Thom Greer shattered barriers as The Plain Dealer’s first Black editor, now his trailblazing career earns him a place in NC A&T’s Sports Writers Hall of Fame.
Exploring the path
Humble Beginnings
Thom Greer was born in Nashville, TN, and raised partly in New Jersey. He attended Dillard University in New Orleans, where he majored in history. He was also a proud member of the Omega Psi Phi fraternity.
Early Journalism Career
Greer began his career in 1964 at the Evening Times in Trenton, NJ. He dabbled in investigative reporting. Eventually, he transitioned into sports writing, covering major teams and events. Over the years, he worked at newspapers in Chicago, Philadelphia, and New York, and covered significant stories like the Philadelphia Eagles and many Muhammad Ali fights.
The Plain Dealer Era: Breaking Barriers
In 1983, Greer joined The Cleveland Plain Dealer as a sports editor, becoming the first Black sports editor at the paper. He rose through the ranks quickly, becoming managing editor in 1986, executive editor in 1989, editor in 1990, and vice president in 1992. During this time, he was one of only three Black newsroom leaders in the country, known for his blunt, direct style of journalism.
Journalism Legacy and Achievements
Greer served on the Pulitzer Prize jury and was inducted into the Region VI Hall of Fame of the National Association of Black Journalists. Now honored with an induction into NC A&T’s Sports Writers Hall of Fame.
Personal Life
Greer was married to Maxine Lynch, also a journalist at The Plain Dealer. Together, they had two daughters, Kasy and Janna, along with two stepchildren. In his free time, Greer enjoyed golfing. He retired in 2001. Passed away in 2011 at the age of 69 due to cancer.