The Crusader staff expresses deep sorrow over the passing of Renee Ferguson, a distinguished figure in broadcast journalism and an unwavering advocate for truth, equity, and community.
Renee Ferguson passed away on June 8, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and colleagues who shared her passion for storytelling and justice.
Born on the South Side of Chicago, Renee developed a fascination with storytelling at an early age. Her youth was spent clipping articles that highlighted the rich yet often overlooked history of her city and its unsung heroes.
Renee’s commitment to journalism flourished during her time at Northwestern University’s Medill School, where she sharpened her reporting skills. Determined to amplify the voices of the unheard, she started her career at local public radio before joining WGN-TV in the early 1990s. Here, she achieved a significant milestone by becoming one of the first African American women to serve as a prime-time anchor in Chicago.
Her career, which spanned over three decades, showcased her relentless pursuit of the truth. Through dynamic investigations into critical issues like housing inequities, systemic racism within the criminal justice system, and healthcare disparities, Renee emerged as a stalwart of fearless journalism.
Renee frequently emphasized the importance of witnessing a story firsthand, famously stating, “You’ve got to see it to tell it.” This philosophy informed her approach to each assignment, whether she was reporting from Chicago’s city hall or engaging with residents in the city’s most underserved neighborhoods.
Her accomplishments in journalism were recognized with numerous accolades, including seven Chicago Emmy Awards and a prestigious Alfred I. duPont–Columbia Award. Furthermore, she received a Nieman Fellowship at Harvard, highlighting her unwavering dedication to impactful and investigative journalism.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Renee dedicated herself to mentoring young reporters of color. She nurtured the talents of countless individuals who went on to attain notable positions in broadcast and print media.
A fierce advocate for diversity in the newsroom, Renee’s efforts were vital in shifting the narrative surrounding representation in local media—a conversation that has grown increasingly important in recent years.
Colleagues remember her not only for her professional contributions but also for her warm personality. Behind the camera, Renee was known for her quick wit and infectious laughter, bringing light to the newsroom’s atmosphere. She often invested her time after hours to refine edits or offer guidance to young reporters grappling with their careers.
Renee’s legacy is further enriched by her husband, Ken Smikle, who passed away in 2018. Together, they shared a profound commitment to community advocacy. Their son, Jason Smikle, continues to honor their legacy through his dedication to media and social equity.
Renee’s impact endures in the numerous stories she told—narratives showcasing struggle, triumph, and the rich tapestry of Chicago life.
A public memorial will be held later this month at the Chicago Public Media Center, where friends, colleagues, and community members will converge to celebrate her life and legacy.
image source from：https://chicagocrusader.com/celebrating-the-life-of-renee-ferguson-a-trailblazing-voice-in-chicago-journalism/
