Former BET Networks Chair and CEO Debra Lee has been named to the AT&T board of directors.
Lee, who worked for more than 30 years at BET Networks, was previously named to both Billboard’s Power 100 list and The Hollywood Reporter’s Most Powerful Women in Entertainment. She was appointed in 2011 to the White House Management Advisory Board by President Barack Obama and currently serves on the boards of Marriott and the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
“Debra’s outstanding leadership, deep expertise and strong track record in the entertainment and media industry will be terrific additions to our board of directors,” said AT&T Chair and CEO Randall Stephenson. “Her unique perspective as a media industry leader and operations executive, and her lifetime commitment to community service give her valuable insights I look forward to having on our board.”
Lee worked at BET, beginning as its first in-house counsel in 1986 and eventually ascending to chair and CEO, a role she held from 2006 to her retirement last year.
Under her leadership, the network launched such hit series as “Being Mary Jane,” “Black Girls Rock!” and “The New Edition Story,” and as well as the BET Awards and BET Honors ceremonies.