Ken leads, advocates, and is committed to you.

Ken’s Story Is Your Story.

Ken is fighting for you. He confronts federal attacks on Black journalists and DEI and is working to protect federal policies that require diversity recruitment and reporting. Ken called out the Trump campaign for spreading lies that hurt the lives and livelihoods of Black journalists. He stands against federal interference in journalism and is meeting with leaders of news companies and organizations to press for support of Black journalists.

The Call to Lead. The Call to Serve. Ken Answers Them All.

Ken doesn’t just talk about leadership — he takes the call, literally and figuratively. At dawn, before stepping into the studio at WSOC-TV. At night, long after the headlines fade. He’s there — coaching students, mentoring peers, advocating for change.

Every phone call, every message, every moment — Ken shows up.
Because for him, leadership means listening. Advocacy means action. And NABJ means community.

“Ken leads with heart, humility, and presence—he sees every person in the room. I’ve watched him advocate fiercely and show up with unwavering care for our community.”

—Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon | Founding Chair of NABJ Wellness Task Force

CHAPTER PRESIDENTS ENDORSING KEN IN….

Baton Rouge

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Charlotte

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Birmingham

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Chicago

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Cleveland

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Denver

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Hampton

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Houston

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Greensboro

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Jackson

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Kansas City

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Little Rock

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Milwaukee

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New Orleans

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Raleigh

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Orlando

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St. Louis

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Baton Rouge • Charlotte • Birmingham • Chicago • Cleveland • Denver • Hampton • Houston • Greensboro • Jackson • Kansas City • Little Rock • Milwaukee • New Orleans • Raleigh • Orlando • St. Louis •

Ken Lemon in Action: Measurable Impact. Lasting Change

He Leads with Heart — That’s Why I’m Standing with Ken.

Rachel Scott is the senior political correspondent for ABC News, reporting across every major platform, including Good Morning America, World News Tonight with David Muir, Nightline, 20/20, and more.

In her video, Rachel shares why she’s proud to endorse Ken: “He leads with heart and stays calm under pressure.” Covering some of the most high-stakes moments in modern politics, Rachel knows what it means to have both grit and grace—two qualities she says define Ken’s leadership.

Watch why this trailblazing journalist says NABJ is lucky to have Ken—and even luckier that he wants to continue to serve.

He Listens — That’s Why I’m Standing with Ken.

Steve Osunsami is an award-winning senior national correspondent for ABC News, reporting for World News Tonight, Good Morning America, and more.

In his video, Steve shares why he’s endorsing Ken Lemon: “He listens—and we need that.” Having known Ken since the 1990s, Steve says Ken stands out because he shows up, stays engaged, and truly hears people.

Watch why this respected network journalist believes Ken is the kind of leader NABJ needs now.

I’m With Ken—And Here’s Why.

Kaci Jones anchors WCCB News and uses her platform to amplify truth and drive change.


She’s worked across the U.S., but says Ken stands out as a leader who listens and delivers. Watch her video to hear why this Florida A&M grad is casting her support for Ken Lemon.

Ken’s Leadership Builds the Future of Journalism.

Brandon Pope is an Emmy-winning journalist and President of NABJ-Chicago, committed to empowering the next generation.


From the White House to the locker room, his reporting spans politics, sports, and culture nationwide.
In his endorsement video, Brandon shares why Ken Lemon is the leader we need to protect and progress NABJ’s mission..

Ken Leads With Integrity—That’s Why I’m With Him.

Tonya Rivens is an award-winning journalist, longtime radio voice, and current president of the Charlotte Area Association of Black Journalists.

With over 30 years of knowing Ken, Tonya calls him a man of integrity, a relationship builder, and a true champion for the journalism profession. Watch her video to hear why this UNC Chapel Hill and Syracuse University alum is proudly supporting Ken.

Ken Always Answers the Call—That’s Why I’m With Him.

Nakia Cooper is an award-winning journalist, educator, and president of the Houston Association of Black Journalists.

She’s voting for Ken again because he cares—about students, fellow journalists, and the future of our industry. “Ken always answers the call,” she says. Watch why this digital media leader is standing with Ken.

Ken Showed Up for Us—That’s Why Philadelphia’s NABJ Chapter Stands With Him.

Michael Days is the president of the NABJ Philadelphia chapter and a respected newsroom leader who’s held top roles at the Philadelphia Daily News and the Philadelphia Inquirer.

When his chapter was just getting started, Ken Lemon showed up—offering support, encouragement, and guidance. In his video, Michael says his endorsement isn’t just personal—it reflects the full support of his board and membership. Watch why this veteran editor and champion for newsroom diversity is standing with Ken.

A Present President—That’s Why I’m Standing With Ken.

Jefferson Noël is a transformational leader, professor, and four-time author whose work bridges education, empowerment, and community action.

In his video, Jefferson shares why he’s endorsing Ken Lemon: “Ken is a present president.” He’s seen Ken attend local chapter meetings, show up at scholarship galas, and even stay for entire summits—fully engaged, not just making appearances. Jefferson says Ken connects with everyone, from veteran journalists to aspiring students, because he truly cares.

Watch why this nationally recognized speaker and advocate for youth and media equity believes Ken is the kind of leader NABJ needs now.

Support That Never Wavered — That’s Why I’m Standing with Ken.

Autumn Bracey is the Past-President of Tulsa’s NABJ chapter and a former anchor and reporter at News on 6. A proud graduate of NC A&T and Regent University, she’s a strong advocate for journalists of color.

In her video, Autumn shares why she’s voting for Ken: “He’s always been supportive.” Whether helping the chapter run smoothly or encouraging others behind the scenes, Ken consistently shows up.

Watch why this dedicated journalist and NABJ leader believes Ken is the right choice for NABJ.

A Proven Advocate — That’s Why I’m Standing with Ken.

Carmen Morris is the co-founder of the South Florida Black Journalists’ Association and Community Outreach Chair for the Miami-Dade County Public Schools Wellness Advisory Committee. She’s also held leadership roles with several community boards in South Florida.

In her video, Carmen shares why she’s voting for Ken: “He’s a strong pillar and a dedicated advocate.” From guiding NABJ through tough seasons to increasing financial support and standing up for journalists, Ken delivers.

Carmen says he’s ready to keep the momentum going—and she’s asking you to help take NABJ to the next level. “Together we can.”

He Shows Up. We Speak Up.

  • "Ken is a stand-up guy who has been on the battleground for Black journalists. I'm proud to support him for a second term."

    Melanie Burney Education Reporter | The Philadelphia Inquirer

  • Ken has proven time and again that he is an attentive leader who truly listens. He is always available, responsive, and willing to meet with local chapters, no matter the city or size. His presence is not just symbolic; it's consistent and committed.

    Charisse Gibson Anchor | WWL-TV, New Orleans

  • "Ken has been there, done that/still doing it and is committed to service."

    Cynthia Barnes Booker
    Media Educator | Cleveland Heights High School

  • “Ken has always supported us..”

    Caron LeNoir-Kelly Journalist & Producer | NBC

  • "Ken Lemon’s dedication to NABJ exemplifies his unwavering integrity and purpose—‘Trusted to Lead. Called to Advocate. Committed to You."

    Alexis M. Mitchell Digital Journalist | Families Against Mandatory Minimums

  • "Ken’s work speaks for itself, but more importantly, so does his character. He leads with heart, with vision, and with a fierce dedication to our mission. NABJ will be stronger with Ken continuing to lead us forward."

    Fred Shropshire / WCAU Evening Anchor, Philadelphia