This November, the National Association of Black Journalists – St. Louis (NABJ-STL) will host one of the most anticipated events in the local media community: the 2024 Living Legends Honors. On Saturday, November 9, 2024, at 5 PM, the prestigious ceremony will take place at Nine PBS, located at 3855 Olive Street, St. Louis. This year’s honorees include three trailblazing figures in St. Louis journalism: Julius Hunter, Alvin Reid, and Kelly Jackson. Each has made significant contributions not only to journalism but also to the advancement of Black media professionals in the region.

Honoring St. Louis Journalism Giants

The Living Legends Honors isn’t just an event to celebrate accomplished journalists — it’s a platform to recognize those who’ve used their voices to create change, foster community, and mentor the next generation of storytellers. Latonya Yarbro, president of NABJ-STL, put it best: “This year’s honorees exemplify what our organization is about—supporting and celebrating Black journalists and communicators in the St. Louis metro and beyond.” Let’s take a closer look at the esteemed 2024 Living Legends honorees:

Julius Hunter: A name synonymous with pioneering journalism in St. Louis, Julius Hunter is best known for his work as the city’s first African American primetime news anchor. With a career spanning 33 years between Channel 4 and Channel 5, Hunter not only broke barriers on-screen but also became a key figure in the community. His work as an author, historian, and philanthropist has left a mark on St. Louis, particularly his efforts to document the rich history of the Central West End. From radio talk shows to lecturing and even music, Hunter’s legacy transcends the newsroom.

Alvin Reid: With nearly 30 years in journalism, Alvin Reid is a media mainstay in St. Louis. Known for his sharp commentary on PBS’ local program “Donnybrook” and his role as the city editor for the St. Louis American, Reid’s career has been nothing short of impactful. From his early days at the Globe-Democrat to his work with the St. Louis Business Journal and beyond, Reid’s voice has been a steady, insightful presence in the city’s media landscape. His commitment to sports journalism and beyond has made him a respected figure, both locally and nationally.

Kelly Jackson: A familiar face to St. Louis viewers, Kelly Jackson has spent decades delivering news on KSDK’s “Today in St. Louis” and more recently, the 5 p.m. news. With a career that spans from Quincy, Illinois, to Sacramento, California, Jackson’s return to St. Louis has been marked by her dedicated work as a mentor and anchor. Whether she’s behind the desk or guiding the next generation of on-air talent, Jackson’s influence in the newsroom is undeniable.

A Night of Inspiration and Legacy

The Living Legends Honors is more than an awards ceremony—it’s a celebration of legacy. Co-chair Ja’Quis Hardin shared, “The Living Legends Honors is a truly special event that brings immense pride and joy to its recipients. We are so thrilled to host this prestigious ceremony at the Nine PBS event space for the first time.”This year’s event promises to be an inspiring night of reflection on the contributions of these media titans, while also looking toward the future of journalism.

Tickets are $50.00 each and can be purchased on Eventbrite. If you’re passionate about supporting Black media professionals, this is a night you don’t want to miss.Mark your calendars for November 9, 2024, as NABJ-STL brings the community together to honor the trailblazers who have shaped the landscape of journalism in St. Louis and beyond. It’s not just about recognizing the past—it’s about uplifting the present and inspiring the future.

DeWarren Smith
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