BFOA Launches Broadcast Personality Award With Stephen A. Smith.

ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith will be honored with the first-ever Broadcast Personality of the Year Award from the Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) during the organization’s annual fundraising gala on Monday, March 9, at New York City’s Plaza Hotel.

The new award recognizes Smith’s wide-ranging impact across television, radio, journalism and commentary, where his outspoken style and headline-driven analysis have made him one of the most visible personalities in American media. A native of Hollis, Queens, Smith’s career has spanned from his early days as a high school reporter for the New York Daily News to becoming a multi-platform presence across sports, politics, business and entertainment.

“We are excited to introduce the Broadcast Personality of the Year Award and there is no one better to be our first honoree than Stephen,” said Tim McCarthy, President of the Broadcasters Foundation.” There are very few in broadcasting that are as authentic as Stephen. His tremendous work ethic and candid delivery make Stephen a personality on any platform that you must pay attention to, and I know first-hand his work ethic is second to none.”

Smith is the featured commentator and executive producer of ESPN’s “First Take” and hosts “Straight Shooter,” a live political and current events program on SiriusXM. He began his broadcasting career in radio at “1050 ESPN New York” and has since hosted national and local programs across ESPN and Fox Sports Radio.

“I am honored to receive this recognition from Tim and the Broadcasters Foundation,” stated Smith. “The Broadcasters Foundation is a unique charity that helps support those in our industry who are suffering under the most daunting circumstances. I am delighted to be a part of this important fundraising gala that will help so many.”

The gala supports the Broadcasters Foundation of America’s mission to provide financial assistance to broadcasters facing serious illness or disaster. Smith says he is “honored” to support the organization’s work and its fundraising efforts.

As previously announced, the 2026 BFOA Gala will also honor Versant CEO and former NBCUniversal Media Group Chair Mark Lazarus with the Golden Mic Award, and Judge Judy Sheindlin with the Edward F. McLaughlin Lifetime Achievement Award.