Key Takeaways
- Elizabeth Nissen was a pioneering broadcast journalist who never married but maintained close ties with her large extended family.
- She worked for major news organizations and co-founded NBC Learn, combining journalism with education.
- Her legacy lives on through her professional achievements and the many lives she touched as a mentor and family member.
Elizabeth A. Nissen, also known as Beth, Nis, or Becky, was a celebrated journalist and a trailblazer in the field of broadcast journalism.
With a career spanning decades, many admirers of her work have been curious about her personal life, particularly her marital status and whether she had a husband.
Elizabeth Nissen’s Marital Status
Despite her remarkable professional achievements, Elizabeth Nissen chose to keep much of her personal life private.
According to available records and her obituary, Nissen was never married.
She dedicated her life to her family and friends and has a passion for journalism, teaching, and mentoring.
While she didn’t have a husband or children of her own, Nissen was deeply loved by her family.
She is survived by five of her six siblings—Mary Nissen Whaley and her husband Jay, Anna Nissen Barrett and her husband Tim, James Nissen, Eva Nissen Lewin, and Steve Nissen—as well as nine nieces and nephews who cherished her as a beloved aunt.
A Life Of Dedication And Impact
Elizabeth Nissen’s life was one of immense purpose. She built an illustrious career in journalism, working with esteemed outlets such as ABC News, CNN, The Wall Street Journal, and Newsweek.
She was a co-founder and Senior Producer of NBC Learn, an educational initiative to foster critical thinking and better teaching techniques.
Veteran news correspondent Elizabeth Nissen has died at age 71, her family says.
— AZ Intel (@AZ_Intel_) January 19, 2025
The correspondent had a storied career in broadcast journalism, including her coverage on ABC's "World News Tonight" the evening Princess Diana died in 1997. pic.twitter.com/xiClitUh8d
Nissen was known for her intellect, compassion, and wit.
A lifelong learner and teacher, she prioritized her role as a professional mentor and within her family.
She also maintained close ties with her community, actively participating in her local Rotary Club and church groups.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Though Elizabeth Nissen didn’t have a husband or children, her impact was felt far and wide.
- Her family, colleagues, and friends remember her for her dedication to journalism, education and her ability to nurture meaningful relationships.
- She was an avid Wolverine and Lions fan.
