Anderson Cooper will receive the Vito Russo Award at the 24th annual GLAAD Media Awards, the New York Daily News reports. “Good Morning America” anchors Sam Champion, Lara Spencer and Josh Elliott will host the ceremony, which will be held on March 16 in New York.
The Vito Russo award, named for one of GLAAD’s founders, honors an openly gay media professional who has “made a significant difference in promoting equality.”
“By sharing his own experiences as a gay man, Anderson has reminded millions of Americans that LGBT people are part of their everyday lives and an integral part of our cultural fabric,” GLAAD president Herndon Graddick said in a statement. “He continues to raise the bar and set a new standard for journalists everywhere, and I’m proud to call him a friend.”