Jane Pauley was born on October 31, 1950, in Indianapolis, Indiana. She grew up in a loving and supportive family, where she developed a passion for storytelling and journalism at a young age. Pauley attended Warren Central High School in Indianapolis before going on to study at Indiana University.
While at Indiana University, Jane Pauley became a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority, where she made lifelong friendships and developed her leadership skills. It was during her time at university that she realized her calling to pursue a career in broadcast journalism.
After graduating from Indiana University, Jane Pauley began her career in journalism at WISH-TV in Indianapolis. She quickly made a name for herself as a talented and dedicated journalist, earning the attention of larger networks.
In 1976, Pauley joined NBC News, where she would go on to anchor several high-profile programs. She became a household name as the co-host of The Today Show alongside Tom Brokaw and Bryant Gumbel. Her warm and engaging personality endeared her to viewers, and she quickly became a trusted source of news and information.
Pauley's career continued to soar as she anchored programs such as Real Life with Jane Pauley, the NBC Nightly News, and Dateline NBC. She also hosted her own talk show, The Jane Pauley Show, which showcased her interviewing skills and journalistic prowess.
In 1980, Jane Pauley married Garry Trudeau, the creator of the popular comic strip Doonesbury. The couple welcomed twins, a son and a daughter, in 1983. Pauley's dedication to her family never wavered, even as her career reached new heights.
Despite her professional success, Pauley faced personal challenges, including struggles with bipolar disorder. Rather than hiding her struggles, she courageously spoke out about her experiences in order to raise awareness and reduce stigma surrounding mental health issues. In 2004, she published a memoir, Skywriting: A Life Out of the Blue, detailing her journey with bipolar disorder.
Throughout her career, Jane Pauley has been a trailblazer for women in journalism. She has inspired countless individuals with her professionalism, compassion, and dedication to the truth. Her influence extends far beyond the television screen, as she continues to advocate for mental health awareness and education.
Today, Jane Pauley remains an iconic figure in the world of broadcast journalism. Her legacy serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the importance of using one's platform for the greater good.