Tribute to Linda Mason: CBS News Trailblazer and Mentor

Linda Mason, a distinguished journalist and trailblazer in the world of broadcasting, died on October 28 at her home in the Bronx. She was 84 years old. Her husband, Cary Aminoff, confirmed that dementia was the cause of her passing.

A Remarkable Career Journey

Mason made history as the first female producer of "CBS Evening News" with Walter Cronkite, a role that showcased her skill and determination in a male-dominated industry. She began her journey at CBS as a desk assistant in their radio division. Through hard work and dedication, she climbed the organizational ladder and covered various significant roles.

• She served as a senior producer for the iconic "CBS Evening News".
• Her talents led her to become the executive producer of "CBS News Sunday Morning".
• She also headed the documentary news series "CBS Reports".
• Eventually, she was promoted to vice president of public affairs, where she developed innovative programming and maintained high editorial standards.

Mentor to Many

Throughout her career, Mason was not only recognized for her professional achievements but also for her mentorship. Many women in journalism viewed her as a beacon of hope, proving that it was possible to rise to the top of a competitive field.

Marcy McGinnis, a former secretary at CBS News who later became a producer and senior vice president of news coverage, remembered Mason as an inspiration. "We often thought all women could aim for roles like secretaries or researchers, but Linda showed us the potential for women in leadership roles. She was my guiding star, and her kindness touched many of us who were just starting out," McGinnis shared.

Significant Contributions

In 2004, Mason took on a challenging role during a critical period for the network. As Vice President, she became CBS News’s liaison to an independent review panel that was established to investigate a controversial report aired by "60 Minutes Wednesday". The report questioned President George W. Bush's military service records during the Vietnam War and suggested that he may have received preferential treatment due to his family’s political connections.

This situation highlighted her ability to uphold journalistic integrity and work under pressure while ensuring that the network addressed serious allegations effectively.

Linda Mason's contributions to CBS News and her significant impact on women in journalism leave behind a lasting legacy. Her professional journey reflects not only her individual talents but also the changes in the media landscape, paving the way for future generations of female journalists.