Rita Deverell facts for kids

Rita Shelton Deverell is a well-known Canadian television broadcaster and social activist. She was one of the people who helped start a Canadian TV channel called Vision TV. She also worked as the news director for the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) from 2002 to 2005.

Born in Houston, Texas, in 1945, Rita moved to Canada in 1967. Her television career began in 1972 when she produced a children's TV show. In 1974, she joined CBC Television as a journalist. She even worked on a program called Take 30. Later, in 1983, she became a journalism professor at the University of Regina.

Starting Vision TV

In 1988, Rita helped create Vision TV. This was a big step in her career. Besides being an executive there, she also hosted many short segments between shows. People often noticed her because she wore a flower in her hair while hosting. Rita has also been on the board of the Obsidian Theatre Company. This is a Toronto company that focuses on plays by black Canadian writers.

Leading at Lakehead University

In 2021, Rita Shelton Deverell was named the chancellor of Lakehead University. This is a very important leadership role at a university.

Awards and Recognitions

Rita Shelton Deverell has received many important awards for her work. These awards show how much she has contributed to television and society.

Major Achievements

• She was named to Maclean's Honour Roll of Outstanding Canadians.
• She is also in the Canadian Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame.
• In 2005, she became a member of the Order of Canada. This is one of Canada's highest honors.
• She was named ACTRA's Woman of the Year in 2018.
• Rita has won two Gemini Awards, which are important awards for Canadian television.
• In 2022, she received the Governor General's Performing Arts Award. This award celebrates excellence in the arts.

Her Book

Rita has written one book. It is called American Refugees: Turning to Canada for Freedom.