Richard E. Wiley to Receive First Amendment Award from the Radio and Television News Directors Foundation

January 25, 2008

The Radio and Television News Directors Foundation (RTNDF) has announced that Wiley Rein Managing Partner and former Federal Communications Commission Chairman Richard E. Wiley will be honored at its upcoming First Amendment Awards dinner for his many contributions to the industry. 

Mr. Wiley is often recognized for his illustrious career shaping communications law and policy.  A Broadcasting & Cable article profiling this year's RTNDF award winners recognized him as the "unofficial dean of DC communications attorneys" and he has been dubbed the "Father of High-Definition" television for his pivotal role in the development of HDTV in this country as chairman of the FCC's Advisory Committee on Advanced Television Service.

Today, Mr. Wiley heads the firm's preeminent Communications Practice and continues to play a significant role in the industry, representing numerous communications organizations, including Viacom/CBS, Gannett, Belo, Emmis, Gray Television, Verizon, SBC, BellSouth, Motorola, LG and the Newspaper Association of America, and speaking and writing on telecommunications and information law.

Every year the RTNDF honors individuals for their work on behalf of press freedom.  Mr. Wiley will receive the special recognition award at the foundation's March 6 dinner in Washington, DC.