FOX News Media honors staff with 2025 Spotlight Awards

FOX News Media CEO Suzanne Scott and President Jay Wallace presented the 2025 Spotlight Awards to internal staff members during a luncheon held at Avra in midtown Manhattan. The event, hosted by anchor Bill Hemmer, recognized employees across the organization for their contributions as the network approaches its 30th anniversary. Scott noted that the company has evolved from its early days of technical challenges into a dominant force in cable news, regularly competing with and outperforming broadcast networks.

The annual awards, which began in 2020, celebrate employees who maintain high standards of performance. Scott stated that management received hundreds of nominations from staff members to identify these individuals. Wallace and Executive Vice President Scott Wilder presented the Unsung Hero Award to three recipients who perform vital but often invisible work. Pat Butler, Director of broadcast contribution, received recognition for his role in covering the September 11, 2001 attacks, including driving a truck to the scene and coordinating via a payphone when cell networks failed. Tania Joseph, a FOX Nation producer, was honored for launching and managing the Sean Hannity Show podcast while maintaining content quality. Tiger Stanley, a Field Engineering and Scenic Design Specialist, was acknowledged for his ability to solve complex production challenges.

The Rising Star Award recognized four employees in the early stages of their careers. Matthew Donnell and Jessica Sonkin, both from the Washington assignment desk, were selected for their work ethic and transition into political embed roles ahead of the midterm elections. Carey Gallagher, an associate producer for FOX & Friends, was praised for her research and segment production capabilities. Sabrina Baker, a FOX Nation associate producer, was recognized for managing multiple shows simultaneously and leading the production of Park'd Season 10.

A separate category honored employees for community involvement and volunteer efforts. Matt Rodriguez, a stage manager for FOX and Friends First, was recognized for his role as a Cub Scouts Unit Commissioner despite working overnight shifts. Lillian Lecroy, a Washington D.C. assignment manager, was cited for her volunteer work with American Corporate Partners, a nonprofit connecting veterans with career mentors. Rich Cozzi, Lead technical director, received an award for driving automation initiatives across FOX News Media's business and weather departments.

The Impact Award was shared by Brianne Bombara and Veronica Baker from the campus recruitment team. Scott highlighted their work in building a recruiting program that oversees three internship cycles with nearly 700 participants annually. The team made 34 campus visits and spent 53 days on the road to recruit top talent. Scott stated that their efforts have placed the company's internship program among the best in the country.