Reese Schonfeld

Reese Schonfeld helped found the Cable News Network (CNN) and served as its first President and Chief Executive, where he originated and developed the 24-hour news concept.

Under his leadership CNN grew from a universe of 1.5 million homes to more than 15 million homes.

After leaving CNN, joined Cablevision Systems in New York where hedeveloped and oversaw “News 12” on Long Island, the first 24-hour local all news service.

In 1993 Reese launched The Food Network, the first 24-hour schedule covering food and the food industry.

The chefs he discovered and developed include Emeril, Mario Batali, Bobby Flay, Julia Child, Jacques Pepin, Marion Cunningham and Ruth Reichl.

The Food Network grew from 2 million homes to 20 million homes during his four year tenure.