Presenters & Award Winners
Trymaine Lee
Prepare for an extraordinary dialogue with Trymaine Lee, our featured speaker at the upcoming 'Connecting Media and Community' conference. A Pulitzer Prize and Emmy Award–winning journalist, MSNBC contributor, and author, Trymaine brings over two decades of experience reporting from the frontlines of America's most defining stories.
Trymaine will discuss his groundbreaking book, 'A Thousand Ways to Die: The True Cost of Violence on Black Life in America,' a profound exploration of the Black experience in America. This work, inspired by a personal health crisis, delves into the weight of being a Black man in America, the impact of witnessing relentless Black death as a journalist, and the generational scars of racism and violence.
In a unique twist, our diverse panel - including journalist Tiffany Walden, economist Victoria Lakes-Battle, and community advocate Sequane Lawrence - will each prepare questions for Trymaine based on their professional perspectives and insights from his book. This promises a rich, multifaceted discussion that will bridge journalism, economics, and community action.
Trymaine's voice is pivotal in guiding the conversation and connection among media, nonprofits, and civic institutions. His presence at our gathering will undoubtedly inform and shift our collective visioning and action towards a more equitable and just media landscape.
Panalists
Victoria Lakes-Battle
How can economic insights reshape our approach to community-driven media?
This is the perspective brought by Victoria “Vickie” Lakes-Battle, Executive Director of Illinois Facilities Fund, and one of our esteemed respondents to Trymaine Lee’s best-selling book, "A Thousand Ways to Die: The True Cost of Violence on Black Life in America.”
Her expertise in urban economics and community development will illuminate the intricate connections between financial systems, media landscapes, and civic engagement. Join us on December 3 to hear Victoria's valuable perspectives on strengthening the symbiotic relationship between content creators and their audiences, and discover how economic understanding can drive more impactful, community-centered journalism.
Tiffany Walden
The future of community-centered, independent journalism in Chicago is right now.
Dive into this vital discussion with Tiffany Walden, editor-in-chief of The TRiiBE and one of our distinguished panelists, as she weighs in on Trymaine Lee’s best-selling book, "A Thousand Ways to Die: The True Cost of Violence on Black Life in America.”
Tiffany's innovative approach to storytelling is reshaping Chicago's media landscape, amplifying voices often overlooked by mainstream outlets. At our conference on December 3, discover how she's breaking new ground in accessible, actionable information for her community. Learn about the challenges and triumphs of building a platform that truly reflects and serves its audience.
Sequane Lawrence
When media and community organizations forge stronger alliances, social change is imminent.
Dive deeper into this concept with Sequane Lawrence, Executive Director of The Revolution Institute, and our insightful respondent will join us during our Lunch Session with featured speaker, Trymaine Lee, regarding his book, "A Thousand Ways to Die: The True Cost of Violence on Black Life in America.” With extensive experience in community leadership and as an advocate for fathers’ engagement in their children’s success, Sequane brings a unique perspective on bridging the gap between media professionals and the neighborhoods they serve. Join us on December 3 to explore strategies for meaningful collaboration that ensure media not only reports on communities but also actively contributes to their empowerment and growth.
Meet the Champions of Courage
Transformative leadership in media, community engagement, and social justice takes center stage as we proudly introduce our 2025 Champions of Courage: Gabrielle Lyon, PhD, Timothy M. Russell, and Nicole R. Robinson.
These extraordinary individuals embody what it means to lead with unwavering conviction, remarkable resilience, and profound moral fortitude in today's complex media landscape. Through their groundbreaking work, they've reshaped the contours of inclusive dialogue, revolutionized community engagement strategies, amplified marginalized voices, and driven systemic change.
On December 3 at the David Rubenstein Forum, we'll celebrate their outstanding contributions, delve into their wealth of experiences, and explore how their innovative approaches can inspire our collective efforts in bridging media and community.
Gabrielle Lyon
We're thrilled to announce Gabrielle Lyon, PhD, Executive Director of Illinois Humanities, as one of our 2025 Champion of Courage Awardees!
Gabrielle's unwavering dedication to fostering dialogue, promoting understanding, and inspiring action through the humanities exemplifies true courage in these challenging times. Her leadership has created ripples of positive change across Illinois, embodying the spirit of public service and resilience.
Timothy M. Russell
Join us in congratulating PN Conference 2025 Champion of Courage Awardee, Timothy M. Russell, VP of Community Engagement WTTW/WFMT)
Timothy's leadership in shaping community engagement strategies exemplifies bridging the gap between content creators and audiences. His work ensures that Chicago's PBS station’s role in the media landscape reflects and serves all communities.
Nicole Robinson
We are delighted to be honoring Nicole R. Robinson, CEO of YWCA Metropolitan Chicago, as a 2025 Champion of Courage!
Nicole's dedication to empowering women and eliminating racism aligns with our mission to promote inclusive dialogue and media literacy. Nicole stepped into leadership of a beloved legacy institution during turbulent times, and she was up to the challenge. Her resilience and advocacy inspire us all.
