Susan Stamberg, a trailblazing news host, passed away at the age of 87. She was a pivotal figure at National Public Radio (NPR) and the first woman to host a national news program.
Early Life and Career
Stamberg was born Susan Levitt in Newark, New Jersey, in 1938 and raised in Manhattan. She began her journalistic career in the early 1970s, joining NPR as the network was being established.
Groundbreaking Contributions
In 1972, Stamberg became the host of “All Things Considered.” At the time, women were underrepresented in broadcasting, and she often found herself imitating the male broadcasters of her era.
- Host of “All Things Considered” for 14 years
- Hosted “Weekend Edition Sunday” where she initiated the Sunday puzzle feature
- Became a cultural correspondent for “Morning Edition” and “Weekend Edition Saturday”
Influence and Legacy
Stamberg had a unique way of connecting with listeners. She created a new sound for NPR, moving away from the formal styles of that time. Her colleague Jack Mitchell noted her distinctive New York accent.
Throughout her career, she interviewed notable figures including:
- Nancy Reagan
- Annie Leibovitz
- Rosa Parks
- James Baldwin
Pioneering Female Broadcaster
Stamberg referred to herself as one of the “founding mothers” of NPR, along with Cokie Roberts, Nina Totenberg, and Linda Wertheimer. She coined the term to highlight the contributions of women in broadcasting.
In 1979, she hosted a historic two-hour call-in program with President Jimmy Carter from the Oval Office, where questions were not pre-screened. This event highlighted her ability to manage live interactions with the audience.
A Lasting Impact
Stamberg’s work earned her a place in the National Radio Hall of Fame. She was recognized for her conversational style and her ability to tell compelling stories.
In 2020, she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, further solidifying her legacy in journalism.
Stamberg is survived by her son, Josh Stamberg, and her granddaughters, Vivian and Lena. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on broadcasting and continue to inspire future generations of journalists.
