atlanta Marriott Marquis

Local news is where great journalists are made. Hear quick, real-world insights from newsroom leaders on what it takes to succeed—from covering breaking news to building community trust—and how those skills translate across the industry.

Speakers:

• Janice Huff, NBC 4 New York Chief Meteorologist
• Marcus Washington, NBC Bay Area Anchor
• Brandon Bryant, NBC 6 Photojournalist
• Melinda Woolbright, NBC 4 /Telemundo 44 Planning Manager
• Erika Draper, NBC 5 Today Executive Producer

How To Make A News Vertical Video

Thursday, August 13th, 12:15pm – 1:30pm EDT
Atlanta Marriott Marquis

Interactive Workshop

Vertical video is where millions now discover the news—are you ready to meet them there? In this interactive session, learn how to create vertical videos that inform, engage and feel authentic. We’ll break down what’s really working in today’s newsrooms, from structure and storytelling to tone and tools—including how to drop the traditional “reporter voice” without losing credibility. Walk away with practical techniques to elevate your storytelling and reach new audiences.

Moderator: Teneille Gibson, NBC4 Washington Multiplatform Director

Panelist: Tawanda Scott Sambou, NBC News Senior Producer

NBCU Academy Script Doctor

Thursday, August 13th, 2:15pm – 3:15pm EDT
Atlanta Marriott Marquis

Great journalism doesn’t live in just one format. Hear from NBCU News Group journalists who’ve mastered storytelling across platforms, then get personalized feedback from our local news directors and NBC News Digital editors. Bring a script or article and sign up in advance to reserve your one-on-one critique session.

Moderator: David Ushery, NBC4 New York Anchor

Panel:

• Blayne Alexander, “Dateline NBC” Correspondent
• Stefanie Cargill, NBC News Producer
• Michelle Garcia, NBC News Senior Editor

Additional Speaker: Marquise Francis, NBC News Correspondent

Game Changers: Maria Taylor on Sports, Storytelling and the Future Fan Experience

Thursday, August 13th, 4:00pm – 5:15pm EDT
Atlanta Marriott Marquis

A special high-energy closing session on sports storytelling featuring NBC Sports host Maria Taylor in conversation about sports, culture, live fan experiences and her Peacock docuseries Field Generals: History of the Black Quarterback.

Maria will lead a conversation with Comcast leaders Vito Forlenza and Javier Garcia on how Xfinity is transforming live sports viewing, then sit down with NBC Sports’ Zora Stephenson for a fireside chat about her career and Field Generals.

Stay after for drinks, food, gifts and a hands-on Xfinity show-and-share experience. Open to all NABJ attendees.

Speakers:

• Maria Taylor, Producer & Host, NBC Sports
• Zora Stephenson, NBC Sports Play-by-Play & Reporter
• Javier Garcia, Comcast Multicultural Growth Strategy & Ops SVP
• Vito Forlenza, Comcast Sports Entertainment VP

Career Enhancer: The Glam Booth

Thursday, August 13th and Friday, August 14th
Atlanta Marriott Marquis

Step into the Glam Booth for a professional polish. Participants can sign up in advance for headshots and on-site grooming consultations with industry artists. Walk away camera-ready with updated visuals and tips to elevate your on-screen presence and personal brand.