A giant of Black journalism, education, and truth-telling, dies at 93.
Hampton, Va. (June 30, 2026) — Hampton University mourns the passing of Tony Brown, Dean Emeritus of the Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications, who passed away on June 17, 2026, at the age of 93. A pioneering broadcaster, educator, author, and civil rights advocate, Brown’s groundbreaking work transformed American media and elevated Black voices for more than four decades.
Best known as the longtime host and executive producer of Tony Brown’s Journal, Brown built one of the most influential careers in American broadcasting history while remaining deeply committed to education and the advancement of historically Black colleges and universities. He served as the inaugural dean of Hampton University’s Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications from 2004 to 2009, helping shape the next generation of journalists and communicators.
A Foundation Built on Educations and Service
Born William Anthony Brown in Charleston, West Virginia, Brown was a proud graduate of Garnet High School, an all-Black institution that helped shape his lifelong commitment to education, leadership, and service. Excelling in English, drama, and athletics, he demonstrated early talents that would define his future, including performing scenes from Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar on Charleston radio shortly before his graduation in 1951.
Following military service in the United States Army from 1953 to 1955, Brown attended Wayne State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in sociology and psychology in 1959 and a master’s degree in psychiatric social work in 1961. His early work as a social worker deepened his understanding of communities and social inequities, experiences that later informed his groundbreaking work in journalism. He was also a devoted member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., embracing a tradition of scholarship, leadership, and civic engagement.
Brown began his journalism career in 1962 as a drama critic for the Detroit Courier, quickly rising to editor. By 1968, he transitioned into public television at WTVS in Detroit, producing Colored People’s Time, one of the nation’s first television programs created specifically for Black audiences, as well as the community-focused program Free Play.
A Voice for Civil Rights and Economic Empowerment
Activism remained central to Brown’s life’s work. Dubbed “Television’s Civil Rights Crusader” by Black Enterprise, he organized a 1963 civil rights march in Detroit featuring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. that drew an estimated 500,000 participants and is believed to have included one of the earliest public deliveries of King’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech.
Brown also founded Black College Day in 1980 to encourage students to attend historically Black colleges and universities, an observance now recognized nationally by Congress. Through the Council for the Economic Development of Black Americans and his “Buy Freedom” initiative, he championed economic empowerment and support for Black-owned businesses.
Shaping Future Journalists at Hampton University
In 2004, Brown joined Hampton University as the inaugural dean of the Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications, serving until 2009. His leadership helped elevate the school’s national reputation and strengthened opportunities for aspiring journalists and media professionals.
In recognition of his extraordinary contributions, Hampton University inducted Brown into the Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications Hall of Fame in 2012.
“Tony Brown was a giant in American journalism whose unwavering pursuit of truth and commitment to excellence inspired generations,” said President Darrell K. Williams ’83. “His leadership helped strengthen Hampton University’s legacy of producing communicators who use their gifts in service to society.”
Current Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications Dean Julia A. Wilson reflected on Brown’s enduring influence on the school and the profession.
“Tony Brown was more than an award-winning journalist; he was a visionary who expanded the role of journalism as a force for education, empowerment, and social progress,” said Dean Wilson. “Through his groundbreaking work in the media, he challenged generations to think critically, pursue truth with courage, and tell stories that elevated the Black experience with dignity and excellence. His extraordinary legacy will continue to inspire our students, faculty, and journalists to use the power of journalism and communication to inform, uplift, and create meaningful change.”
Brown’s remarkable legacy spans broadcasting, higher education, civil rights advocacy, and economic empowerment. He will be remembered for his enduring principles of self-help, diversity through excellence, and his timeless service to others.
About Hampton University
Hampton University is a prestigious Carnegie R2-designated research institution recognized for pioneering work in atmospheric science, cancer research, and cybersecurity. With an annual economic impact of $530 million across the Commonwealth of Virginia, Hampton remains a leading engine of innovation and workforce development.
Founded in 1868, Hampton serves a diverse community of scholars from 44 states and 32 territories. The university is committed to academic excellence, global citizenship, and preparing students to lead with purpose and integrity. Learn more at www.hamptonu.edu
