Former BET Chairman Debra Lee Named to AT&T Board of Directors

Lee began her career with BET as its first VP and General Counsel in 1986, was elevated to president and COO in 1996 and became chairman and CEO in 2005, a position she held until her retirement last year. Under her leadership, the network launched such hit series as Being Mary Jane, The New Edition Story and Black Girls Rock! as well as the BET Awards and BET Honors.

“Debra’s outstanding leadership, deep expertise and strong track record in the entertainment and media industry will be terrific additions to our board of directors,” said AT&T chairman and CEO Randall Stephenson in a statement. “Her unique perspective as a media industry leader and operations executive, and her lifetime commitment to community service give her valuable insights I look forward to having on our board.”

Lee is also the founder of Leading Women Defined, an annual gathering of prominent African-American women, and currently serves on the boards of Marriott and the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. In 2011, she was appointed to the White House Management Advisory Board by President Barack Obama during his tenure.