The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) honors the legacy of NABJ Founder and former President Les Payne - an award-winning journalist who consistently broke barriers during his indelible career that spanned more than four decades.

Mr. Payne died on Monday night at the age of 76.

Mr. Payne was a trailblazer in journalism, having been a role model for many journalists who came after him. NABJ President Sarah Glover said Payne's work was both inspiring and encouraging.

"NABJ Founder and President Les Payne was a legendary journalist whose eloquent writing brought passion and truth-telling to an industry too often tone deaf to the issues impacting communities of color. Payne fought to change that with NABJ's other illustrious founders," said Glover.

"Founder Payne's bold words and writings showed us why it's important to be a present black journalist in the newsroom every day. He was a quiet, courageous and loving leader. His legacy lives on in us."

Mr. Payne's wife, Violet, shared how her late husband was a mentor to younger journalists, and that he maintained high hopes for them.

"I feel very humbled to have been his wife. I enjoy hearing about all the people that he inspired. He had such great hope for the younger generation to carry on," she said.

Today, we honor Mr. Payne by noting a few of his most reputable accomplishments.