Today show star Sheinelle Jones received the Distinguished Alumnae Award at her alma mater, Northwestern University.
Sheinelle posted highlights from the event on Instagram and reflected on the special honor.
Sheinelle Jones is getting sentimental about a big achievement.
Back in October, the Today host visited her alma mater, Northwestern University, to receive the 2026 Distinguished Alumnae Award, celebrating her success in journalism. The ceremony took place on October 2, and Sheinelle shared a poignant message about the recognition on Instagram.
“30 years ago, I walked onto the campus of Northwestern University as an eager freshman, super excited … but if I’m honest, a little intimidated by all of the excellence around me,” she wrote. “Very quickly though, I found my lane. I LOVED college. I learned everything I possibly could to succeed in broadcast journalism…. I met my future husband [Uche Ojeh] … became the fourth generation in my family to join our sorority 💗💚💗, and to hear my oldest son say it, I truly discovered myself.”
“I say it all of the time. I certainly can’t make sense of all the things that have happened in my life, but there are moments where my heart is still full of so much gratitude for the good things,” she added. “Thank you @northwesternu & @medillschool for this honor … becoming a Wildcat (and a proud member of the Medill Mafia 😉) is one of the greatest decisions I’ve ever made. I couldn’t stop thinking about Grandmama & Uche—they would’ve been in the front row, but I know they’re proud—up in heaven. 💜.”
Fans got emotional reading the note.
“So well deserved!! Awesome!!! 🙌,” one person wrote in the comments. “So wonderful!! Congratulations on such an amazing achievement!! You’re so deserving!! ❤️❤️❤️👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽,” another agreed. “Congratulations!!! Absolutely Uche and your Grandma are cheering you on from above!!!” a different follower added.
Sheinelle began her career at news stations in Tulsa, Springfield, and Philadelphia before joining Weekend Today in 2014. She became a part of the cast for Today’s Third Hour in 2019, and she is currently co-host of Today With Jenna and Sheinelle.
“Sheinelle Jones exemplifies the highest ideals of Northwestern University through her extraordinary storytelling, unwavering journalistic integrity, and dedication to uplifting communities,” said Mary Scott Patronik, President of The Alumnae of Northwestern University, in an official statement. “From her formative undergraduate years in Evanston to the national stage on morning television, Sheinelle has used her voice to connect people with empathy, insight, and joy. We are so proud to celebrate her career, her impactful book, and her enduring leadership as our 2026 Distinguished Alumnae Award recipient.”
Congrats!
