Remembering a leading Wisconsin journalist

Jean Otto

The Madison Pro Chapter remembers former Milwaukee Journal editor Jean Otto, who passed away Thursday, Sept. 15, 2011.

In 1972, she became the first woman to serve as an editorial writer with The Milwaukee Journal. She was later named editor of the paper’s expanding Op-Ed page, coordinating the opinion content that ran opposite the editorial page.

She was also the first female president of the local Society for Professional Journalists, Sigma Delta Chi, named the outstanding professional chapter in the nation during her tenure. In 1979, she began serving as the first female president of the national society.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Friday at the Milwaukee Catholic Home, 2462 N. Prospect Ave.