Robyne Robinson

Inducted 2018

In a career spanning a variety of industries, Robyne Robinson has proven her versatility and successfully made her mark in politics, arts and broadcasting. She began her broadcasting career moving through markets all across the country including South Bend, Hampton-Norfolk, Dallas and Baltimore. Her in-depth and perceptive coverage of military affairs, local politics, and public affairs made her the perfect addition when she joined KMSP-TV in the Twin Cities.

In 1990, Robyne began her 20-year career at KMSP-TV where she later became the first African-American to anchor a nightly newscast. Additionally, Robyne produced and hosted an award-winning nightly arts segment recognized by the BBC and Variety. Her additional broadcasting honors include, Minneapolis NAACP Industry Award for Outstanding Contributions to Broadcasting, the Mass Media Award from the National Conference of Christians and Jews, as well as two Upper Midwest Emmys for Best Anchor.

After signing off of KMSP-TV in 2010, Robyne continued to flourish as a freelance writer, visual arts curator, jewelry designer, and even political candidate. Her unwavering belief in the people of Minnesota led Robyne to work hard in the community, becoming a Hubert H. Humphrey Public Policy Fellow at the University of Minnesota. Additionally, she has sat on numerous boards of cultural organizations and non-profit agencies, including A Better Change Foundation of Eden Prairie, the Lupus Foundation of Minnesota, MCAD, Independent Feature Project for Filmmakers, MN Film and TV Board, First Avenue Nightclub, The Soap Factory, The Walker Art Center and the Minnesota Museum of American Art.

Currently serving as the Director of Arts at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, Robyne Robinson has repeatedly proven her generosity, spirit and dedication to the community.