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The Dedicated Team Behind WJLA: Profiles of On-Air Personalities

WJLA, the ABC-affiliated television station serving the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, boasts a talented and diverse team of journalists, anchors, reporters, meteorologists, and sports experts who deliver comprehensive news coverage to viewers across the region. Known as ABC7, the station prides itself on its commitment to accurate, timely reporting on local, national, and international stories, with a focus on community impact and investigative journalism. The "People" section of the WJLA website provides an in-depth look at the individuals who make up this dynamic newsroom, highlighting their professional backgrounds, personal passions, and contributions to the field. From seasoned anchors who have become household names to up-and-coming reporters tackling breaking news, the team reflects a blend of experience, expertise, and enthusiasm for storytelling. This summary explores the key members of the WJLA on-air staff, grouped by their primary roles, offering insights into what drives them and how they serve the community.

Starting with the anchors, Alison Starling stands out as a veteran presence on ABC7's evening newscasts. With over two decades in broadcast journalism, Starling co-anchors the 4 p.m., 5 p.m., and 6 p.m. broadcasts alongside her colleagues. Her career began in smaller markets before she joined WJLA in 2003, where she has covered major events including presidential inaugurations, the aftermath of 9/11, and local crises like the D.C. sniper attacks. Starling is not only known for her poised delivery but also for her advocacy work in women's health and education. She has received multiple Emmy Awards for her reporting and is deeply involved in community initiatives, such as supporting literacy programs in local schools. Her ability to connect with viewers on a personal level has made her a trusted figure in the DMV area.

Joining Starling is Michelle Marsh, who anchors the morning and noon newscasts. Marsh brings a fresh energy to the team, having previously worked in markets like Atlanta and Philadelphia. At WJLA, she has focused on in-depth features that highlight underrepresented voices in the community, from profiles of local entrepreneurs to stories on mental health awareness. Marsh's background includes a degree in broadcast journalism from the University of Georgia, and she often shares her experiences as a working mother, inspiring viewers with her balance of career and family life. Her reporting has earned her recognition from the Associated Press, and she is particularly passionate about covering education reform and social justice issues.

In the realm of investigative journalism, reporters like John Rogers exemplify WJLA's commitment to holding power accountable. As a senior investigative reporter, Rogers has led exposés on government corruption, environmental hazards, and consumer protection stories. His work on the station's "7 On Your Side" segment has helped resolve viewer complaints and uncover systemic issues, such as faulty public infrastructure in the D.C. area. With a background in print journalism before transitioning to television, Rogers has been honored with Edward R. Murrow Awards for his tenacious reporting. He often collaborates with the station's digital team to extend stories online, providing deeper dives into complex topics.

Another key reporter is Melanie Alnwick, who covers breaking news and general assignments. Alnwick's versatility allows her to pivot from live shots at crime scenes to human-interest pieces on community heroes. She joined WJLA after stints in other East Coast markets and has become known for her empathetic interviewing style, especially in stories involving first responders and veterans. Alnwick's passion for animal welfare often shines through in her off-air activities, where she volunteers with local shelters, and she has incorporated pet adoption segments into the station's programming.

The meteorology team at WJLA is led by experienced forecasters who keep viewers informed about the region's unpredictable weather. Chief Meteorologist Veronica Johnson brings a wealth of knowledge from her time at the National Weather Service and previous roles in broadcast meteorology. At WJLA, she delivers forecasts for the evening newscasts, emphasizing severe weather preparedness and climate change impacts. Johnson's scientific background includes a degree in atmospheric science, and she has been instrumental in the station's coverage of events like Hurricane Isabel and recent Nor'easters. She is a strong advocate for STEM education, particularly encouraging young women to pursue careers in science, and has received accolades from the American Meteorological Society for her accurate and accessible weather reporting.

Supporting Johnson is Steve Rudin, a meteorologist who handles morning and weekend forecasts. Rudin's approachable style makes complex weather patterns understandable for everyday viewers. He has been with WJLA for over a decade, covering everything from blizzards to heatwaves, and often incorporates viewer-submitted photos into his segments to foster community engagement. Rudin's expertise extends to environmental reporting, where he discusses topics like air quality and sustainable living. Outside the studio, he participates in local charity runs and educates school groups on meteorology.

On the sports front, Scott Abraham anchors the sports desk, bringing enthusiasm and deep knowledge to coverage of D.C.'s professional teams, including the Commanders, Nationals, Capitals, and Wizards. Abraham's career includes play-by-play announcing and sideline reporting, and at WJLA, he provides analysis on everything from NFL drafts to high school athletics. His segments often feature interviews with athletes and coaches, offering behind-the-scenes insights. Abraham is passionate about youth sports and mentors aspiring journalists through local programs.

Erin Como serves as both a traffic reporter and lifestyle correspondent, blending practical updates with entertaining features. In the mornings, she guides commuters through D.C.'s notorious traffic snarls, while her "Good Morning Washington" segments cover food, fashion, and local events. Como's bubbly personality and social media savvy have helped her build a strong following, and she often highlights small businesses in the area.

Other notable team members include traffic anchor Kidd O'Shea, who adds humor to rush-hour reports, and reporter Victoria Sanchez, who specializes in health and medical stories, drawing from her bilingual skills to reach diverse audiences. The team also features digital journalists like Sam Sweeney, who focuses on transportation and aviation news, often breaking stories on airport delays and infrastructure projects.

Beyond their on-air roles, many WJLA staff members are active in philanthropy. For instance, anchor Jonathan Elias, who co-anchors evenings, supports veterans' causes, while reporter Tom Roussey covers transportation and has advocated for safer roads. The station's commitment to diversity is evident in its lineup, with professionals from various backgrounds contributing to inclusive storytelling.

In summary, the people of WJLA form a cohesive unit dedicated to informing and engaging the Washington, D.C. community. Their collective experience spans hundreds of years in journalism, marked by awards, innovations, and a shared mission to deliver news that matters. Whether it's through hard-hitting investigations, reliable weather updates, or uplifting features, this team ensures that viewers stay connected and informed. As the media landscape evolves, WJLA's on-air personalities continue to adapt, leveraging digital platforms to expand their reach and deepen their impact on the audience they serve. This ensemble not only reports the news but also embodies the spirit of public service journalism in one of the nation's most politically charged cities. (Word count: 1,028)

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[ https://wjla.com/station/people ]