Lynn Sherr

Lynn Sherr is an acclaimed American broadcast journalist and author, best known for her long tenure as a correspondent for the ABC News program 20/20. Her distinguished career is marked by incisive reporting on a wide range of topics, from space exploration and science to social issues and politics, earning her prestigious honors including an Emmy Award and a Peabody Award. Beyond journalism, she is a noted author and a committed advocate for women's rights and public broadcasting.

Early life and education

Lynn Sherr was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and developed an early interest in writing and current events. She pursued her higher education at Wellesley College, a prominent liberal arts institution known for educating influential women. At Wellesley, she honed her skills in writing and critical analysis, graduating with a degree in English. Her academic foundation there prepared her for a career in the competitive field of journalism during a period of significant change for women in the workforce.

Career at ABC News

Sherr joined ABC News in 1977, quickly establishing herself as a versatile and trusted reporter. She became a fixture on the network's flagship news magazine, 20/20, where she served as a correspondent for more than two decades under anchors like Hugh Downs and Barbara Walters. Her reporting portfolio was exceptionally broad, encompassing major political conventions, groundbreaking scientific discoveries, and in-depth interviews with figures ranging from world leaders to cultural icons. She also contributed to other ABC programs, including World News Tonight and Good Morning America, providing analysis and special reports.

Notable reporting and awards

Sherr's journalism is distinguished by several landmark assignments and recognitions. She provided extensive and celebrated coverage of NASA's Space Shuttle program, earning her a reputation as a leading space reporter. Her work on the Challenger disaster investigation was particularly notable for its depth and sensitivity. She has received numerous awards for excellence, including an Emmy Award for her reporting, a Peabody Award for a documentary on breast cancer, and multiple Gracie Awards from the Alliance for Women in Media. Her investigative pieces on social justice and medical ethics have also been widely acclaimed.

Personal life and advocacy

Outside of her broadcasting career, Lynn Sherr is an active advocate for several causes. She is a passionate supporter of PBS and public broadcasting, having served on the board of the WNET group in New York City. A dedicated feminist, she has been involved with organizations like the Women's Media Center and is a vocal proponent of ERA ratification. She is married to lawyer and author Larry K. Grossman, a former president of NBC News and the Public Broadcasting Service. Her advocacy work often intersects with her professional interests in science and equality.

Published works

Sherr is the author of several non-fiction books that reflect the diversity of her reporting interests. Her works include *America the Beautiful: The Story of Our National Hymn*, which explores the history of the song *America the Beautiful*; *Failure Is Impossible: Susan B. Anthony in Her Own Words*, a biography of the famed suffragist; and *Sally Ride: America's First Woman in Space*, a definitive biography of the astronaut written with unique access. She has also contributed to publications such as *The New York Times* and *The Wall Street Journal*. Category:American television journalists Category:ABC News people Category:Wellesley College alumni