The Recording Academy Philadelphia Chapter Names Dawn Frisby Byers Executive Director

SANTA MONICA, CA. (Top40 Charts/ Recording Academy) - The Recording Academy today announced that it has named Dawn Frisby Byers as Executive Director of the Philadelphia Chapter. As Executive Director, Frisby Byers will develop and execute outreach programs, advocacy initiatives, professional education and special events for the Philadelphia Chapter. She will report directly to Nancy Shapiro, Vice President, Member Services, Regional Management.

"We are pleased to announce this new addition to our Chapter team as we grow and strengthen our membership programs and services," said President/CEO of The Recording Academy Neil Portnow. "Dawn's expertise and experience make her an excellent choice for this position and I look forward to working with her as we continue to serve the needs of our members throughout the Philadelphia area."

Prior to joining The Recording Academy, Byers was Vice President of Marketing and Communications for the Apollo Theater Foundation. There, she was responsible for the marketing and advertising of all Apollo productions, media relations, and soliciting and servicing corporate sponsors. Additionally, she led brand strategy efforts during the first phase of the landmark theater's restoration project and instituted new programming series and licensing agreements.

With more than 20 years of entertainment marketing experience, Byers previous positions include Director of Family Entertainment for Sesame Workshop (the parent company of Sesame Street), where she oversaw marketing and licensing of entertainment properties; and Account Supervisor for the entertainment advertising firm Grey Entertainment, where she managed the successful launch of Disney's The Lion King On Broadway. She began her career in the cable television industry, holding affiliate and consumer marketing positions with Bravo Cable Network, the Independent Film Channel, and HBO.
A native of Philadelphia, Byers holds dual degrees in Public Policy and Drama from Duke University and completed graduate work in Arts Administration at Drexel University.