IRTS Foundation Hosts Annual Mentorship Dinner
The event celebrated industry leaders for their commitment to developing the next generation of media professionals.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Awards
The International Radio and Television Society Foundation held its annual mentorship dinner in New York. The event featured the presentation of the Hall of Mentorship Award to Wendell Scott.
Why it matters
The International Radio and Television Society Foundation is a nonprofit focused on cultivating future media leadership. Recognizing veteran executives highlights the importance of mentorship within the industry.
Wendell Scott received the Hall of Mentorship Award, recognizing his 22-year tenure at Disney and ESPN. The event serves as a focal point for the foundation's work in media talent development.
The players
Wendell Scott
He is the senior vice president of Disney Advertising Sales and a veteran with 22 years of service at Disney and ESPN.
Debra OConnell
She serves as the chairman of Disney Entertainment Television.
Rita Ferro
She is the president of Global Advertising Sales for the Walt Disney Company.
International Radio and Television Society Foundation
This nonprofit organization is dedicated to developing the next generation of media leaders through events and mentorship.
The details
Wendell Scott, currently the senior vice president of Disney Advertising Sales, was honored for his long-standing career. The dinner was attended by prominent figures including Disney Entertainment Television chairman Debra OConnell and Walt Disney Company president of Global Advertising Sales, Rita Ferro.
Timeline
The annual mentorship dinner took place in New York on October 15, 2026.
Culture Shift
This event reflects the ongoing trend of legacy media corporations prioritizing formal mentorship programs to retain talent. It underscores how the industry is doubling down on professional development amidst a shifting media landscape.
The dinner highlights the role of New York City as a hub for media industry networking and talent development. Attendees and local professionals gain visibility into the mentorship paths supported by major entities like Disney.
The takeaway
Mentorship remains a critical component for career progression within major media organizations. Aspiring professionals should look for such organizational programs to gain access to senior-level networks.
Further reading
For more on industry recognitions, explore the Awards section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ABC7.
