The Association for Women in Sports Media is pleased to announce Jim Jenks is the recipient of the 2023 Ann Miller Service Award, presented annually to an individual who has made significant contributions to the organization.

Jenks has been an AWSM member for more than 20 years. A past vice president and coordinator, he oversaw one convention and more than 10 regional events in Florida, New York and Pennsylvania. A frequent speaker at AWSM conventions and to student chapters, he funds one scholarship and half of a second one. A successful fundraiser, he has mentored numerous women from aspiring sports journalists to executives working in print, digital and broadcast roles.

“I am honored and very surprised to win the Anne Miller Award,” Jenks said. “My time spent with AWSM has been dedicated to doing the right thing through words and actions, but this organization and its people have done more for me than I have done for them. It has been a privilege to be part of such an inclusive membership.”

Jenks is the senior director for media productions at Perfect Game USA. He has more than 40 years of experience working in a wide range of roles, writing and editing for newspapers, developing websites and producing radio and television content. He previously held leadership roles at ESPN, The Philadelphia Inquirer, MLB Advanced Media and MLB Network.

“I’m thrilled AWSM is recognizing Jim Jenks’ immense contributions to our organization,” said Iliana Limón Romero, AWSM president and Los Angeles Times assistant managing editor for sports. “It is fitting Jim is the first male to receive this award. AWSM has always welcomed the support of male allies eager to champion our members as they push for equity. Jim has gone above and beyond to support AWSM and has shown his peers they can do more to help women working in all areas of sports media.”

Jenks said it has been easy to support AWSM through the years.

“Simply, AWSM is inclusive and AWSM is welcoming,” Jenks said. “It is an organization working to develop the next generation while remembering to honor its past. Over the years, it has allowed me as a male to be a peer and a mentor to some of the most talented journalists in the industry.”

Established in 2013, AWSM’s service award is named in honor of Ann Miller, a longtime Hawaii-based sports reporter who was the organization’s treasurer for its first 10 years, served as board chair and has attended nearly every convention despite the long travel distance.