Melissa Block, National Public Radio (NPR) co-host of “All Things Considered,” is the recipient for the 2019 Edward R. Murrow Lifetime Achievement Award.

“Tonight, we honor a journalist who personifies Murrow’s ethical courage and commitment to seeking and telling the truth,” WSU President Kirk Schulz said.

Faculty members from the Edward R. Murrow College of Communication nominate those who best uphold the ideals Murrow had throughout his career.

“[Block’s] program is ‘All Things Considered’ and when I hear her segment on the radio I very much enjoy it, I think it’s a great program,” said Stanley Linden, former WSU English professor.

Schulz said Block rose through the ranks to become the senior producer for All Things Considered, her reporting has taken her throughout the world, which resulted in numerous awards.

“I have listened to NPR, so I’ve grown up listening to [Block], and it was really cool to be able to come and see her,” said Olivia Canfield-Cole, a junior strategic communication and communication and society double major.

Sara Blackwell, freshman journalism and media production major, said many students come to see how one can get where they want to go in life and Block is a major example of that.

“My immediate reaction [to receiving this award] was one of outright alarm, because I thought it meant I was ready to retire,” Block said. “My second reaction was followed by how I could possibly be getting a lifetime achievement award when I feel like just now after 34 years figuring out how to do this radio thing.”

Schulz said this is recognition for decades of incisive reporting that has made her one of NPR’s most trusted and familiar voices.

“My alarm and distress are now overwhelmed by deep gratitude and joy of being in the company of so many journalists whose work I’ve admired for decades,” Block said.

Schulz said Block has earned many awards for reporting on controversial issues like gun violence and opioid addiction.

“Ms. Block has eloquently covered the most pressing issues of today and has done so without bias, while demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the truth,” he said.

Block said she is humbled for getting an award from the legacy of Murrow and gives great reason for going back and listening to Murrow’s riveting broadcasts from World War II.

“What I’ve tried to do in the years since, was to take you with me,” Block said. “I want to bring the listener there with me to all these places I report on not just for the visceral experience but also to get you to see life from someone else’s perspective.”