39 Facts About Cokie Roberts

Early Life and Education

Cokie Roberts, a name synonymous with journalism, had a fascinating early life that shaped her career.

1. Born on December 27, 1943, in New Orleans, Louisiana, she was named Mary Martha Corinne Morrison Claiborne Boggs.
2. Her parents, Hale and Lindy Boggs, were both prominent political figures. Her father served as a Democratic Congressman, and her mother succeeded him after his disappearance.
3. Cokie attended the Academy of the Sacred Heart, a Catholic girls' school in New Orleans.
4. She later graduated from Wellesley College in 1964 with a degree in political science.

Career Beginnings

Roberts' journey in journalism began with humble steps, eventually leading to a stellar career.

5. She started her career in 1967 as a reporter for WNEW-TV in New York.
6. In the early 1970s, she worked as a foreign correspondent for CBS News in Athens, Greece.
7. Cokie joined NPR in 1978, where she became one of the "Founding Mothers" of the organization.
8. Her role at NPR included serving as the congressional correspondent for over a decade.

Major Achievements

Cokie Roberts' career was marked by numerous accolades and significant contributions to journalism.

9. She won three Emmy Awards for her outstanding work in broadcasting.
10. In 2000, she was inducted into the Broadcasting and Cable Hall of Fame.
11. Cokie received the Edward R. Murrow Award, one of the most prestigious awards in journalism.
12. She was named a "Living Legend" by the Library of Congress in 2008.

Books and Publications

Beyond broadcasting, Roberts was also a prolific author, contributing to literature and historical discourse.

13. Her first book, "We Are Our Mothers' Daughters," was published in 1998 and became a bestseller.
14. She co-authored "From This Day Forward" with her husband, Steven V. Roberts, in 2000.
15. "Founding Mothers: The Women Who Raised Our Nation," published in 2004, highlighted the contributions of women during the American Revolution.
16. "Ladies of Liberty: The Women Who Shaped Our Nation" followed in 2008, continuing her exploration of women's roles in history.

Personal Life

Cokie Roberts' personal life was as rich and fulfilling as her professional one.

17. She married Steven V. Roberts, a fellow journalist, in 1966.
18. The couple had two children, Lee and Rebecca.
19. Cokie and Steven were known for their strong partnership, both personally and professionally.
20. They often collaborated on writing projects and shared a deep commitment to family and faith.

Advocacy and Influence

Roberts used her platform to advocate for various causes and inspire future generations.

21. She was a strong advocate for women's rights and gender equality.
22. Cokie frequently spoke at events promoting journalism and media literacy.
23. She served on the boards of several non-profit organizations, including Save the Children.
24. Her influence extended to mentoring young journalists and encouraging them to pursue careers in media.

Later Years and Legacy

Even in her later years, Roberts continued to leave an indelible mark on journalism and society.

25. She remained active in journalism until her passing, contributing to both NPR and ABC News.
26. In 2017, she was awarded the Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism.
27. Cokie was known for her ability to explain complex political issues in an accessible way.
28. Her work helped shape public understanding of American politics and history.

Fun Facts

Here are some lesser-known but interesting tidbits about Cokie Roberts.

29. Her nickname "Cokie" was given by her brother, who couldn't pronounce "Corinne."
30. She was a devout Catholic and often spoke about her faith.
31. Cokie loved to cook and often shared recipes with friends and family.
32. She had a cameo appearance in the TV show "Murphy Brown."

Honors and Memorials

Roberts' contributions were recognized through various honors and memorials.

33. In 2019, she was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
34. The Cokie Roberts Trailblazer Award was established to honor women in journalism.
35. A scholarship fund in her name supports young women pursuing careers in media.
36. The Newseum in Washington, D.C., features an exhibit dedicated to her work.

Final Years

Cokie Roberts' final years were marked by continued dedication to her work and family.

37. She battled breast cancer for many years, raising awareness about the disease.
38. Cokie passed away on September 17, 2019, at the age of 75.
39. Her legacy continues to inspire journalists and women around the world.

Cokie Roberts' Legacy

Cokie Roberts left an indelible mark on journalism and history. Her career spanned decades, during which she became a trusted voice in American media. Known for her insightful political analysis, she broke barriers for women in journalism. Her work wasn't just about reporting facts; it was about telling stories that mattered.

Roberts authored several books, shedding light on women's roles in American history. Her dedication to truth and integrity set a high standard for journalists everywhere. She received numerous awards, including three Emmys, highlighting her exceptional contributions.

Beyond her professional achievements, Roberts was a loving wife and mother. Her legacy continues through her impactful work and the lives she touched. Cokie Roberts remains a symbol of excellence, courage, and dedication in journalism. Her story inspires future generations to pursue truth and make a difference.