Connie Chung: A Life in Journalism

Connie Chung, a trailblazing journalist who became the first Asian American woman to co-anchor a major network newscast, has had a remarkable career spanning over four decades.

• From humble beginnings: Born in Washington, D.C., in 1946, Chung's parents immigrated from China. She grew up in a working-class family and attended Montgomery Blair High School in Silver Spring, Maryland.
• Early career: After graduating from the University of Maryland, Chung began her journalism career as a reporter for WTTG, a local television station in Washington, D.C. She quickly moved up the ranks, becoming a news anchor and a correspondent for CBS News in 1971.
• Breaking barriers: In 1982, Chung made history when she became the first Asian American woman to co-anchor a major network newscast, alongside Dan Rather on the CBS Evening News. She held this position for four years, during which time she covered major events such as the Iran-Contra affair and the Persian Gulf War.
• Challenges and controversies: Chung's time at CBS was not without its challenges. She faced sexism and racism from both viewers and colleagues, but she persevered and became known for her tough interviewing style and her willingness to tackle difficult topics.
• Later career: After leaving CBS in 1989, Chung worked for NBC, CNN, and ABC, covering a wide range of news stories. She also wrote a memoir, "My Life on the Line," in which she shared her experiences as a journalist and a woman in a male-dominated field.
• Personal life: Chung is married to Maury Povich, a former television host. They have one son, Matthew Jay Povich.
• Legacy: Connie Chung's career has paved the way for other Asian American journalists and has inspired countless women and minorities to pursue careers in the media. She is a role model for those who have faced adversity and a reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusion in the newsroom.

Today, Connie Chung continues to work as a journalist and media commentator. She is a role model for young journalists and an inspiration for all who believe in the power of journalism.