Honoring the Legacy of Renee Vaughn

For decades, Renee Vaughn was more than a beloved radio personality—she was the voice of the Triad. Through her work at 97.1 WQMG, she informed, inspired, and connected communities while using her platform to champion organizations and causes that made a lasting difference.

From the very beginning of I Am A Queen, Renee believed in our mission. As a trusted voice in local radio, she graciously gave our organization the opportunity to promote our events and share our vision with the community. Her willingness to use her platform helped introduce I Am A Queen to countless families throughout the Triad and played a meaningful role in the organization's early growth.

For more than 16 years, Renee remained a faithful supporter of I Am A Queen. Whether volunteering at the Annual Back-to-School Giveaway, serving during the Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway, supporting the Queens Period Project, or promoting our programs and events, she consistently showed up with a generous spirit and an unwavering commitment to empowering young people. Her encouragement, advocacy, and friendship helped I Am A Queen impact thousands of girls and families throughout our community.

A proud graduate of Carver High School in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Class of 1988, Renee earned her bachelor's degree from East Carolina University in 1992. Throughout her distinguished broadcasting career, she became one of the most respected and recognizable voices in the region, using her influence to celebrate community achievements, highlight local nonprofits, and inspire others to serve.

In recognition of her extraordinary dedication to community service, Greensboro Mayor Marikay Abuzuaitor proclaimed April 29 as "Renee Vaughn Day," honoring her lasting contributions to the Triad. Renee's passion for serving others left an indelible mark on the community, and she is deeply missed by her family, friends, colleagues, listeners, and the many organizations whose missions she faithfully supported.

Following Renee's passing during the weekend of April 4, 2026, the Triad lost a cherished broadcaster, mentor, and community advocate. Although her voice is no longer heard on the airwaves, her legacy continues through the lives she touched and the countless acts of kindness she inspired.

To celebrate her remarkable life and enduring impact, I Am A Queen proudly established the Renee Vaughn Legacy Scholarship.

Presented annually during the I Am Becoming HER Teen Empowerment Conference, the scholarship recognizes a young woman who exemplifies leadership, compassion, service, and a commitment to making a positive difference in her school and community.

The Renee Vaughn Legacy Scholarship is a lasting tribute to a woman who used her voice to uplift others and her heart to strengthen the community. Through this scholarship, her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of young women to lead with purpose, serve with compassion, and use their voices to create meaningful change.