The Thelma D. Jones Breast Cancer Fund is proud to recognize Andrea Roane for her legacy of journalism and advocacy. Over the years, Roane has served in various capacities in support of the Thelma D. Jones Breast Cancer Fund.
Honoring Andrea Roane: A Legacy of Journalism and Advocacy
Andrea Roane is widely recognized as one of Washington, D.C.’s most distinguished journalists, with a career spanning nearly four decades at WUSA9. Throughout her tenure, Roane became a trusted presence in the homes of thousands, known for her professionalism, warmth, and unwavering commitment to informing and empowering the community.
While she is best known for her award-winning journalism, Roane’s legacy extends far beyond the newsroom. She is a tireless advocate for public health, education, and the arts, as well as a respected leader in numerous civic and charitable organizations.
A Trailblazing Career in Journalism
Andrea Roane migrated to Washington, DC in 1979 and worked at public TV WETA. In 1981, she joined CBS-affiliate WUSA9 (formerly WDVM-TV) as Sunday evening and weekday morning anchor and quickly became a household name in the nation’s capital. Over the years, she anchored morning, afternoon, and late news programs. She also served as health reporter. Over the course of her remarkable career, she covered some of the most significant local and national stories, earning multiple Emmy Awards and other accolades for her excellence in reporting and anchoring.
Her on-air presence was marked by poise, compassion, and a steadfast dedication to journalistic integrity. Roane was often praised not only for her skill as a journalist but also for her ability to connect with viewers on a deeply personal level. She served as a mentor and role model to many aspiring journalists, breaking barriers for women and minorities in the media industry.
Buddy Check 9: A Lifesaving Mission
While Roane covered countless major news stories, it was her commitment to breast cancer awareness that left an indelible mark on the community. In the 1990s, she launched Buddy Check 9, a campaign urging women to take charge of their health by performing regular self-exams and scheduling mammograms. The initiative was simple yet powerful: on the 9th of every month, women were reminded to call a friend, a “buddy,” and encourage them to check their breasts and make their mammogram appointments.
By urging women to “call a buddy” on the 9th of each month, Roane transformed a simple reminder into a lifesaving community effort, empowering countless women to take charge of their health. Buddy Check 9 became one of the most recognized and impactful public health campaigns in the Washington, D.C. region, directly leading to early detection and treatment for many women.
Leadership, Community Service, and Honors
In addition to her journalism and advocacy work, Andrea Roane has held significant leadership roles in national and local organizations, further exemplifying her dedication to public service. She currently serves as the Sustaining Director of the Prevent Cancer Foundation, one of the nation’s leading nonprofit organizations focused on cancer prevention and early detection.
Her commitment to education is reflected in her role as Trustee Emerita of the Catholic University of America, where she has supported initiatives to strengthen academic programs and student opportunities. Roane has also been deeply involved in the arts and cultural life of the capital as a former board member of the National Museum of Women in the Arts and former Co-Chair of the Kennedy Center Community and Friends Board, helping to foster greater community engagement in the arts.
Recognized for her deep faith and humanitarian work, Roane has been invested as a Dame of Malta in the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, an ancient and respected Catholic lay religious order devoted to serving the sick and the poor.
Her service and accomplishments have been widely honored. She has an Honorary Doctorate from Marymount University, recognizing her contributions to journalism and public service. In 2006, Roane was named to the 2006 Class of the Washingtonians of the Year. She was inducted into the DC Hall of Fame, celebrating her outstanding impact on the city and its residents. Most recently, the establishment of the Georgetown Lombardi Ralph Lauren CenterAndrea Roane Award, formerly Lombardi Capital Breast Care Center, was created in her honor to recognize individuals in journalism and advocacy who embody her commitment to excellence and community impact.
A Legacy That Lives On
Andrea Roane retired from WUSA9 in 2018 after nearly 40 years in broadcast journalism, but her influence continues to resonate. Her contributions to journalism and health advocacy have been recognized with numerous awards, including induction into the National Capital Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the Silver Circle for her outstanding contributions to the industry.
Thelma D. Jones, Founder, Thriver, and Advocate, Thelma D. Jones Breast Cancer Fund and longtime civic activist, the first recipient of the Andrea Roane Award, is deeply honored to be part of preserving her legacy. This recognition is not just a reflection of Jones’ work but is a celebration of Roane’s impact, her commitment to truth, and her passion for making a difference. This award and continued recognition, encourages future generations of journalists and advocates to be inspired to follow in her footsteps—telling important stories and serving their communities with the same dedication that Andrea Roane exemplified throughout her career.
Her legacy is one of excellence, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of truth—values that will continue to guide us all.
Caitlin Leggett is a journalist, digital producer, author, and poet. She holds a BA in Mass Communications and a BS in Computer Information Systems from NC Wesleyan University, as well as an MA in Journalism from Full Sail University. Currently working as a freelance journalist, she previously held roles at NBC Washington, MSNBC, and NPR’s WUNC Radio.
