Thursday, July 23rd, 9:30am – 4:00pm CDT

Location: New Orleans Marriott (in-person only)

Join NBCU Academy for a dynamic day of learning, connection, and career development at the NAHJ 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 NAHJ to attend their 2026 conference in New Orleans
• 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, July 23rd, 10:00am – 11:00am CDT
New Orleans Marriott

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: José Díaz-Balart, “NBC Nightly News Saturday”, “Dateline Espanol” & “AHORA 360” Anchor/Co-Anchor

Panel:

• Osvaldo “Ozzie” Martinez, Telemundo Local News, Programming & Standards EVP 
• Sally Ramirez, NBC 5/Telemundo Chicago SVP News 
• Elizabeth Flores, NBC10 & Telemundo62 Local VP of News 
• Laura Wides-Muñoz, NBCU News Group Director of Standards 

Additional Speakers:

• Yvette Miley, NBCU News Group EVP
• Rebecca Blumenstein, NBC News President, Editorial
• José Cancela, Telemundo Station Group President
• Nicole Suarez, Noticias Telemundo Anchor

Career Accelerator: Getting Hired

Thursday, July 23rd, 11:15am – 11:30am CDT
New Orleans Marriott

A fast-paced briefing on today’s evolving media job market. Get practical tips on standing out, positioning your skills, and navigating opportunities across newsrooms, platforms, and roles—whether you’re starting out or making your next move.

Speaker: Scott Williams, NBCU News Group Director of Talent Acquisition

How To Make A News Vertical Video

Thursday, July 23rd, 11:30am – 12:45pm CDT
New Orleans Marriott

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: Yuniesky Ramirez, Telemundo Miami Weekend Anchor

Speaker: Miguel Estrada, NBCU Local Bilingual Producer/Editor

Career Accelerator: Lessons From Local

Thursday, July 23rd, 1:15pm – 1:30pm CDT
New Orleans Marriott

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:

• Mayra Aguilar, NBC Telemundo News Anchor & Producer
• Diego Restrepo, Telemundo Nueva Inglaterra Executive Producer
• Marina Perelman, NBC4 Vice President of News
• JC Perez, Telemundo Chicago News Director

NBCU Academy Script Doctor

Thursday, July 23rd, 1:30pm – 2:45pm CDT
New Orleans Marriott

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: Janelle Rodriguez, NBC News EVP of Programming

Panel:

• Tom Llamas, “NBC Nightly News” Anchor and Managing Editor
• Ignacio Torres, “NBC Nightly News” Senior Producer

Lessons from a Life in Journalism: Tom Llamas in Conversation with José Díaz‑Balart

Thursday, July 23rd, 3:00pm – 3:45pm CDT
New Orleans Marriott

“NBC Nightly News” anchor Tom Llamas joins colleague and fellow journalist José Díaz‑Balart for an intimate one‑on‑one conversation celebrating Díaz‑Balart’s induction into the NAHJ Hall of Fame. Together, they reflect on a remarkable career spent shaping the national news conversation, mentoring generations of journalists, and amplifying Latino voices across NBC News and Telemundo. The conversation honors Díaz‑Balart’s legacy in bilingual journalism defined by leadership, credibility, and lasting impact.

Moderator: Tom Llamas, “NBC Nightly News” Anchor and Managing Editor

Special Guest: José Díaz-Balart, “NBC Nightly News Saturday” Anchor

Career Enhancer: The Glam Booth

Thursday, July 23rd and Friday, July 24th
New Orleans Marriott

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.