Chuck Stone reading one of his favorite student newspapers.

Celebrating Chuck Stone

Article by Artika Casini Photos courtesy of University Archives May 08, 2025

Pulitzer citation honors late UD professor

A special citation from the 2025 Pulitzer Prize board has been awarded to the late Chuck Stone “for his groundbreaking work as a journalist covering the Civil Rights Movement, his pioneering role as the first Black columnist at the Philadelphia Daily News — later syndicated to nearly 100 publications — and for co-founding the National Association of Black Journalists 50 years ago.”

A former Tuskegee Airman, newspaper editor, reporter and author, Chuck Stone, recipient of a 2025 special citation from the Pulitzer Prize Board, was also a beloved UD professor.

The honor affirms Stone’s enduring influence as a journalist who championed truth, justice and inclusion throughout his life, and it holds special significance for the University of Delaware, where Stone was a beloved colleague, mentor, professor and friend.

In 1984, while still actively writing, Stone joined UD as Distinguished Visiting Minority Professor of English. Over the next several years, he would become a central figure in campus life, teaching journalism with passion and clarity until 1991. That same year, he was named Walter Spearman Professor at the University of North Carolina.

At UD, Stone quickly earned a reputation as an extraordinary teacher. In 1989, he received the University’s Excellence in Teaching Award, and in 1991, he was named Distinguished Faculty Lecturer in Arts and Science. In 2000, the University awarded him the prestigious Medal of Distinction, citing his journalistic courage and campus leadership.

After Stoned died in 2014, at age 89, longtime friend Dennis Jackson recalled how Stone could light up a room — or campus walkway — with his distinctive three-piece suits and signature stride. “Being around Chuck was fun for all,” Jackson said, recounting the surreal but routine calls from politicians, civil rights leaders and police seeking Stone’s help or counsel.

As a columnist for the Philadelphia Daily News, Stone wielded his pen as a weapon against discrimination and inequality. His writing spoke truth to power and gave voice to the voiceless — often literally, as he famously mediated dozens of hostage negotiations, gaining the trust of suspects who believed Stone would treat them fairly when law enforcement might not.

Stone’s influence did not stop at the newsroom. In 1975, the former Tuskegee Airman helped found the National Association of Black Journalists, which has grown into the largest organization of journalists of color in the country, shaping the future of media through advocacy, mentorship and professional development.

For Blue Hen journalists, Stone’s memory and influence continue. As alumnus Joe Clancy blogged in tribute, “Nobody brought journalism to life the way Stone did.”

“Stone mesmerized young college knuckleheads like me with his lectures, which weren’t really lectures at all,” said a former student. “They were talks, discussions, examples, challenges: Be bold. Be fearless. Tell other people’s stories. Tell them well. Take risks. Accept challenging assignments. Don’t be a jerk.”