Born: November 14, 1941 (Leesburg, Virginia)
Died: September 25, 2013
Biography:
Lee Thornton (November 14, 1941 – September 25, 2013) was an American journalist, correspondent, and professor who left an indelible mark on the field of journalism and became a trailblazer for African American women. Her career spanned several prestigious news organizations, including CBS, CNN, and NPR.
Born on November 14, 1941, in Leesburg, Virginia, Lee Thornton’s passion for journalism was evident from a young age. She graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1959 and later attended the former District of Columbia Teachers College. In 1968, she earned a master’s degree in rhetoric and public address from Michigan State University. Lee Thornton’s determination to excel in her field led her to Northwestern University, where she obtained her doctorate in 1973.
In 1974, Lee Thornton joined CBS, marking the beginning of a remarkable career. Her talent and dedication quickly garnered her recognition, and in 1977, she was promoted to cover President Jimmy Carter’s Administration, becoming the first African American woman to cover the White House. This groundbreaking achievement shattered racial barriers and opened doors for future generations of African American women in journalism.
After her time at CBS, Thornton’s career took her to a CBS affiliate in Detroit before she embarked on a new endeavor at National Public Radio (NPR). In 1982, she joined NPR’s All Things Considered news program as a weekend host, becoming the first black woman to hold such a position. Her voice resonated across the airwaves, delivering insightful and thought-provoking commentary to listeners nationwide.
In her unwavering commitment to journalism, Lee Thornton also embraced a passion for teaching. She began her academic career at Howard University, where she served as a professor of broadcast journalism. Her knowledge, expertise, and real-world experience provided invaluable guidance to aspiring journalists. After her time at Howard, she joined the Phillip Merrill College of Journalism at the University of Maryland, College Park, in 1997. During her tenure, she not only taught journalism but also produced several programs, notably the Front and Center program.
Thornton’s contributions to journalism and academia did not go unnoticed. In 2008, she was appointed as the first Eaton Broadcast Chair and served as an interim dean at the University of Maryland. This groundbreaking achievement made her the second African American woman to hold a dean position at a major institution. Her impact extended beyond the classroom, shaping the future of journalism and fostering inclusivity.
Throughout her illustrious career, Lee Thornton’s work exemplified excellence, integrity, and a commitment to truth. Her dedication to her craft left an indelible mark in the annals of journalism, and she inspired countless individuals to pursue their passion fearlessly, regardless of their background.
Lee Thornton’s exceptional contributions to the field of journalism were recognized posthumously, as she was inducted into the National Association of Black Journalists Hall of Fame in 2013. Her legacy lives on as a pioneer who broke barriers, paved the way for future generations, and left an enduring impact on the field of journalism and society as a whole.
Awards:
– Inducted into the National Association of Black Journalists Hall of Fame in 2013.