Sasha-Ann Simons

She began her career as a journalist in television news 15 years ago and made the leap to public radio in 2015 at WXXI News, the NPR member station in Rochester, N.Y. While there, Sasha-Ann earned numerous awards. She was also a contributing reporter for PBS NewsHour.
Sasha-Ann joins us from Washington’s WAMU where she was a program host, regularly behind the mic on 1A, WAMU’s Morning Edition and All Things Considered, and the station’s local midday talk show, The Kojo Nnamdi Show. She was also a national reporter, focused on issues of race, identity and economic mobility. Sasha-Ann often brought that lens to the conversation when she served as an emcee or moderator at various events and panel discussions in the nation’s capital. In 2019, she earned a regional Edward R. Murrow award for her work, and in 2020, she won both a Dateline award from the Society of Professional Journalists and a Radio Feature award from the National Association of Black Journalists.
Sasha-Ann is a native of Kingston, Jamaica. She grew up in Toronto, where she studied journalism at Ryerson University. She obtained a master’s degree in television and film production from American University. When Sasha-Ann’s not on the air, she enjoys spending time with her family and exploring the many amazing restaurants across the city.
Stories by Sasha-Ann Simons
MCA show highlights Puerto Rican diaspora’s impact on Chicago
Puerto Rican Chicagoans shaped the city in the mid-to-late 20th century through art and activism — and continue to do so.
More Americans questioning whether a college education is worth the high price tag
College enrollment is down in the U.S. as the cost of higher education rises. We explore what’s driving the trend.
Collective trauma in the wake of the Jacksonville shooting
A white nationalist killed three Black people at a Dollar General in Jacksonville, Florida on Aug. 26.
Comedian Jay Pharoah: From impressions on ‘SNL’ to a new stand-up special shot in Chicago
Comedian Jay Pharoah is best known for his uncanny impressions — from former president Barack Obama to Jay-Z — but he says his comedy goes far beyond the impersonations.
Take a dive into the deep ocean with author Susan Casey
A new book, ‘The Underworld,’ uncovers the mysterious world of sea creatures and objects beneath the waves.
How to help women, girls prevent injuries and become top-performing athletes
The number of women playing sports at the collegiate level has increased 600% since the early 1970s.
COPA Chief says claims of CPD sexual misconduct are ‘unsubstantiated’ so far
Chief of the Civilian Office of Police Accountability says no alleged victims have come forward or been identified.
Judy Greer on her ‘sixth sense,’ perimenopause and her Steppenwolf debut
The actor stars in a new play that takes an honest look at the evolution of marriage.
New podcast series uncovers the wild story behind mifepristone coming to the U.S.
Coming out in July, “Cover Up: The Pill Plot” documents the epic struggle to bring the abortion pill to America.
Chicago rising stars and talented transplants sweep Vocalo Radio’s Top 5 for June
Vocalo host Bekoe shares the top five tracks he’s spinning on 91.1FM in June.