The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) has selected Elise Durham as its next executive director. Durham comes to NABJ with more than 30 years of professional work
experience in television news management, strategic communications, and
government relations, and has an extensive background leading dynamic,
results-oriented teams. She is also a longtime member of NABJ.
Durham was selected after multiple reviews by the NABJ executive board and
ad hoc executive director search advisory committee. Candidates were scored
on key measurements critical to an executive director’s responsibilities,
considering the ever-changing landscape for journalists and media
professionals. Durham was a standout on each level.
Currently, Durham is the assistant general manager of Marketing,
Communications, and Public Affairs for Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta
International Airport, the busiest airport in the world. She oversees a
multi-million-dollar portfolio and a team of 30 employees. In that
role, she manages the airport’s relationship with corporate, strategic and
community partners. Before that, Durham was communications director for
Atlanta Mayors Keisha Lance Bottoms and Andre Dickens. She also served as
executive director of Strategic Communications for Morehouse College where
she contributed to a five-year capital campaign that raised $120 million.
Durham’s commitment to NABJ has lasted for more than 35 years. During that
time, she produced major events for NABJ including serving as convention
program chair, convention chair, and producer of several U.S. presidential
candidate forums. She also was behind the Founders’ reception held at the
African American Museum on History and Culture in Washington, D.C.
Her passion for NABJ runs deep. “I am honored and ready to help lead NABJ
into its next, most transformative chapter grounded in vision, advocacy,
innovation, and love,” said Durham. “I often say that NABJ is the longest
love affair I have ever had, and I am excited about what the future will
bring.”
As an “NABJ baby” Durham participated, as a student, in the very first NABJ
Short Course, held at her alma mater Florida A&M University -where she sits
on the Board of Visitors of the School of Journalism and Graphic
Communication. She has worked for six television stations including market
powerhouse WSB-TV, producing two of the No. 1 news programs in the country.
Over the years, she has raised tens of thousands of dollars for
scholarships for the Atlanta Association of Black Journalists, where she
currently serves as Parliamentarian.
As current NABJ Executive Director Drew Berry recently announced his
upcoming retirement later this year, NABJ leadership is looking forward to
welcoming Durham.
President Ken Lemon says, “The selection of our next executive director now
allows the current executive board, which also serves as NABJ’s personnel
committee, to fulfill responsibilities they were elected to do. That
includes ensuring an Executive Director is in place and empowered to do the
business of NABJ as we roll into our next 50 years.”
NABJ made the decision to fill this critical role at this time to:
* Allow for a smooth transition between the outgoing and incoming
executive directors,
* Ensure stability with sponsor and partner relationships, many of whom
are attending the convention this year, and
* Create synergy with the Board of directors and NABJ staff while the
current executive director is in place.
Retiring Executive Director Drew Berry says, “We are thrilled to welcome
Elise Durham as NABJ’s next executive director. With a deep understanding
of our organizational history and culture, and a proven track record of
visionary leadership, she is uniquely positioned and qualified to guide
NABJ into its next chapter.” Berry continued to say,
“Serving this extraordinary organization has been the honor of a lifetime.
As I prepare to pass the baton, I do so with pride and optimism, knowing
that NABJ will be in capable and committed hands. I’m grateful for the
opportunity I’ve had to serve, and I leave this position proud of what
we’ve built together.”
Durham will officially begin her position as NABJ executive director this
fall.
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