At a time when women sports reporters were practically unhead of, Susan Shemanske was a pioneer in the field.
After graduating from UW-Parkside in 1977, Shemanske joined The Journal Times in Racine as a sports writer and copy editor. She eventually moved up to assistant sports editor and, in 1990, was named to lead the department.
Among the first women in the state to hold the title of sports editor, Shemanske excelled in the role. She guided The Journal Times sports staff for more than 27 years, producing a sports section that consistently ranked among the state’s best.
Under her leadership, The Journal Times won numerous statewide newspaper awards, including first place honors for “Best Sports Pages” in 1998, 2004, 2006, 2015 and 2016.
Shemanske constantly impressed her colleagues — not only with her leadership skills but also with her thoroughly professional approach as a reporter. While covering the Milwaukee Brewers for many years, she always did her homework and earned the respect of players and coaches — not only from the home team but also visitors.
With an uncanny knack for connecting with people, Shemanske developed a close rapport with those she covered and those who worked for her. She was known as a tough leader and, simultaneously, a close friend by all who knew her.
