53 Millennium - Eighteenth Edition ARTS, MEDIA AND ENTERTAINMENT Ignatius Blaise Labbe has cultivated a fulfilling career in the field of news and media management. As the regional news director for Sinclair Inc., he oversees news operations in 14 markets in six states. He joined Sinclair Inc. in 2013 as the group news director, helping to cultivate the station’s branding and diversify revenue streams. Now, he is responsible for hiring news directors for newsrooms at local stations, as well as hiring other talent, communicating with vendors, negotiating contracts and monitoring legal issues. Mr. Labbe began his career as the news operations manager for KENS-TV in 1998 and has since become well-regarded for his ability to drive positive change by cultivating dynamic and productive newsrooms. To provide higher-quality news and entertainment, he embraced diversity, fostered innovation and promoted a culture of inclusivity, resulting in a positive work environment that values and respects diverse ideas. He takes pride in the constantly evolving nature of the industry in which he works. In his industry, Mr. Labbe remains active outside of his career through membership in organizations such as the Radio Television Digital News Association, the National Association of Black Journalists, and The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. He has been a supporter of and a volunteer with the MLK Foundation since 2013. Looking to the future, Mr. Labbe strives to adapt to the changing broadcast industry. He takes pride in mentoring and supporting young professionals in the field of journalism, launching the careers of people such as Rosa Flores, a reporter and anchor at CNN, and Katie Dinda, a vice president at ABC News. He aims to continue mentoring the next generation of journalists and is dedicated to upholding the true essence of journalism, which involves holding the powerful accountable and being a voice for the underrepresented. Outside of broadcasting and journalism, he plans to write a book. Millennium Magazine Featured Listee IGNATIUS BLAISE LABBE REGIONAL NEWS DIRECTOR Sinclair Inc. San Antonio, TX
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