FAMU Journalism Grad Named 2007 "Distinguished Alumnus"

The Florida A&M University, School of Journalism and Graphic Communication (SJGC) has selected Africa Price as the 2007 recipient of the Thelma Thurston Gorham Distinguished Alumnus Award.

Price is the managing editor at the Tallahassee Democrat and a 1992 graduate of the FAMU School of Journalism and Graphic Communication.

“To say that Africa has distinguished herself in newspaper journalism would be an understatement,” said Jim Hawkins, dean, School of Journalism and Graphic Communication. “Her appointment as the Tallahassee Democrat’s managing editor signals the respect she has earned in newspaper journalism.”

Price will receive her award Thursday, November 1, during the school’s alumni homecoming luncheon. The luncheon, sponsored by the Tallahassee Democrat, will be at 12 noon in the school’s gallery, room 2015.

Before assuming her current position, Price worked as managing editor at the Jackson Sun in Tennessee. While there, the newspaper won several state and national awards, including one of a package that looked into a failing state health system.

She also has worked at The Times in Shreveport, La., as an education reporter, team editor and assistant managing editor.

The Thelma Thurston Gorham award is named in honor of the late Thelma Thurston Gorham. Gorham was the first instructor of journalism at FAMU. She also distinguished herself in being one of the few African-American women to work in newspaper journalism at a time when it was not fashionable for African Americans or women to work as newspaper journalists.

“Price clearly reflects the level of achievement deserving of the Thelma Thurston Gorham award,” Hawkins added. “The School of Journalism and Graphic Communication applauds and congratulates Africa on her accomplishments.”