For decades, women in broadcasting have had to break barriers and challenge expectations in an industry that often sidelined their contributions. Yet, despite these obstacles, countless women have shaped the landscape of radio and television with their talent, innovation, and dedication. Their voices have informed and inspired us, even when they weren’t always given the credit, recognition, or opportunities they deserved.
As a young woman pursuing journalism myself, the three women I researched for Women’s History Month have made me feel inspired and empowered to continue to work hard and create meaningful journalistic works like they have. Their stories deserve to be told, their impact remembered, and their legacies honored.
Jane Pauley
Jane Pauley is an award-winning journalist known for her decades in broadcast news. She co-hosted Today (1976–1989), anchored Dateline NBC, and now leads CBS Sunday Morning. Beyond journalism, she advocates for mental health awareness, sharing her experience with bipolar disorder.
To read more about Jane Pauley, check out her profile.
Lori Bullerdick
Lori Bullerdick is a retired photojournalist who spent 38 years covering major global events, including the Arab Spring and the Haiti Earthquake. A Terre Haute native, she earned seven local Emmy awards for her impactful storytelling.
To read more about Lori Bullerdick, check out her profile.
Karen Rariden
Karen Rariden spent 42 years in broadcast journalism, leading newsrooms and shaping coverage from Terre Haute to New York. She helped KYW in Philadelphia win the 2006 Edward R. Murrow Award and navigated the industry’s shift to digital while staying committed to impactful storytelling.
To read more about Karen Rariden, check out her profile.
March 2025
By Katherine Maners
Katherine Maners is a freshman Ernie Pyle Scholar at the IU Media School in Bloomington. She is from Brownsburg, IN. She is a writer for the Indiana Broadcast History Archive and a photographer for the Indiana Daily Student and the IU Media School Communications Team.