The Media Institute honored Barbara Cochran, president of the Radio-Television News Directors Association, and Cablevision Systems Corporation Chairman Charles Dolan on October 10, 2001 at its annual Friends & Benefactors Awards Banquet at the Four Seasons Hotel in Washington, D.C. Cochran received the Institute's Freedom of Speech Award, while Dolan was presented with the American Horizon Award.

CNN anchor and senior correspondent Judy Woodruff presented Cochran with the Freedom of Speech Award, which is given to an individual whose efforts have helped to advance freedom of expression. As president of RTNDA, Cochran led the organization in several First Amendment battles, including its successful campaign to repeal the FCC's personal attack and political editorial rules.

Former FCC chairman William Kennard presented the American Horizon Award to Dolan. The award recognizes leadership in promoting the vitality and independence of American media and communications. Dolan, who founded HBO in the early 1970s, has made Cablevision one of the nation's leading telecommunications and entertainment companies.

The master of ceremonies for the evening was communications attorney and former FCC chairman Richard E. Wiley. Rep. Fred Upton (R-Mich.), chairman of the House Telecommunications and Internet Subcommittee, served as the event's keynote speaker.