Major: 
Telecommunications (now Media Arts & Studies)
Year Graduated: 
1985
Hometown: 
Lexington, Kentucky
Current City: 
New York, New York
Current Employer: 
CBS News, Senior Producer, Broadcast Marketing
Top played song on your playlist?: 
I have too many favorites on my playlist to name just one.
Where has your CI degree taken you?: 

I feel truly blessed.  My degree from the University of Kentucky has taken me to the #1 Network in the country. UK afforded me the opportunity to build a solid foundation in my major. I learned all aspects of broadcast journalism, from the technical side of directing, lighting, audio and editing, to the producing side of developing, writing, booking, budgeting, etc.  I use the skills obtained at UK daily and have continued to build upon them throughout my career.

What is your favorite thing about your job?: 

I love the news. I grew up watching the “CBS Evening News with Walter Cronkite” and the original “CBS This Morning,” so it’s truly remarkable and humbling for me to now work at the Network I admired for so long. It’s also an honor to walk the same halls where Cronkite and other great journalists have walked.  My favorite part of my job is covering the news. Meeting people, ordinary people and superstars, who are impacting our world, and who are making a difference in our society.  I love sharing their stories with the audience at home. It’s always an adventure because no two days at work are alike. The thrill of being part of a national news team is as exciting today as it was when I walked through the doors in July of 1990.

What¹s the most valuable thing you learned in CI?: 

One of the most valuable things I learned, was to learn everything you can about your career choice and to make as many contacts as possible. Although I knew I wanted to be a producer, I also took courses in reporting, lighting, directing, studio operations, etc., while at UK. The skills I gained from taking those courses have actually helped me as a producer many times in studio and out in the field. I am equipped to help troubleshoot if something goes wrong, and I’ve found that crews and journalists you work with appreciate the fact that you’re interested in the entire process from start to finish. I also have contacts from the beginning of my career that I can call on to this day. Building relationships throughout college and beyond is super important.

What advice would you give to current CI students?: 

My advice would be to take a broad range of courses, learn all you can, develop strong writing skills and appreciate and value all of the people you meet along the way. Building a rolodex with key contacts is so valuable. And finally, always, always, always, be genuinely nice to everyone. I’ve had assistance and support from all types of people.  No person and no job is ever too small.