Jessica Savitch

Jessica Savitch was a groundbreaking American television journalist, author, and on-air news anchor whose career spanned from the late 1960s until her tragic death in 1983. Born in Wilmington, Delaware in 1947, she graduated from Ithaca College and became one of the first women to anchor a national evening news broadcast solo, serving on NBC Nightly News and as host of PBS’s Frontline . Her on-screen presence and dedication to storytelling paved the way for female journalists in an industry dominated by men.

Although best known for her journalism, Savitch also authored the memoir Anchorwoman in 1982, where she shared candid reflections on ambition, identity, and the pressures of television fame. Known for her candid and often poignant observations, one of her memorable quotes is: “For every two minutes of glamour, there are eight hours of hard work.” This statement underscores the realities behind the polished broadcasts and her relentless drive .

Her words frequently reveal a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by journalists and women in media. For example: “No matter how many goals you have achieved, you must set your sights on a higher one.” reflects her ambition and restless spirit, while “To get it first is important — but more important is to get it right” highlights her commitment to accuracy over sensationalism Jessica Savitch remains a powerful symbol of determination, professionalism, and the evolving role of women in broadcast journalism.