Sue Schardt, executive producer at Margin Media and executive producer and creator of Localore, was honored with the 2018 Michael Bader Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by the National Federation of Community Broadcasters (NFCB). Sue Schardt has an established and respected track record in community and public media, bringing her creative vision to lift and advance new stories, emerging voices, and programs that reflect the rich diversity of America today. The Bader Award honored her specifically for her transformational work as leader of the Association of Independents in Radio (AIR), a international talent network with more than 1300 members, and for her creation of Localore, a national production that has brought enduring impact to independent talent, and to public media stations and the communities they serve.
NFCB presents the Bader Award in honor of attorney and community radio advocate Michael Bader. Bader, who died in 2001, earned the respect of his peers with his dedication and courageous legal representation of fledgling community radio stations. Previous recipients of the award that bears his name are noted for a single outstanding innovation, or for distinguishing contributions they’ve made to independent community radio over the span of their career.
In a tribute video created for the occasion of Ms. Schardt’s induction, AIR staff and leaders from across public media extolled the generosity of her spirit, her relentless commitment, the creative vision she’s brought to her work, and the impact she’s had as a mentor, leader, and friend. Among those adding their voices to the tribute were Kathy Merritt, Sr VP of Content Strategy and Development at the Corporation for Public Broadcasting; Laura Walker, CEO of New York Public Media; Noland Walker, Content Director of ITVS; Kerri Hoffman, CEO of PRX, as well as many producers from across the U.S. and the world.
The testimonials noted Sue Schardt’s enduring conviction for inclusiveness in public media, her ability to take strategic risks that pay off, appreciation for her gifts as an effective and trusted collaborator, and the impact her guidance and encouragement had on other creators and their careers.
Jennifer Brandel, one of Localore’s stand-out lead producers (2012) and CEO of Hearken, expressed her gratitude to Ms. Schardt for her “vision” that “unlocks the energy no one else knows is possible.”
To watch the NFCB tribute video to Sue Schardt, go here. [linkto: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vuMFEijMjEc&t=316s]
Read Sue Schardt’s remarks at the Bader Award ceremony here. [https://marginmedia.org/bader-award-remarks/]
For the latest on Sue Schardt and Margin Media, go here: [linkto: https://marginmedia.org/]
Sue Schardt 