Ann B Walker: Columbus Broadcasting Pioneer and Ohio Trailblazer Dies at 101
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ann B Walker, a trailblazer in Ohio journalism and a beloved voice in the Columbus Black community, passed away on October 5, 2025, at the age of 101. Walker made history as the first woman broadcaster to cover the Ohio Statehouse, breaking barriers for women and minorities in media.
NBC4 anchor and Columbus Association of Black Journalists President Kerry Charles described her passing as “a great loss”, acknowledging her influence and mentorship. “She opened doors for so many women and people of color in broadcasting,” Charles said. “Her wisdom and support will forever be remembered.”
A Life of Firsts and Unmatched Influence
Born in Columbus on November 1, 1923, Ann B. Walker graduated from East High School before attending Prairie View A&M College in Texas on a tennis scholarship. She later earned her bachelor’s degree from George Williams College in Chicago in 1944.
Walker began her journalism career in 1949 with the Ohio Sentinel, one of the city’s first Black newspapers. In the 1960s, she joined WVKO-AM Radio, where she served as both an on-air personality and station leader.
In 1972, Walker joined WLWC-TV (now NBC4 Columbus), where she worked as a producer, community services director, and became the first woman in broadcast management at the station. She also created an internship program to inspire future broadcasters.
National Recognition and Lasting Legacy
Her remarkable work earned her a place in the Ohio Women’s Hall of Fame (1978) as the first woman to cover the Ohio Statehouse. Two years later, President Jimmy Carter appointed her as a Special Assistant to the Director of the White House Public Affairs Office, making her the first Black woman from Franklin County to hold a White House appointment.
Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin praised Walker as “a leader who fought for justice and equal opportunity for women and African Americans.”
Her influence reached beyond Ohio. The King of Ghana honored Walker with the title of Queen Mother of Mozano Village, recognizing her cultural and community contributions. During her time on the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Board, she also organized educational trips to Africa, strengthening international ties.
Honors and Remembered Grace
Former Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman called her a “symbol of pride” and “a queen in every sense.” Her regal presence inspired admiration and respect throughout her career.
In recent years, Columbus honored her legacy with:
- Ann B. Walker Plaza at the Adelphi Quarter Apartments
- A special NBC4 documentary
- A City Council proclamation ahead of her 100th birthday
As she once said in a 2021 Columbus Monthly interview:
“My mission was to open the door for at least one other person. But I was able to open it for many more, because once they saw the possibilities, they were willing to put forth the effort.”
Ann B. Walker’s century-long legacy continues to inspire new generations of Ohio journalists and community leaders.
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