Debra L. Lee

Debra L. Lee is arguably one of the most influential female voices in the entertainment industry who for nearly 2 decades served as Chairman & CEO of BET Networks, helming the company’s reinvigorated approach to corporate philanthropy & authentic programming that lead to hits including “The New Edition Story,” “Being Mary Jane,” and “Black Girls Rock!.” Named one of The Hollywood Reporter’s 100 Most Powerful Women in Entertainment, Lee’s achievements during her career have earned her numerous accolades, including the Distinguished Leadership Vanguard Award by the National Cable & Telecommunications Association, induction into the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame and recognition by the GRAMMY Organization with the Salute To Industry Icons Award, on behalf of her major contributions to American music and culture. Lee is currently the first and only woman to receive the distinguished honor. Lee is also a committed philanthropist, serving as President on The Alvin Ailey Dance Foundation; a member emeritus of the FCC’s Advisory Committee on Diversity for Communications in the Digital Age; and she sits on the Board of Trustees for the American Film Institute, Brown University’s Center for Slavery & Justice, The Paley Center for Media, and The USC Annenberg School for Communication & Journalism. Lee earned her Juris doctorate at Harvard Law School, while simultaneously earning a master’s degree in public policy from the John F. Kennedy School of Government. She graduated from Brown University with a bachelor’s degree in political science with an emphasis in Asian politics.