Veteran journalist and GW Alliance for a Sustainable Future Executive Director, Frank Sesno, has been honored with a Capital Emmy Award for his role as moderator of Chesapeake Bay Summit 2024: Course Correction, produced by Maryland Public Television (MPT).
The program, part of MPT’s long-running commitment to environmental journalism, brought together scientists, policymakers, and community leaders to examine the state of the Chesapeake Bay and explore urgent strategies for reversing environmental decline. With Sesno leading the discussion, the summit tackled complex issues such as climate change, pollution, and habitat loss, while highlighting innovative solutions and community-driven efforts to restore the Chesapeake Bay’s health.
“It’s an honor to be recognized alongside such talented storytellers. Maryland Public Television’s deep commitment to local issues like the Chesapeake Bay not only informs our communities but also inspires broader conversations about sustainability. I’m proud to have contributed to a program that brings critical voices together and helps drive meaningful progress,” said Sesno.
The summit featured in-depth discussions on the latest scientific data, the role of environmental justice, and the need for collaborative action across state and local governments.
“There is an urgency to these stories. Our collective work in sustainability in the last decade has included goals and commitments for our planet, and it’s time to take a hard look at where we are in terms of achievements,” added Sesno. “My hope is that we can reach as many people as possible to spark new ideas and new collaborations to drive change.”
Sesno’s collaboration with MPT dates back to 2011 during the first Planet Forward national special, and in recent years, focuses on the Chesapeake Bay, the EPA’s 'pollution diet' for the estuary, and research and community initiatives. Sesno’s Emmy-winning work with MPT highlights his broader dedication to sustainability and reinforces ASF’s mission to inform, inspire, and drive action through dialogue and storytelling.
Sesno’s recognition was part of a record-breaking night for MPT, which earned 18 Capital Emmy Awards—its highest total in a single year. The awards were presented by the National Capital Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences during a ceremony held on June 21. The award winning Chesapeake Bay Summit 2024: Course Correction is available to stream here, and the full awards program is available to watch here.