The Why? Newton uses platforms such as LinkedIn and TikTok to help the network engage with new audiences, and she writes and distributes push notifications for the C-SPAN Now app to promote news and marketing efforts. She launched C-SPAN’s continuing internal newsletter “Water Cooler Chat” to keep employees connected while working remotely. Newton volunteers with Elon University Black Alumni Network Mentorship Program and serves on the board of the Washington DC/Baltimore WICT chapter.
She Says… “I’m happy to serve as a voice for people who look like me, have similar personal backgrounds and professional experiences.”
What roadblocks have you overcome when it comes to DEI? Throughout my career, I’ve often been the only woman of color sitting at the table. That comes with a unique set of challenges that I’ve turned into opportunities. Some may look at it as being the “token,” but I look at it as being the voice. I’m happy to serve as a voice for people who look like me, have similar personal backgrounds and professional experiences. If I wasn’t in the room, maybe there wouldn’t be anyone to represent the “Robins” of the world.
Song from your earlier days that’s still on your playlist? “Put Your Records On” by Corinne Bailey Rae
What community support initiative has your company championed that you’re most proud of? C-SPAN has a wonderful internship program and longstanding partnership with the Emma Bowen Foundation and T. Howard Foundation. I love that C-SPAN actively recruits minority students through both organizations, many of which I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know and working alongside. Since joining C-SPAN in 2015, I’ve had the honor of managing and mentoring more than a dozen interns. My time with them is always a professional highlight.
First internship: My first internship was with Black Entertainment Television (BET). I was a news intern in the DC Bureau, for the former BET Nightly News program hosted by Jacque Reid.