Norah O'Donnell Quotes

Powerful Norah O'Donnell for Daily Growth

About Norah O'Donnell

Norah O'Donnell is an esteemed American journalist, currently serving as the anchor of CBS Evening News and co-host of CBS This Morning. Born on January 23, 1974, in Washington D.C., O'Donnell was raised by her parents, Lawrence Richard O'Donnell Sr. (a cable executive) and Helen Cohen (a nurse), who nurtured her passion for journalism from an early age. After graduating from Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School in 1992, O'Donnell went on to study at Georgetown University, where she majored in American Studies. Her college years were filled with journalistic pursuits, including working as a news reporter for the school radio station and writing for The Hoya, the student-run newspaper. In 1996, O'Donnell began her professional career at WFSB-TV, an ABC affiliate in Hartford, Connecticut. Her dedication and talent quickly propelled her to NBC News as a White House correspondent in 2003. Throughout her tenure at NBC, she covered significant events such as the Iraq War and the 2008 Presidential election. In 2011, O'Donnell moved to CNN where she served as Chief Washington Correspondent, before joining CBS News in 2014. As a member of the CBS team, she has conducted high-profile interviews with numerous political figures, including Presidents Obama and Trump, as well as leaders from around the world. O'Donnell is also an accomplished author, having published two books: "The Grace of Leadership" (2019), which explores the impact of leadership on society, and "A Hidden America: Children of the Mountains" (2005), a documentary book about the lives of children in rural Appalachia. Through her extensive journalistic career, Norah O'Donnell continues to influence public discourse, inspire young journalists, and provide insights into the most pressing issues of our time. Her dedication to truthful reporting makes her an enduring figure in American journalism.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"News is not about entertainment, it's about information."

This quote by Norah O'Donnell emphasizes that news should primarily serve to inform the public, rather than for mere entertainment purposes. The role of journalism is crucial in enlightening society about significant events, issues, and ideas, thereby enabling informed decision-making and fostering a more knowledgeable and engaged citizenry. While it may sometimes incorporate elements of drama or intrigue, news should always prioritize truthful, accurate, and timely information over entertainment value.


"We need to hold our leaders accountable for their actions."

This quote emphasizes the importance of ensuring that those in positions of power are held responsible for their decisions and actions. Accountability is a crucial aspect of any democratic system, as it ensures that leaders act ethically and with the best interests of the people they serve at heart. When leaders are accountable, they are less likely to abuse their power or make decisions that harm the public, leading to greater trust and stability in society. It's a call to action for citizens to actively engage in the political process and demand transparency, honesty, and good governance from their elected representatives.


"Journalism is a powerful force for change and can bring attention to issues that might otherwise go unnoticed."

The quote highlights the influence and power of journalism in effecting positive change within society. By reporting on important yet often overlooked issues, journalists have the ability to bring these matters into public discourse, raising awareness, sparking conversations, and potentially inciting action towards resolution.


"I think it's important for women to support each other, especially in male-dominated fields like journalism."

This quote highlights the importance of solidarity among women, particularly in industries that are traditionally dominated by men, such as journalism. It emphasizes the significance of mutual support, camaraderie, and cooperation among women to navigate challenges, foster growth, and create a more inclusive environment. This notion is crucial for empowering women to break barriers, reach their full potential, and inspire future generations.


"The role of the press is not just to entertain or inform, but to stand up for truth and justice."

This quote emphasizes that the primary function of media, represented here by "the press," transcends mere entertainment or information dissemination. It underscores the responsibility of journalists to serve as guardians of truth and justice in society. By holding power accountable, ensuring transparency, and promoting fairness, the press plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of democratic societies and upholding the principles of truth and justice.


Growing up, my parents were healthy eaters and starting to run and compete when I was 13, I knew the need to focus on what you need to eat. I remember going to grocery store myself and picking up fresh fruit and knowing early on the right foods to fuel my body.

- Norah O'Donnell

I Remember, Compete, Foods, Grocery Store

I grew up in San Antonio, Texas, and went to a big high school called Douglas McArthur where there was a lot of track and a lot of football. It was a bit like 'Friday Night Lights.' I used to spend a lot of time at the track.

- Norah O'Donnell

Texas, Big, Friday Night, San Antonio

One of the most common mistakes for an entry-level job interview is to take the position: 'What is this job going to do for me?' You should be saying 'Here's what I can do and here's what I want to do to help you.'

- Norah O'Donnell

Want, Here, Going, Interview

As a working mom, I struggle to find time to work out and go for runs. I usually run two to three times a week and work out with a trainer once a week. I try to go for a longer run on Sundays.

- Norah O'Donnell

Work, Week, Go, Runs

I started running track when I was 13 years old, as a freshman in high school. I ran the 400 meters, which is a very tough race and a full sprint.

- Norah O'Donnell

Race, Very, Which, Ran

I don't love the phrase 'balancing work and family.' It sets up this idea of scales of justice with work on one side and family on the other side.

- Norah O'Donnell

Love, Other, Side, Scales

Persistence is incredibly important. Persistence proves to the person you're trying to reach that you're passionate about something, that you really want something.

- Norah O'Donnell

Passionate, Reach, Want, Persistence

You face challenges in your personal life and in your professional life. I continue to be relentlessly optimistic and not focus on the negative.

- Norah O'Donnell

Focus, Challenges, Personal, Relentlessly

I really enjoy making sure the kids get a healthy dinner, a good bath and several books... I really like to try and end the day with some quality time with my kids. If not, I feel guilty.

- Norah O'Donnell

Enjoy, Some, Several, Bath

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