In times of contraction, it can be tempting to turn inward and focus solely on getting through the present moment. But for this industry not just to survive the short term but play the long game as well, we must continuously ensure we are making television a business that can attract and retain fresh talent, from all walks of life.

That's essentially the mission of the Television Academy Foundation, which I chaired for three years: to preserve and celebrate our industry's history while cultivating its next generation. We have a thoughtful array of programs that support this goal, including our annual College Television Awards, which took place on Saturday, April 5. Over the past four-plus decades, this program has recognized more than 900 student honorees. I can hardly think of a more energizing way to jumpstart a career and fuel the motivation to keep striving for excellence. So many alumni winners have gone on to enormous success as pro-ducers, directors and executives in our business, including nabbing TV's ultimate prize, the Emmy.

I am thankful to the top creatives and executives who lent their time and expertise to speak on panels and presentations as a part of the nominees' professional development program, which took place in the days leading up to the awards ceremony. Having the buy-in and support of industry leaders is crucial for these kinds of programs to exist. That includes the Foundation's free, reimagined virtual series for emerging talent across the country — Access: Behind the Screens, relaunching later this year.

Make no mistake, these initiatives — which also include a variety of internships offered year-round — do not just benefit aspiring young people, especially those who otherwise lack the financial or relational resources to make their professional ambitions come true. These programs benefit the entire television industry, because they help us to remain a competitive and compelling destination for the best and brightest representatives of the future.

I've loved the TV business even before I was a part of it, and it's been my life's passion to see it continue to evolve and thrive. That's what led me to step down from my official role at the Foundation and to serve the Academy as chair: to support and impact our professional members' continued ambitions to reach their own potential. Especially in times of contraction, I want the Academy to send a unified message to everyone who loves TV, from the up-and-coming storyteller to the longtime industry veteran: You can still make a living in this business. It's in our collective interest to make that a reality.

This chair letter originally appeared in emmy Magazine, issue #4, 2025.