On November 14, the journalism field lost one of its best journalists to breast cancer. Gwen Ifill, a prominent African American journalist, was the host of Washington Week and PBS NewsHour.
Paula Kerger President and CEO of PBS released the statement below:
“It is with extreme sadness that we share the news that Gwen Ifill passed away earlier today surrounded by family and friends.
Gwen was one of America’s leading lights in journalism and a fundamental reason public media is considered a trusted window on the world by audiences across the nation. Her contributions to thoughtful reporting and civic discourse simply cannot be overstated.
She often said that her job was to bring light rather than heat to issues of importance to our society. Gwen did this with grace and a steadfast commitment to excellence.
Our sorrow at her passing is a part of our profound gratitude for all that she did for our system and our nation. It was an honor to know Gwen and to work with her. All of us at PBS express our sincere condolences to Gwen’s friends and family.”
Her death led to many posts on social media by colleagues, politicians, fans, and more.
President Obama also made a statement regarding her death:
.@DonLemon to Gwen Ifill: “I won’t say goodbye, because goodbyes are so hard. But I will say, so long and thank you” https://t.co/xASSzEndZN
— CNN Tonight (@CNNTonight) November 15, 2016
Gwen Ifill’s death is a tragic lost. She was a serious, responsible and dedicated observer of and reporter about the modern world.
— Newt Gingrich (@newtgingrich) November 15, 2016
I first met Gwen Ifill when she was a reporter at @nytimes. She became a pioneering journalist at NBC + PBS. My prayers are with her family.
— Dan Rather (@DanRather) November 15, 2016
Oh my heart is breaking. Love you and miss you @gwenifill RIP
— Soledad O’Brien (@soledadobrien) November 14, 2016
I’m saddened to learn of the passing of @gwenifill. She was an amazing journalist and will be truly missed.
— Dr. Ben Carson (@RealBenCarson) November 14, 2016
