Matriarchs of the Pen: The Guiding Star – Deanna Sands
Matriarchs of the Pen: A series honoring my humble journalism beginnings
As the sun rises this Sunday, I'm excited to share the third article in my series, "Matriarchs of the Pen." This series, born out of immense gratitude and reverence, is dedicated to celebrating the luminaries who not only paved the way in the field of journalism but also played a vital role in shaping my own career trajectory. This week, we delve into the life of a woman who, against all odds, transformed her humble beginnings into a beacon for many — Deanna Sands.
It was during a trip to Mexico that the Universe conspired in my favor. Janet Raddish, my high school journalism teacher and a maestro at networking, met Sands, the then-managing editor of the Omaha World-Herald. Little did I know that a simple conversation between them would open a door to an unforeseen opportunity. My mother's voice, filled with excitement, informed me that someone from the Omaha World-Herald had been trying to get in touch. With a mix of curiosity and a bit of trepidation, I called back, only to be greeted by the assuring voice of Sands herself.
For a budding journalist like me, being personally invited by a titan like Sands to visit the iconic Omaha World-Herald was more than a dream come true. I still remember the awe I felt as I stepped into the 1930s Moderne architecture building on the corner of 14th and Dodge Streets. Every corridor echoed stories of the past, every brick exuding the legacy of this journalistic institution. Sands didn’t just give me a tour; she introduced me to the heart and soul of the newspaper - the reporters, editors, and every individual who brought it to life. As I sat in that large conference room, absorbing the discussions about tomorrow's news, I realized that journalism wasn't just about reporting; it was about creating history.
Deanna Sands
But who was Deanna Sands, and how did she carve her niche in this ever-evolving world of journalism?
Born and raised on a farm outside of Nebraska City, young Sands had dreams of becoming a history teacher. Yet, in a twist of fate during her high school years, she had an epiphany – journalism was her calling. This realization led her to the University of Nebraska, where she honed her skills and laid the foundation for a remarkable journey ahead.
Starting as a copy editor at the Omaha World-Herald in 1974, Deanna's career saw multiple facets, from Sunday editor to night news editor, before she took on the mantle of managing editor. Notably, she was the first woman to hold this prestigious position in the newspaper’s long history. During her tenure, she was more than just an editor; she was a mentor, a nurturer of young talent, and a guiding star to budding journalists like me.
Sands' achievements didn’t stop at the Omaha World-Herald. From her role on the national board of the Associated Press Managing Editors to being a mentor for the Freedom Forum’s program for Native American student journalists, her influence stretched far and wide.
However, behind this storied career, was a woman who believed in authenticity. In a field traditionally dominated by men, Sands chose not to fit into preordained molds. Instead, she reshaped the role, bringing her unique perspective, her passion, and her unwavering commitment to the table. For her, journalism was not about gender but about the zeal to inform, to educate, and to empower readers.
As I reflect on my interactions with her, I'm reminded of the persistence she showed in reaching out to me, her dedication to guiding young talent, and her passion for the written word. It's not an exaggeration to say that Deanna Sands didn't just impact my career; she transformed it.
As we continue our journey through the "Matriarchs of the Pen," let's take a moment to cherish the legacy of this extraordinary woman. For in the pages of history, her name will forever be etched as a beacon of inspiration for many more to come.
Stay tuned for the next chapter in this series, as we continue to honor the guiding lights in my journalistic journey.