Not so long ago, it seems, we made an executive decision at Radio Ink that we needed to step up our efforts for women in the radio industry. Though we had a history of special columns addressing women's issues, we decided to create an issue devoted to the Most Influential Women in Radio. The MIW issue was an instant hit and became an annual tradition.
To the credit of the women on that first list, they decided to make it an opportunity to do more for other women in the industry. So they took the initials MIW and changed the meaning to "Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio." The MIW group then set up mentoring programs that continue to this day and have touched the lives of multitudes of women in our industry.
It's amazing how a small seed can grow into something so much bigger than its origins.
The MIW has had a couple of leaders, but when Heidi Raphael stepped in, the operation moved to a new level of excellence. Heidi volunteered time from her already busy schedule as head of communications for Greater Media, and her boss, Peter Smyth, supported her time away for MIW events and meetings. Heidi, being the great communications executive she is, built the reputation of the MIWs to a higher level, opened doors, and helped bring MIW and its mentoring efforts even further.
Today it was announced that Heidi is stepping down as MIW spokesperson/leader and broadcast veteran Kay Olin will step into the demanding role. I'd like to publicly acknowledge and thank Heidi Raphael for her leadership and the energy and passion she has devoted to the MIW organization for the past several years. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed.
Our industry owes a debt of gratitude to the entire MIW membership for the time and effort they take to create programs and mentor women who want to grow in our fine industry. Let's all raise a glass in salute to Heidi, to new spokesperson Kay Olin, and to the entire MIW team!
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Posted by: topwatchsold | October 17, 2014 at 09:53 AM
What a fitting tribute to an incredible leader and role model. Heidi's impact on the industry has been and will continue to be tremendous. She has truly made a difference to so many. As one of the MIW's I can say with confidence she may be stepping down as our spokeperson but she is not stepping down as an active participant. Here is to a new chapter as Kay Olin begins to chart the course.
Posted by: Erica Farber | April 25, 2014 at 11:12 AM
As one of the women on that first list, I can tell you that we all knew we had an opportunity to effect great change in the industry. Eric and the Radio Ink team gave us the vehicle to make that happen, but Heidi almost single-handedly redesigned the engine, turbo-charged it, and we all jumped in for a great ride. It's been an honor and a pleasure to work with her during her tenure as spokeswoman, and she will continue to be an active part of our Executive Committee. We also know we'll be in good hands as Kay Olin takes the wheel.
Posted by: Corinne Baldassano | April 25, 2014 at 01:42 AM
Heidi was a special gift to the MIWs from Greater Media. She is an incredible person and leader. We are so grateful that she not only took on and excelled at the task but that she was willing to stay on for 3 years after she asked to be replaced. I applaud Kay Olin for being willing to follow in Heidi's footsteps. I give a standing ovation to Heidi.
Posted by: Mary Beth Garber | April 24, 2014 at 09:10 PM
Heidi Raphael is a consummate professional whose passion and commitment are exemplary. She may be exiting her role with MIW but her impact will be enduring. Best wishes to Kay Olin as she assumes the mantle.
Posted by: Rotha Maddox | April 24, 2014 at 07:45 PM