ABC News President is Morgan State’s 2023 Fall Commencement Speaker

By Zoe Earle

Kimberly Godwin, president of ABC News, will be the keynote speaker Friday at Morgan State University’s 10th Fall Commencement Ceremony.

In April 2021Godwin made history as the first Black woman in her position at the news network.

Godwin came from humble beginnings. She is a graduateof HBCU Florida A&M University, with a Bachelor of Science in journalism. She entered the workforce andGodwin worked her way up the ranks from reporter to executive.

Hours away from addressing the graduating class of over 500 students, Godwin is expected to share how her experiences as an undergraduate shaped her for success throughout her career.

Godwin’s appearance is especially important to the members of campus radio station WEAA and to students in School of Global Journalism and Communication because she is a trailblazer in their field.

“Kim is an instinctive and admired executive whose unique experiences, strengths and strategic vision made her the ideal choice to lead the outstanding news team at ABC and build their incredible success,” said Peter Rice, chairman of general entertainment content for Disney, which owns ABC.

Another example of a woman of color making exceptional strides inside major media executive ranks was Rashida Jones, appointed president of MSNBC, also in 2021. LikeGodwin, Jones is an HBCU alum. She earned Bachelor of Arts degree of Mass Media Arts from Hampton University.

Both women currently hold the highest obtainable positions in broadcast television.

Ashley Clarke, who is to receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Multimedia Journalism, said, “As a little girl, I didn't have much representation in the media to look up to. In a society where Black women are often put under limitations, Kimberly Godwin's presence at graduation paints a positive image of a Black woman in society,something we don't often get to see.

“Seeing Godwin tells me that barriers can be shattered. It's a powerful reminder that we, too, can achieve great heights, breaking free from stereotypes and creating our own paths.”

At the conclusion of Godwin’s commencement address, she is to receive an honorary Doctor of Public Servicedegree, presented by University President, David K. Wilson.

The writer is a multimedia journalism major in the School of Global Journalism and Communication