The Kaitz Event has long stood as one of the cable industry’s most anticipated gatherings—a time to celebrate connection, progress, and the people driving meaningful change. This year, the event returns on October 22, 2025, in New York City, with a bold new format and renewed purpose.
A reimagined experience
The Kaitz Event continues its decades-long mission of advancing leadership and opportunity across media and communications—but this year, it takes on a new form. The traditional sit-down dinner is now a dynamic, open format that reflects the energy and diversity of the industry it represents. Guests will experience an evening built for connection, featuring live entertainment, interactive elements, and New York–inspired culinary stations.
Beyond the celebration, the Kaitz Event remains deeply mission-driven. Funds raised support the NCTA Education Foundation’s efforts to expand leadership development, recruitment and retention programs, and scholarships that open doors for emerging talent. The event also caps Leadership Development Week, underscoring how today’s investments in people shape tomorrow’s media landscape.
Honoring the 2025 ChangeMaker awardees
The Kaitz Event’s centerpiece is the ChangeMaker Awards, which recognize individuals and organizations whose work embodies this year’s guiding theme—Do Good. Be Better. Impact Tomorrow. The 2025 honorees reflect a range of efforts that uplift voices, build pathways, and inspire progress across the industry.
- FUTURE NOW Media Foundation – ChangeMaker Award for Social Impact
For empowering college students and recent graduates with the skills, mentorship, and connections to launch careers in media and technology. - Michael K. Powell – ChangeMaker Award for Leadership
For his enduring commitment to fostering inclusion and innovation throughout his leadership as President & CEO of NCTA. - Ashon Calhoun – Fund the Future Scholarship Recipient
The inaugural recipient of this scholarship, Calhoun is a graduate student, Army National Guard sergeant, and former Emma Bowen fellow pursuing a future in media leadership. - BroadFutures – ChangeMaker “One to Watch”
Recognized for creating pathways for neurodivergent young adults through paid internships, professional training, and mentoring. - C-SPAN StudentCam – ChangeMaker “One to Watch”
For inspiring students nationwide to tell compelling stories through documentary filmmaking on pressing issues facing their communities. - Michael Sipala – ChangeMaker “One to Watch”
Honored for his work at AMC Networks and his leadership of the AVID BERG employee resource group, promoting diversity and creative opportunity.
Join the celebration
The Kaitz Event will be held on October 22, 2025, at the New York Marriott Marquis. The evening will bring together leaders, creators, and innovators for a night dedicated to community, storytelling, and impact.
Learn more, purchase tickets, or explore sponsorship opportunities at kaitzevent.com.
