Grady James

Grady James

Grady James, a newspaper editor, a radio executive, and an advocate for the newspaper industry, impacted Norfolk State's legacy massively. In 1960, when Norfolk State University was still a division of Virginia State University, Dr. Grady James, a native of Ocala, Florida, arrived. He was appointed Director of the Educational Media Center, a role he had previously held at Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

A few years later, he created the first television studios for the organization, outfitting them with. During his time within the mass communications program at the school. He created a well-known communications conference at NSU. In addition, He brought notable businessmen and journalists, including Greg Gumbel, David Brinkley, and Carole Simpson. Furthermore, James produced radio and television shows, including the critically acclaimed public affairs program "Norfolk State Highlights."

In addition, He received five honors for his contributions to television and radio shows. His documentary "The State of the Welfare" won the title of best in-depth radio documentary report in 1971. The Virginia News Photographers Association and the Virginia Associated Press Broadcasters presented the prize. He has also been inducted into the Virginia Commonwealth Communications Hall of Fame, the Norfolk State University Athletic Hall of Fame, and the Hampton Roads Black Media Professionals Hall of Fame.

He belongs to the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated, the National Association of Black Journalists, the Virginia Association of Broadcasters, and the Hampton Roads Black Media Professionals. In addition, he has also served in the US Army.