In honor of Black History Month, the East Tennessee Society of Professional Journalists is hosting a special Zoom event featuring Calvin Sneed. This presentation will highlight Sneed’s remarkable 48-year career as the first African American journalist to anchor major newscasts in East Tennessee. WATE-TV’s Tearsa Smith will conduct an in-depth interview with Sneed, covering his groundbreaking journey and contributions to journalism. The event will be open to the public on February 25 at noon Eastern time via Zoom.
Pioneering Path in Television News
Calvin Sneed's career began in the early 1970s when he started working in various TV markets across East Tennessee. His rise to prominence was marked by significant milestones, including becoming the first Black journalist to anchor the main evening news broadcasts in Knoxville. Sneed’s tenure at WATE-TV Channel 6 was particularly memorable, where he worked alongside legendary broadcasters like Margie Ison, Sam Brown, and Mike Thurman. These experiences shaped his career and left a lasting impact on the local community.
Sneed's journey through the television industry began in Kingsport, Tennessee, where he started his broadcasting career at the age of 15. After high school, he continued to work in production and reporting while attending the University of Tennessee. By the late 1970s, Sneed had become a well-known figure in Knoxville, co-anchoring the evening news and contributing significantly to the station’s success. His dedication and talent earned him respect and admiration from both colleagues and viewers alike. Sneed recalls his years at WATE-TV fondly, describing them as some of the most enjoyable and fulfilling of his career. The supportive environment and strong community ties made his time there especially rewarding.
Beyond Broadcasting: Advocacy and Passion for History
After retiring from full-time broadcasting in 2017, Calvin Sneed has remained active in various fields. He now freelances as a news anchor for WRCB-TV Local 3 News in Chattanooga and continues to advocate for consumer rights. One of his notable achievements includes uncovering a loophole in Tennessee law that allowed police to extort money from drivers, leading to a change in state legislation. Sneed’s investigative work has not only protected consumers but also highlighted the importance of accountability in law enforcement.
Outside of journalism, Sneed has developed a unique passion for documenting historic bridges across the eastern United States. As an avid "bridge hunter," he travels extensively to photograph and preserve records of important steel truss and concrete arch bridges before they are demolished. Sneed has authored three coffee table books on this subject and frequently speaks to historical organizations about the significance of these structures. His commitment to preserving history extends beyond journalism, showcasing his versatility and deep-rooted interest in cultural heritage. Despite changes in media formats, Sneed remains true to his core values, maintaining his distinctive personality whether on air or off. His belief in the enduring value of personal connection in journalism continues to inspire those around him.