Jon Yaged
Honoree
Jon Yaged is Chief Executive Officer of Macmillan Publishers. Jon previously served as President, Macmillan Publishers, and President & Publisher, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group. During his tenure as CEO and President, the company has recorded the highest revenue and operating income in its history. Over the course of his 20-year career in children’s publishing, Jon oversaw the publication of many bestselling books and series while working with critically acclaimed, award-winning authors and illustrators, including Katherine Applegate, Leigh Bardugo, Angeline Boulley, Eoin Colfer, Taye Diggs, Shane W. Evans, Jimmy Fallon, Jules Feiffer, the Jonas Brothers, Demi Lovato, Marissa Meyer, Rick Riordan, Mo Willems, and Gene Luen Yang. In addition to fostering publishing programs that are reflective of the communities in which we live, Jon is focused on leading a company that invests in its employees by creating a culture of collaboration, mentorship, and innovation. Jon began his publishing career at The Walt Disney Company, reaching the level of Vice President, US Publisher, Disney Book Group. He also served as Chief Operating Officer of a social media marketing company and, before joining Disney, he practiced entertainment and technology law. Jon currently serves on the Boards of the Association of American Publishers and the National Book Foundation. He is also a member of the Advisory Council for the National Coalition Against Censorship, and serves on the finance committee of The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. He has a JD from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from George Washington University. Jon lives with his family in New York City.
Artist‘s Statement
“Confidence, opportunity, and support. These are the words that come to mind when thinking of Girls Write Now and all that the organization encompasses. By pushing back on the systemic barriers of gender, race, and economic status, Girls Write Now gives girls from underrepresented backgrounds the confidence to make their voices heard and the opportunity to become the leaders of the future, while providing support throughout their journey.” – Jon Yaged, CEO, Macmillan Publishers.