NBC Executive Meredith Ahr '97 Named 2015 Distinguished Alumnus
by Kathy Aiello, Ed. D.
As executive vice-president for alternative programming at NBC Entertainment, Meredith Ahr '97 (pictured - center with Director of Marketing, Branding & Alumni Relations Jessy Padon '01 - left and Alumni Council President Kristen Levere '93 - right) oversees all alternative series for both NBC and Universal Television. The Benjamin School Alumni Council named Ahr its 2015 Distinguished Alumnus at the annual Alumni Luncheon hosted May 21 in Benjamin Hall.
TBS coach and faculty member Ron Ream introduced the TBS alumna and shared some of her most recent successes, including the development of the Emmy-winning vocal competition series, The Voice. Ahr has also been integral to the development of several popular NBC franchises - like America's Got Talent, The Biggest Loser, Last Comic Standing, The Celebrity Apprentice, American Ninja Warrior and Hollywood Game Night.
Ream also conveyed fond memories of Ahr and her family while she was a student at TBS.
"I am deeply honored to be here today accepting this award and to have my family present here, too," said Ahr who shared the colorful journey of her career path with the audience. "Do not be afraid to seize opportunites when they might unexpectedly become available to you," advised Ahr who resides in Los Angeles. "You never know what doors may become open to you along the way if you work hard and learn from each experience."
Graduating seniors, school administrators, faculty members and alumni joined in the elegant luncheon celebration in the lobby of Benjamin Hall, following a welcome by Padon and congratulatory comments by Head of School Bob Goldberg and LeFevre.
Ahr now joins the ranks of Distinguished Alumnus award recipients, including Dr. Andy Larson '91, Rob Flournoy '85, John Matz '96, Lisa Arline '68, Congressman Tom Rooney '89 and Mark Swift '88.
A premier PK3 - Grade 12 independent, coeducational day school with campuses in North Palm Beach and Palm Beach Gardens. Since 1960, The Benjamin School has provided a challenging college preparatory education to a diverse student body in a structured, nurturing community environment.
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