By Shawn Nowlin
Claudia Whitworth at 96 years old has spent the vast majority of her life making sure that Black people are heard and most importantly, accurately portrayed.
A powerful force in every sense of the word, the Roanoke Tribune owner has seen it all in her lifetime. Specific memories experienced from certain chapters in her life make up the many stories that still fuel her determination as publisher of the weekly family-owned newspaper.
Born in Fayetteville, West Virginia, to Rev. Fleming and Sedonia Alexander, Whitworth attended both the Christiansburg Industrial Institute and Bluefield State College.
Her journey with the Roanoke Tribune began in 1939 when her father founded the publication. After he was incapacitated in 1971 by an automobile accident, Whitworth took over the newspaper. Her former husband, Clifton Whitworth Jr., helped tremendously with the paper’s bookkeeping and public relations.
Initially at 5 Gilmer Avenue, the paper relocated to 312 Henry Street for some years before moving to its current location, 2318 Melrose Avenue. Today, the Roanoke Tribune remains one of the longest-running Black community newspapers in the country.
Even with getting firebombed in 1979 and bulldozed four years later during the city’s urban renewal, the paper has never missed a weekly edition.
In 1991, Whitworth was appointed to the Norfolk State University Board of Visitors. The following year, she was inducted into the Virginia Women’s Hall of Fame. Among the many other prestigious awards won over her illustrious career include being named Roanoke’s Citizen of the Year in 2004.
On Nov. 2, the Friendship Foundation honored Whitworth with its Vision & Values Award held at Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center.
Rev. Dr. William Lee, a celebrated minister and community leader, and Col. Thomas Dalzell a spirited and dedicated community servant, were two other recipients honored as well. Present for the well-attended event were community leaders and elected officials as well as several past recipients among the many seated in the Crystal Ballroom.
Speaking to all in attendance as he introduced his mother, Tribune Associate Editor Stan Hale said, “I am extremely grateful for the honor and recognition bestowed upon one who is a mother, grandmother and now a great-grandmother. She has guided my family for 96 years. When I look at my mother, still in the office every day, I can’t help but think about all of the memories and experiences. It’s just a blessing to still have her in our lives.”
After accepting her award, Whitworth gave a few remarks, “I am just speechless actually to be so honored by so many. It’s just home to me to be around such a lovely community that has helped me over the years. I have always been supported by so many of you. Thank you so much for being there for me and the Roanoke Tribune.”
Regarding a true family business, professionalism and integrity are two things Whitworth has emphasized to all who have worked for her over the years, from full-time staffers to volunteers.
With a legacy cemented years ago, even at her age, Whitworth still stands as a pillar of strength to her family and the community at large.
