Tony Brown

1989 Solomon Carter Fuller Award Recipient

Lecture Title: A Plan for the 90's

Mr. Brown, an American journalist, academic, and businessman, draws from his childhood experiences of segregation and poverty to inform his activism and perspective on the U.S. government. Renowned as the commentator of the long-running syndicated television show Tony Brown's Journal, he has left a significant mark on media and academia.

His journey began with service in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955, followed by earning a BA in Sociology from Wayne State University in 1959. He furthered his education with an M.A. in Psychiatric Social Work from Wayne State University in 1961. Mr. Brown's career encompasses diverse roles, including faculty positions at Central Washington University and Federal City College, as well as a stint as a drama critic for the Detroit Courier in 1962.

In 1972, he took on the role of founding dean at Howard University's School of Communication. Under his leadership, the Black Journal was renamed Tony Brown's Journal in 1977. He authored "Empower The People: A 7-Step Plan to Overthrow the Conspiracy that is Stealing Your Money and Freedom," reflecting his commitment to empowering communities.

Recognized for his contributions, Mr. Brown was inducted into the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences' Silver Circle in 2002. Later, in 2004, he assumed the position of dean at Hampton University's Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications, holding this esteemed role until 2009. In acknowledgment of his impact, he was honored with the Solomon Carter Fuller Award in 1989.