The brilliant mind behind a record-setting television network launch, the creation of college football’s Bowl Championship Series, and the growth of other major networks will soon be honored for a career that started at Haverford College.

Major League Baseball COO Tony Petitti will receive the 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award from New York Festivals at an April 25 gala in Las Vegas.

“Since 2008, Tony has been an outstanding executive within the Major League Baseball family and also one of our most respected individuals,” Commissioner Robert D. Manfred Jr. said. “He accomplished so much in sports television, and we are fortunate to now have his leadership and creativity as our COO. All of us at MLB congratulate Tony on this prestigious honor.”

The Haverford College alum took his economics degree to Harvard Law School, and found his way to the executive suite at ABC Sports in 1988. From there, he served at the top of NBC Sports, CBS Sports, the MLB Network, and finally MLB. Haverford College recognized his talents and accomplishments a decade ago with the 2006 Lawrence Forman Award for athletes who devote their energy toward the betterment of society.

“I am extremely honored by this recognition from New York Festivals Television & Film Awards,” Petitti said. “It is humbling to be amongst the many accomplished individuals who have received this distinction.

“I have been fortunate to have worked with so many talented people throughout my career at ABC Sports, CBS Sports, and Major League Baseball, and consider this award to be a reflection of everything we were able to accomplish together.”