The Role of Local Television News in Building Community

‘No matter where I go, I always leave my heart in Texas.’ It’s an adage that resonates with many native Texans and after a decade working outside the Lone Star State one, I understand well. Born and raised in Houston, I’m a 4th generation Texan so, when the opportunity to move back and work at WFAA presented itself, I didn’t hesitate. I graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University (Axe ‘em Jacks) before starting my broadcast career in Odessa, Texas but I gained the bulk of my journalism experience in Kansas and Ohio. I've led coverage at both the Republican and Democratic national conventions in the 2016 presidential campaign, reported from the heart of tornado alley and had the privilege to share people’s remarkable stories. One story that made a lasting impact was about a woman who taught her dog ‘Gumby’, a deaf and blind Great Dane ‘touch signs’ to navigate his world. My real passion is waking up dark and early to share stories from the anchor desk, connect through social media and meet people at community events. These connections give me my passion for telling stories that matter and the desire to wake up at 1:30 every weekday morning! My husband Nick is also an early-riser; we met in the news business and have worked together since 2006. I have a Pomeranian named Bailey and I’m always looking for a new adventure; living in North Texas now, I have plenty of places to explore!