Susan Stamberg, a pioneering figure in American journalism and a founding member of National Public Radio (NPR), passed away at the age of 87. She was the first U.S. woman to anchor a nightly national news program and significantly shaped NPR's identity. Stamberg was celebrated for her humanitarian approach to journalism, as noted by her son, Josh, emphasizing her commitment to connection through ideas and culture. Her contributions earned her accolades from the National Radio Hall of Fame and the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
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For those outside the US, NPR = National Public RadioSusan Stamberg, an original National Public Radio staffer who went on to become the first U.S. woman to anchor a nightly national news program, died Thursday at the age of 87.
Few figures have informed the sensibility of NPR more than Stamberg. Colleagues considered her a mentor, a matchmaker, a founding mother — always tough, and always true to herself.
"A true humanitarian, she believed in the power of great journalism," Stamberg's son Josh said in a statement. "Her life's work was connection, through ideas and culture."
NPR host Scott Simon contended she was the first real human being to host a regular evening newscast. Stamberg even knit while sitting in front of the microphone at All Things Considered.
Stamberg's stories and segments over the decades spanned the human experience, from examining matters of state to illuminating pointillist details of artistic achievement. She would be recognized by her peers with honors from the National Radio Hall of Fame, the Hollywood Walk of Fame and more. She retired in September.