Albert Fitzpatrick facts for kids

Albert Fitzpatrick, also known as Al Fitzpatrick, born on December 30, 1928, is a famous journalist and media leader. He worked for the Akron Beacon Journal newspaper in Akron, Ohio, United States. He was the first African American to hold many important jobs there. He was also honored in the Hall of Fame of the National Association of Black Journalists.

Early Life and Education

Al Fitzpatrick was born in Elyria, Ohio, on December 30, 1928. He was one of twelve children. From a young age, he loved writing, especially during his high school years.

He went to Kent State University and earned a degree in journalism and sociology. Before starting his career, he served in the U.S. Army and Air Force during World War II and the Korean War.

Al Fitzpatrick is married to Derien Fitzpatrick. They have three children: Sharon, Karle, and Albert II. Today, he is retired and lives in Akron, Ohio.

A Career in Journalism

Al Fitzpatrick began his journalism journey in high school. He worked as a part-time sports reporter in his hometown. After college, he applied to many newspapers, but only one offered him an interview.

In 1956, at age 28, he joined the Akron Beacon Journal. He started as a reporter. He made history by becoming the first Black editor at the newspaper. His success encouraged more minority journalists to join the field. He was also one of the first African Americans to be accepted into the American Society of News Editors.

Important Roles and Awards

Al Fitzpatrick became well-known for his excellent reporting on the Kent State shootings. This important work helped him get promoted to news editor. In 1973, he became the managing editor, making him the first African American to lead a major newsroom. Four years later, he was named executive editor.

Later, he worked for Knight-Ridder, the company that owned the Akron Beacon Journal. He became the director of minority affairs and then vice president of minority affairs. In these roles, he helped bring more diversity to newsrooms.

He also shared his knowledge by teaching at Kent State University. He was even a chairman at Howard University for a short time. During his 29-year career, he held almost every job possible at a newspaper.

Key Journalism Work

One of his most famous achievements was his reporting on the Kent State shootings. This event happened on May 4, 1970, when a protest led to the deaths of four university students and injuries to thirteen others.

Working with other journalists, Al Fitzpatrick's team won the Pulitzer Prize for their coverage. This award is one of the highest honors in journalism. It greatly increased his recognition and fame.

Breaking Barriers

Al Fitzpatrick made a huge difference because he was one of the first African American men to succeed in mainstream newspapers. At the time, many people thought Black journalists could only work for African-American newspapers.

When he was about to graduate from college, a professor encouraged him to apply to the Akron Beacon Journal. He got an interview and was hired on February 13, 1956. He was determined to get a job in the newspaper industry, even when it was difficult for minorities.

Later in his career, he worked hard to make sure newspapers had more diverse staff. He believed that all journalists, no matter their background, should have the same opportunities.

Impact and Leadership

Al Fitzpatrick has held many important leadership roles. He was the president of the National Association of Black Journalists from 1985 to 1987. He also helped start the National Association of Minority Media Executives.

He served on the Minorities Committee for Southern Newspapers Association. He was also a board member of the American Society of Newspaper Editors. His work has helped open doors for many minority journalists.

Awards and Honors

• NABJ Hall of Fame
• Ida B. Wells Award Winner (1989)
• Robert G. McGruder Distinguished Guest Lecture Award (2005)
• Frederick Douglass Lifetime Achievement Award
• Chairman's Citation for Editorial Excellence
• Distinguished Service Award
• Hall of Fame of the National Broadcast Editorial Association
• Hall of Fame of the National Association of Black Journalists (2006)
• Elyria High School Hall of Fame

See Also

• National Association of Black Journalists Hall of Fame
• John L. Dotson Jr.