It was my junior year of high school when I realized that I wanted to major in journalism and eventually be a broadcast journalist. My decision was not only based on my interests, but it was based on the influence that local news anchors had on me and on their community. Growing up, Jovita Moore was a household name. I admired her love for Atlanta, her love for people, and her dedication to her career. All of her accomplishments and hard work were a huge influence on the career path I chose and one of the primary reasons why I am still pursuing broadcast journalism as a soon to be college graduate.
Moore grew up in New York, but lovingly called Atlanta home where natives and colleagues recognized her tenacity, incredible work ethic, and talent. She had a strong passion for news that began at an early age and remained a critical piece of what is now her legacy. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Bennington College in Bennington, Vermont, she got an internship at the New York Times. Jovita was captivated by broadcast journalism so she went on to receive her Master’s of Science Degree in Broadcast Journalism from Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism in New York City. From there, her career in broadcast traveled from Fort Smith, Arkansas to Memphis, Tennessee. In 1998, Jovita found her home at ABC affiliate, WSB-TV, where not only her colleagues but the citizens whom she served would grow to love her. She moved to the main anchor desk in 2012, and traveled across the the world to deliver impactful stories to her community.
Jovita tackled tough issues and topics with grace including those personal and those specific to Atlanta. She covered stories regarding race and politics, topics that some would argue risked the division of the Atlanta community, but she knew the importance of these conversations. As a member of the National Association of Black Journalists, she inspired many young black journalists with her knowledge and served as a mentor to many including Kennesaw State University Alumna and CBS46 reporter, Iyani Hughes, who shared her sentiments on Instagram.
“My heart is broken,” she said. “Thank you for mentoring me and for being such a beautiful role model for young journalists and for the entire Atlanta community. Rest in power Ms. Jovita.”
Jovita was no stranger to vulnerability, as she shared her fibroids diagnosis and myomectomy procedure with the city of Atlanta in 2000. In April of 2021, she shared with viewers that doctors had discovered two tumors on her brain. She shared the news in hopes that it might help someone watching. When she was diagnosed with brain cancer, she shared that news as well.
“I was really concerned about why all of a sudden I was forgetful and disoriented and just not feeling myself” Jovita said.
Jovita was known nationally for her outstanding work as a broadcast journalist and most importantly for her heart. She made all those she came in contact with feel welcomed and like family whether she was doing community service or covering an event for the news. Atlanta remembers her as one of their own and has spread an outcry of love for her on social media.
To me, Jovita will always hold a special place in my heart, as I grew up watching her and now frequently get asked “Are you going to be the next Jovita Moore?” As a black woman pursuing broadcast journalism, her love for the community and dedication to impactful stories is something that I will always strive to carry with me.
Jovita passed with her loved ones surrounding her on October 28, 2021. She is survived by her two children, her stepdaughter, and her mother.
May Atlanta always remember the legacy and the life of Jovita Moore.