Robin Roberts, the celebrated anchor of ABC's Good Morning America, has carved out an extraordinary career in journalism. Her journey began on the basketball court at Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU), where she earned an athletic scholarship and became one of the school’s all-time leading scorers and rebounders, amassing 1,446 points during her collegiate career. Her excellence as a player not only defined her early years but also laid the foundation for her future success.
From Basketball to Broadcast Journalism
After graduating as salutatorian from high school in 1979, Robin enrolled at SLU, where she quickly established herself as a star player for the women's basketball team. Her dedication and talent earned her recognition both on and off the court. Following her graduation, Roberts transitioned into broadcast journalism, leveraging her communication skills and charisma to become one of the most respected figures in the industry. Among her many accolades is the prestigious Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism.
A Trailblazer in Sports Media
Roberts made history as a sportscaster on ESPN, where she worked for 15 years (1990–2005). She broke barriers by becoming the first woman to co-host NFL Primetime, showcasing her versatility and expertise in sports media. Her ability to connect with audiences and deliver compelling stories propelled her to new heights when she joined Good Morning America as co-anchor in 2005. Under her leadership, the show won three consecutive Emmy Awards for Outstanding Morning Program, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer in the field.
Honoring Excellence: Seton Hall University’s Center for Sports Media
The establishment of Seton Hall University’s Center for Sports Media represents another forward-thinking initiative under the guidance of Dr. D., interim dean of the College of Communication and the Arts. In recognition of her contributions to sports media, Robin Roberts will be honored with the Lifetime Professional Achievement Award at the gala inaugurating this center. This award acknowledges her enduring impact on the industry and serves as a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence.
A Legacy Rooted in Service
Beyond her professional achievements, Roberts embodies the values of service and community engagement. Her influence extends far beyond television screens; she inspires countless individuals through her work ethic, resilience, and generosity. For example, during World War II, her father, Lawrence Roberts—one of the famed Tuskegee Airmen—served his country with distinction. Inspired by his example, Robin continues to make a difference, whether it’s through her reporting or philanthropic endeavors.
Returning to Her Roots
In recent years, Robin Roberts has revisited her alma mater, SLU, to celebrate her roots and inspire current students. Crowds of students, faculty, public officials, and residents gathered enthusiastically to welcome her back. During these visits, she often reflects on her playing days and shares insights about how her experiences shaped her life. On social media platforms like Instagram, she fondly recalls her time at SLU, posting heartfelt messages such as, “Happy #ThrowbackThursday...all this talk about college basketball stars has me reminiscing about my playing days at @oursoutheastern…#LionUp!” These moments highlight her genuine connection to her past and her ongoing support for young athletes.
An Academic Perspective
Dr. Robin W. Roberts, a distinguished professor at the University of Central Florida (UCF), further enriches the conversation around ethics and responsibility in business and accounting. As the Al and Nancy Burnett Eminent Scholar Chair in Accounting and Pegasus Professor, he focuses on critical issues such as corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and social accountability. With over 60 refereed journal articles published in esteemed publications like the Accounting, Auditing & Accountability Journal, his scholarly contributions underscore the importance of integrity and transparency in modern organizations.
Conclusion: Celebrating a Remarkable Career
Robin Roberts stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring journalists, athletes, and professionals across industries. From her early days dominating the basketball court at Southeastern Louisiana University to her illustrious career in broadcasting, she exemplifies what it means to pursue excellence with passion and purpose. Whether breaking barriers in sports media or honoring her educational roots, she remains committed to uplifting others and leaving a lasting legacy. The world is undoubtedly better because of her presence and contributions.
