The Humane Society of the United States held its 26th annual Genesis Awards ceremony this past weekend in Beverly Hills, Calif. Arthur E. Benjamin was in attendance, as a Silver Sponsor and member of their National Committee.

The Genesis Awards are presented to news and entertainment media members who make an impact on animal issues through raising awareness. Some of this year’s big winners were Ellen Degeneres, Ian Somerhalder and the film “Rise of the Planet of the Apes.”

“The news and entertainment industries wield great power and influence in this country,” Arthur said. “It’s great for HSUS to put on an event like this to honor the ones who are using that platform to make a real difference in the lives of animals.”

For the first year Arthur attended as a media advocate himself. As co-host of American Dog Rescue’s North Texas weekly TV show, he could better appreciate the hard work and contribution of the winners at the year’s awards!  Jill Rappaport of The NBC Today Show and he celebrated her repeated nomination and win at the front of the room.

For more information about the Genesis Awards, click here.