Phyllis George: Shattering the Ceiling

Phyllis George was the first female anchor of a major network sports show and a pioneer in sports journalism. She broke through the glass ceiling in a male-driven industry and cultivated a reputation as one of the most respected and strong-willed players in the business. George was a published author, arts advocate, philanthropist, and First Lady of Kentucky. Her life was defined by her professionalism, strength of character, and ability to leave an indelible impression on all she met.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 20 September 2022
Publisher: The University Press of Kentucky

In 2019, the NFL released a comprehensive list of football's one hundred greatest game-changers, and among the illustrious athletes and coaches was a broadcaster who left an indelible mark on the sports journalism landscape: Phyllis George. The first female anchor of a major network sports show, George shattered the glass ceiling in sports journalism and embodied the complexities of the women's movement of the 1970s.

As a young woman, George first caught the media's attention in 1971 when she was crowned Miss America and embarked on a global tour. While many in the burgeoning feminist movement viewed pageant queens with disdain, George leveraged her success into a television career and excelled in sports journalism. Despite facing criticism, George remained undeterred and showcased her unwavering inner strength and perseverance. Over the decades, she cultivated a reputation as one of the most respected and formidable figures in the rugged and male-dominated industries of sports and network news, breaking through the glass ceiling in one of the most male-driven sectors worldwide. She was a trailblazer who paved the way for a new generation of female broadcasters.

In addition to her broadcasting career, George was a published author and a champion of the arts. She remained a steadfast advocate for female empowerment until her passing in 2020. In Phyllis George: Shattering the Ceiling, authors Lenny Shulman and Paul Volponi delve into George's remarkable journey, from her days as Miss America to her professional broadcasting career, to her roles as an arts advocate, author, philanthropist, and First Lady of Kentucky, where she played a pivotal role in her husband's election as Governor. George's life was characterized by her professionalism, resilience, and remarkable ability to leave an indelible impression on everyone she encountered.

Through their meticulous research and captivating storytelling, Shulman and Volponi provide a comprehensive account of George's life and legacy. They shed light on her challenges, triumphs, and the impact she had on the world around her. George's story is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the pursuit of one's dreams, regardless of societal expectations. Her journey serves as an inspiration to women and men alike, reminding us that breaking barriers and achieving greatness is possible with hard work, passion, and unwavering commitment.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780813195810