Mary Ann Ahern is an American Emmy Award-winning Anchor and Reporter working at NBC5 News – WMAQ in Chicago, Illinois as a Political Reporter.
As an anchor and reporter at NBC5 News, Ahern has become synonymous with incisive reporting, hard-hitting interviews, and a deep understanding of the Windy City’s complex political ecosystem. This article delves into the life, career, and impact of this Emmy Award-winning journalist who has shaped the narrative of Chicago politics for decades.
Mary Ann Ahern at a Glance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mary Ann Ahern |
| Profession | Anchor and Political Reporter |
| Employer | NBC5 News (WMAQ) |
| Location | Chicago, Illinois |
| Education | – Master’s in Education (Northeastern Illinois University) – Master’s in Journalism (Northwestern University) |
| Notable Coverage | – Chicago Mayoral Campaigns – Presidential Elections – Vatican Events |
| Awards | – Multiple Emmy Awards – Peter Lisagor Lifetime Achievement Award (2012) |
| Specialties | – Political Reporting – Religious Affairs Coverage |
| Years Active | Over 30 years in journalism |
| Social Media | Active on Twitter and Facebook |
| Personal | Married to Thomas Ahern, Chicago police spokesman |
Roots and Early Life
Mary Ann Ahern’s journey to becoming a household name in Chicago journalism began far from the bright lights of the newsroom. Born and raised in the heartland of America, Ahern’s early years were marked by a curiosity about the world around her and a passion for storytelling.
Education: The Foundation of Excellence
Ahern’s academic journey laid the groundwork for her future success:
- Northeastern Illinois University: Master’s in Education
- Northwestern University: Master’s in Journalism
This dual educational background in education and journalism uniquely positioned Ahern to not only report the news but to make it accessible and understandable to a wide audience.
Rising Through the Ranks: From WXIA-TV to NBC5 News
Early Career Milestones
Before becoming the face of political reporting in Chicago, Ahern cut her teeth at WXIA-TV in Atlanta, Georgia. This experience in a major metropolitan market honed her skills and prepared her for the big leagues of Chicago journalism.
The NBC5 News (WMAQ) Era
Joining NBC5 News (WMAQ) marked the beginning of Ahern’s ascent to the pinnacle of political reporting. Her tenure at the station has been characterized by:
- Comprehensive coverage of multiple political campaigns (2008, 2012, 2016)
- In-depth reporting on presidential inaugurations
- Exclusive interviews with key political figures
“Mary Ann Ahern doesn’t just report the news; she helps shape the political discourse of our city,” – David Doebler, President and General Manager of NBC 5 / WMAQ.
Mastering the Art of Political Journalism
The Ahern Approach
What sets Mary Ann Ahern apart in the crowded field of political journalism?
- Tenacity: Known for asking tough questions and pursuing stories relentlessly
- Impartiality: Maintaining objectivity in a polarized political landscape
- Accessibility: Breaking down complex political issues for the average viewer
Notable Interviews and Coverage
Ahern’s career is studded with high-profile interviews and coverage, including:
- Mayor Richard Daley
- Mayor Rahm Emanuel
- Mayor Lori Lightfoot
Her ability to secure exclusive interviews with Chicago’s political elite has made her a go-to source for breaking political news.
Beyond Politics: The Religion Beat
While Ahern is primarily known for her political coverage, her expertise extends into the realm of religious reporting. Her coverage of religious events and figures has included:
- Cardinal Joseph Bernardin
- Cardinal Blase Cupich
- Cardinal Francis George
- Pope John Paul II
- Pope Benedict XVI
- Pope Francis
Notable Religious Coverage
- Reported on Pope John Paul II’s historic trip to Havana, Cuba
- Covered the priest sex abuse crisis during the Pope’s meeting on the issue
- Reported from Rome on Pope Benedict’s farewell and Pope Francis’s selection
- Covered the canonization of pontiffs
This unique blend of political and religious reporting has made Ahern an invaluable asset to NBC5 News, providing viewers with a comprehensive understanding of how faith and politics intersect in the public sphere.
Awards and Recognition
Ahern’s commitment to excellence in journalism has not gone unnoticed. Her accolades include:
- Multiple Emmy Awards
- Peter Lisagor Lifetime Achievement Award (2012)
These awards underscore Ahern’s significant contributions to journalism and her impact on the Chicago media landscape.
The Personal Side of Mary Ann Ahern
Family Life
While Ahern’s professional life is well-documented, she maintains a balance with her personal life:
- Married to Thomas Ahern, a Chicago police spokesman
- Mother and active family member
Community Involvement
Ahern’s connection to Chicago extends beyond her reporting:
- Participates in local charity events
- Speaks at journalism schools, inspiring the next generation of reporters
Financial Insights: Salary and Net Worth
As a veteran journalist with decades of experience, Ahern’s financial status reflects her standing in the industry:
| Category | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Salary | $80,000 – $120,000 annually |
| Net Worth | $1 Million – $5 Million |
Property Investment
In 2019, Ahern made headlines of a different sort when she sold her Skokie home:
- Sold for: $575,000
- Originally purchased: $325,000 (1993)
This savvy real estate move demonstrates Ahern’s financial acumen extends beyond the newsroom.
The Evolving Landscape of Political Reporting
Adapting to Digital Media
In an era of rapid technological change, Ahern has adeptly navigated the shift to digital platforms:
- Regular contributor to NBCChicago.com
- Active presence on social media, engaging with viewers and breaking news in real-time
Mentoring the Next Generation
Ahern’s influence extends to shaping the future of journalism:
- Serves as a panelist on discussions about political and religious media issues
- Mentors young journalists at NBC5 News
Mary Ann Ahern’s Impact on Chicago Journalism
A Legacy of Truth-Telling
Ahern’s career serves as a testament to the power of dedicated local journalism. Her impact can be measured in:
- The stories she’s broken
- The politicians she’s held accountable
- The complex issues she’s made accessible to viewers
The Future of Political Reporting in Chicago
As Chicago’s political landscape continues to evolve, Ahern remains at the forefront, poised to cover the next chapter in the city’s rich political history.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mary Ann Ahern
How long has Mary Ann Ahern been with NBC5 News?
Mary Ann Ahern has been a fixture at NBC5 News (WMAQ) for over three decades. She joined the station in the late 1980s and has been a key member of their political reporting team ever since.
What are some of Mary Ann Ahern’s most notable interviews?
Throughout her career, Ahern has interviewed numerous high-profile figures, including:
- Mayor Richard Daley
- Mayor Rahm Emanuel
- Mayor Lori Lightfoot
- Cardinal Francis George
- Christopher Reeve, the actor and disability activist
Her ability to secure exclusive interviews with Chicago’s political elite has cemented her status as a top-tier journalist.
Has Mary Ann Ahern covered any national events?
Ahern doesn’t limit her reporting to Chicago. She has covered multiple presidential campaigns (2008, 2012, 2016) and presidential inaugurations in Washington, D.C. She has also reported from various locations across the country, including Boston, Texas, and New York, during election nights.
What is Mary Ann Ahern’s educational background?
Ahern holds two master’s degrees:
- A Master’s in Education from Northeastern Illinois University
- A Master’s in Journalism from Northwestern University
This unique combination has contributed to her ability to break down complex political issues for viewers.
Has Mary Ann Ahern received any major awards?
Yes, Ahern is an Emmy Award-winning journalist. One of her most significant recognitions came in 2012 when she received the Peter Lisagor Lifetime Achievement Award, a prestigious honor in Chicago journalism.
Does Mary Ann Ahern cover topics other than politics?
While politics is her primary focus, Ahern also covers religious affairs. She has reported on significant events involving Pope John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI, and Pope Francis. She has also covered stories about Mother Teresa and various Cardinals.
Where can I find Mary Ann Ahern’s reports?
You can catch Ahern’s reports on NBC5 News (WMAQ) broadcasts. Additionally, she contributes articles and analysis to NBCChicago.com, where her work is regularly featured. She’s also active on social media platforms, providing updates and insights on current events.
Is Mary Ann Ahern involved in any community activities?
Yes, Ahern is known for her community involvement. She participates in local charity events and often speaks at journalism schools, sharing her experiences and inspiring the next generation of reporters.
Conclusion: The Enduring Voice of Chicago Politics
Mary Ann Ahern’s journey from aspiring journalist to Chicago media icon is a story of perseverance, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the truth. As she continues to bring Chicago’s political stories to life, her legacy as one of the city’s most trusted voices in journalism is secure.
From her coverage of local politics to her reporting on global religious events, Ahern has demonstrated time and again why she is an indispensable part of Chicago’s media landscape. Her ability to navigate the complex worlds of politics and religion while maintaining her journalistic integrity has set a high bar for future generations of reporters.
As Chicago faces new challenges and opportunities, one thing remains certain: Mary Ann Ahern will be there, microphone in hand, asking the tough questions and bringing the stories that matter most to the people of Chicago.
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