Michael Wilbon, sports columnist for the Washington Post and co-host of the popular ESPN show, “Pardon the Interruption,” will speak at Northwestern University’s 152nd Commencement on June 18 at Ryan Field.
Wilbon will replace CNN correspondent Christiane Amanpour, who originally was scheduled to speak but will be out of the country on assignment at that time.
Wilbon, a member of Northwestern’s Board of Trustees, received a bachelor of science in journalism degree in 1980 from Northwestern’s Medill School of Journalism.
“We’re very pleased that Michael has agreed to be our commencement speaker on such short notice,” said Northwestern President Morton Schapiro.
“We’re fortunate to have a superb board of trustees. Assisting the University in a time of need is part of the trustees’ duty, and this was one of those times. We thank Michael in advance for being there when we need him.”
Wilbon joined the Post as a reporter in 1980 and covered college and professional sports, as well as major events, including the Olympics, Super Bowls and NCAA Final Fours. The Post made him a sports columnist in 1990.
He and former Post colleague Tony Kornheiser have co-hosted “Pardon the Interruption” since the show’s debut in 2001. Wilbon, who covered the NBA for many years, joined the ABC/ESPN coverage of professional basketball in 2006.
Wilbon began his sports writing career working as a student reporter and columnist at the Daily Northwestern. In 1997 he was inducted as an inaugural member into Medill’s Hall of Achievement. He has served as a member of Medill’s Board of Advisors.
In 2000 Sigma Delta Chi, the Society of Professional Journalists, honored Wilbon as the top sports columnist in America. His reporting and commentary have been honored by The Associated Press Sports Editors and the National Association of Black Journalists. In 2009 NABJ gave him the organization’s Lifetime Achievement Award.