NBCU Academy at the NLGJA Conference

Thursday, September 4th, 2025
Loews Atlanta Hotel | Ellington Ballroom D

There is no application approval process for NBCU Academy’s activation at the 2025 NLGJA Conference. All are welcome to attend the sessions detailed below.

Charting Your Path: How to Navigate Leadership and Grow Your Career

Thursday, September 4th, 11:00am-12:00pm EDT
Loews Atlanta Hotel | Ellington Ballroom D

Stuck in the day-to-day grind? You’re not alone. Newsrooms today move fast and finding space to lead, grow, or even plan your next step can feel impossible. In this session, NBCU News Group leaders and journalists share real-world strategies for standing out, communicating your goals, and owning your career even in a high-pressure, high-turnover media world.

Speakers:

• Vaughn Hillyard, NBC News & MSNBC White House Correspondent
• Osvaldo “Ozzie” Martinez, Telemundo News, Programming & Standards EVP
• Cory Gnazzo, “The Rachel Maddow Show” Senior Executive Producer
• Brooke Sopelsa, NBC Out Editorial Director
• Jesse Rodriguez, MSNBC Vice President for Booking & Editorial

Spotlighting Queer Joy: Making Space for Positive Stories in the Newsroom

Thursday, September 4th, 4:15-5:15pm EDT
Loews Atlanta Hotel | Ellington Ballroom D

Not every LGBTQ+ story is about loss or legislation. So how do you get the good news covered too? Join editors, producers, and reporters from NBCU News Group who are elevating queer joy in the middle of a relentless news cycle. You’ll learn how to find those stories, pitch them powerfully, and get newsroom leaders to say yes.

Speakers:

• Ellison Barber, NBC News Correspondent
• Matt Glassman, NBC News Regional Editorial VP
• Josh Weiner, “TODAY” Senior Producer
• Jo Yurcaba, NBC Out Reporter
• Jay Valle, NBCU Academy Associate Reporter

From Access to Impact: Scott Evans on Shaping Pop Culture Narratives

Thursday, September 4th, 5:30-6:00pm EDT
Loews Atlanta Hotel | Ellington Ballroom D

Join Access Hollywood’s Scott Evans for a fireside chat that’s equal parts real talk, red carpet tea, and purpose driven storytelling. From viral interviews to headline-making moments, Scott gets into how showing up as his unapologetic self isn’t just his brand – it’s his superpower. With his signature charm and quick wit, he’ll break down how entertainment journalism can do more than chase buzz – it can spark dialogue, center underrepresented voices, and foster greater civic awareness through pop culture storytelling.

Speakers:

• Miguel Martinez-Valle, NBC10 & Telemundo62 Bilingual Reporter
• Scott Evans, Access Hollywood Co-Host