Shawna Lidsky, a longtime Vermont sports anchor who later built a successful food business, has died after battling cancer for more than five years. She passed away Friday morning, just days before her 51st birthday.
Lidsky became a familiar face to viewers across Vermont after joining WCAX in 1998. From the moment she arrived, she quickly established herself as a talented, energetic, and engaging sports journalist.
During her years at the station, Lidsky earned an Edward R. Murrow Award as well as Associated Press honors for her features and sportscasts. Her work demonstrated both a commitment to sports journalism and a natural ability to connect with viewers through compelling storytelling.
She also became part of the WCAX morning-show team alongside Gary Sadowsky and the late Judy Simpson. Together, the trio helped viewers begin their mornings with a combination of news, personality, and humor.
Although Lidsky took sports seriously, colleagues remembered her playful side as well. She was known for her competitive spirit, sense of humor, and willingness to support those around her. Her colleagues recalled that she always had their backs and brought enthusiasm to the workplace.
Lidsky’s zest for life extended beyond journalism. She enjoyed trying new things and embraced opportunities to challenge herself. Her competitive nature was on full display when she famously passed colleague Mike McGill during a race at Thunder Road.
In 2008, Lidsky embarked on a new chapter when she founded the Vermont Brownie Company. After eventually leaving WCAX, she devoted herself to the business, which grew into a highly successful venture.
Her entrepreneurial journey brought another memorable achievement in 2010, when Lidsky appeared on the Food Network and defeated celebrity chef Bobby Flay. The victory helped introduce her and her Vermont-based brownie business to a national audience.
In January 2021, Lidsky was diagnosed with cancer. For approximately five and a half years, she faced the illness with determination while continuing to live a life shaped by family, friendship, creativity, and ambition.
Her death Friday morning marks the end of a life that touched multiple communities. From Vermont television viewers and former colleagues to customers and supporters of the Vermont Brownie Company, Lidsky leaves behind a wide circle of people who will remember her accomplishments and personality.
She is survived by her husband, two sons, family members, friends, and many others whose lives she influenced.
Lidsky will be remembered not only for her award-winning work in sports broadcasting and her success as an entrepreneur, but also for her competitive spirit, humor, storytelling ability, courage, and zest for life.
As loved ones mourn her passing, the legacy she created through journalism, business, and the relationships she built will continue to endure.
