John Leverence Inks Long Term Contract with Television Academy; Promoted to Senior Vice-President, Awards

Dr. John Leverence has entered into a long-term extension of his employment agreement with the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, and has been promoted to the newly created position of Senior Vice-President, Awards for the Television Academy. It was announced today by Todd P. Leavitt, President and Chief Operating Officer of the Television Academy, to whom Leverence reports.

Dr. Leverence has supervised the awards function at the Television Academy since 1980, during which time the awards process has gained global prestige and importance. Dr. Leverence was the key staff executive responsible for such progressive methodologies as at-home voting and on-line voting, innovations that have been adopted by numerous others awards presenting entities based upon the Academy model created by Leverence.

Dick Askin, Chairman and CEO of the Television Academy, noted “John’s depth of knowledge of the Emmy Awards has raised the bar for award shows in the entertainment industry. Every year, he oversees an incredibly talented staff that makes one of the most difficult jobs in Hollywood look easy, and that’s quite an accomplishment.”

Leavitt, commenting on the promotion, stated,  “John is a cherished and unique resource to the Academy and its membership. His creative approach to the Emmy Awards has immeasurably added to the contribution which the Academy makes each year to the television community. We are extremely grateful that we will have his talents available for the foreseeable future. ”

"The opportunity to work with volunteers and staff at the Academy has long been a privilege, but the continuing opportunity to have a hand in presenting Emmy Awards to the very talented professionals within the television industry is an honor," Leverence added.