Journalist. Moderator. Scholar. Trailblazer. These four terms only break the surface of the complex and distinguished person that is Gwen Ifill. 

Born the daughter of a minister, Ifill was a fifth child who was born in New York City. She is a 1977 graduate of Simmons College in Boston with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications. Ifill received hands on experience in the field of journalism through an internship. 

Career

Upon completing college, Ifill both interned and worked full-time at the Boston Herald-American as a reporter. She found her niche in politics and utilized it in her career at Baltimore’s Evening Sun. It was in this position that Ifill was exposed to her first on-camera role as the host of a news show for a local television station.

Ifill’s career has also included work writing at publications such as the Washington Post and The New York Times. Her television career is comprised of work at NBC News as a congressional correspondent. She has also appeared on political shows such as Meet the Press and Washington Week.

She has moderated two vice presidential debates. In 2004 she moderated the debate between Republican, Vice President, Dick Cheney and Democrat, John Edwards. In 2008, she moderated the debate between Democratic Senator, Joe Biden and Republican, Governor Sarah Palin. Gwen Ifill is also the holder of 15 honorary degrees.

Author

Gwen Ifill’s is the author of the book, The Breakthrough: Politics and Race in the age of Obama. This book examines President Barack Obama’s victory and dissects its impact on American culture. The book also profiles leaders such as U.S. Congressman, Artur Davis, Mayor, Cory Booker and Governor, Deval Patrick.

 Current Work  

As senior correspondent for PBS’ NewsHour with Jim Lehrer, Ifill has conducted interviews with high-level leaders, while dissecting the latest news. Ifill is the moderator and managing editor of Washington Week. With her clear aptitude in politics, Ifill has also filled in for Leher and served as anchor.    

Are you ready?  

If you are being lead to be the next Gwen Ifill, apply today. Since 1986, the Ohio and Illinois Centers for Broadcasting have taught all aspects of broadcasting to a generation of broadcasters through an intensive, hands-on program, instructed by the industry’s top professionals. The Centers for Broadcasting possess a unique mix of broadcasting leadership and experience, educational excellence, and use of cutting edge technologies, combined to solidify our position at the forefront of broadcasting education.   To request more information, connect with us today!