40 Facts About Peggy Noonan

Early Life and Education

Peggy Noonan's journey began in Brooklyn, New York, where she was born into a working-class family of Irish descent. Her upbringing and education laid the foundation for her future success.

1. Margaret Ellen Noonan was born on September 7, 1950, in Brooklyn, New York.
2. She was one of seven children in her family.
3. Her father worked as a furniture salesman.
4. Noonan graduated from Rutherford High School in New Jersey.
5. She earned her degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Career Beginnings

Noonan's early career in journalism and broadcasting set the stage for her later achievements in speechwriting and authorship.

6. After college, Noonan began her career in journalism.
7. She worked the overnight shift as a newswriter at WEEI Radio in Boston from 1975 to 1977.
8. By 1978, she had become the editorial and public affairs director at WEEI-AM, a CBS-owned station in Boston.
9. During this period, she won the Tom Phillips Award for broadcast commentary.
10. From 1978 to 1979, Noonan taught as an adjunct professor of journalism at New York University.

CBS News and Political Involvement

Noonan's work at CBS News and her support for Ronald Reagan marked significant milestones in her career.

11. In 1981, she was hired by CBS Radio to write daily commentary for Dan Rather.
12. This role lasted for three years and was highly regarded by both Noonan and Rather.
13. During her time at CBS, Noonan became an enthusiastic supporter of Ronald Reagan.
14. She sought to work in Reagan's administration and was introduced to the head of the White House speechwriting department through an editor at the conservative journal National Review.
15. In early 1984, Noonan joined the Old Executive Office Building, next door to the White House, where she began writing speeches for minor occasions for both President Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan.

Speechwriting Career

Noonan's talent for speechwriting became evident through her work for President Reagan and later for George H.W. Bush.

16. The turning point in her career came when she wrote remarks for President Reagan to deliver at Pointe du Hoc in Normandy on the 40th anniversary of D-Day.
17. These remarks were so well received that after meeting the President for the first time, he singled her out for praise.
18. In his second term, Noonan was named a special assistant to the President.
19. She was called upon to prepare some of his most important speeches, including the address after the explosion of the Space Shuttle Challenger on January 28, 1986.
20. The speech delivered by President Reagan after the Challenger disaster is frequently cited as one of the best American political speeches of the 20th century.

Post-White House Career

After leaving the White House, Noonan embarked on an independent writing career, becoming a bestselling author and influential columnist.

21. After George H.W. Bush’s victory in 1988, Noonan wrote President Reagan’s farewell address to the nation.
22. In 1988, Noonan was chief speechwriter for George H.W. Bush during his presidential campaign.
23. She coined the phrase "a kinder, gentler nation" and popularized "a thousand points of light," two memorable catchphrases used by Bush.
24. Noonan also wrote Bush’s acceptance speech at the Republican National Convention in New Orleans, where he pledged: "Read my lips: no new taxes."
25. After leaving the White House, Noonan embarked on an independent writing career.

Literary Achievements

Noonan's contributions to literature and journalism have earned her numerous accolades and a dedicated readership.

26. Noonan has authored nine books on American politics, history, and culture.
27. Five of her books have been New York Times bestsellers, including "What I Saw at the Revolution," "When Character Was King," "John Paul the Great," and "Simply Speaking."
28. In 2017, Noonan won the Pulitzer Prize for distinguished commentary for her weekly column, Declarations, which has run in The Wall Street Journal since 2000.
29. Noonan is a weekly columnist for The Wall Street Journal, where her column, Declarations, has been a staple since 2000.
30. She is also a contributor to NBC News and ABC News, providing insightful commentary on political events.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her career, Noonan has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to journalism and public discourse.

31. Noonan has been nominated for Emmy Awards for her work on America: A Tribute to Heroes and for her contributions to the television drama The West Wing.
32. In 1995, Noonan wrote and hosted a PBS series on the debate over American values.
33. In 1995, Noonan received the Golden Plate Award of the American Academy of Achievement, presented by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Edmund Morris.
34. Noonan has been a fellow at Harvard University’s Institute of Politics.
35. She has also taught at Yale University.

Personal Life and Legacy

Noonan's personal life and legacy continue to inspire future generations of journalists, authors, and public figures.

36. In 1985, Noonan married Richard Rahn, Chief Economist at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
37. They had a son, Will, but their marriage ended in 1989.
38. She and her son moved back to New York City.
39. Noonan holds honorary doctorates from Adelphi University, St. John Fisher College, Miami University, and her alma mater, Fairleigh Dickinson University.
40. Through her writings, speeches, and public appearances, Peggy Noonan has left an indelible mark on American politics and culture.

Peggy Noonan's Lasting Impact

Peggy Noonan's career is a testament to her influence on American politics and culture. From her early days as a newswriter to becoming a celebrated speechwriter for Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush, Noonan's words have shaped pivotal moments in history. Her work on the Challenger speech and Reagan's farewell address remains iconic. As a columnist for The Wall Street Journal, she continues to offer sharp insights and commentary. Noonan's books, many of which are bestsellers, delve into American politics, history, and culture, further cementing her legacy. Her accolades, including a Pulitzer Prize, reflect her significant contributions. Whether teaching at prestigious universities or engaging in public discourse, Noonan's impact is undeniable. Her journey from a working-class family to a respected voice in journalism and politics is truly inspiring. Peggy Noonan's legacy will undoubtedly influence future generations.