The Illinois Tollway celebrates the pioneering career of Roz Varon
Roz Varon, Chicago’s first morning news TV traffic reporter, is bidding farewell after an impressive 35 years at ABC7. Notably, she holds the distinction of being Chicago’s first TV traffic reporter on the morning news and one of the earliest TV traffic reporters in the country.
Throughout her remarkable career, Roz’s expertise and connection with viewers have made her the go-to source for traffic and transportation updates. She’s adept at helping Chicagoans avoid jams and navigate their way through the city’s bustling streets. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Roz is also a stage 4 breast cancer survivor and a passionate advocate in the fight against breast cancer. Her pioneering efforts on the traffic beat have paved the way for others, both in Chicago and across the nation.
Her accolades include multiple Emmy Awards in traffic reporting, specialty programming, spot news, and features. She’s also been honored with several Peter Lisagor Awards and recognized by the Girl Scouts of the USA with their Thanks Badge. As a breast cancer survivor, Roz actively promotes cancer prevention and awareness and serves as an in-demand motivational speaker. Her love for animals extends to volunteering at the Anti-Cruelty Society.
Roz Varon’s retirement marks the end of an era, and her impact on Chicago’s news landscape will be remembered for years to come. The Illinois Tollway and Illinois Department of Transportation applaud Roz as she puts an exclamation point on an outstanding career, and we wish her all the best in her well-deserved retirement!