Broadcasting Alumna Lindsey Watson Named Best News Anchor in Ohio Associated Press Media Editors Competition

Meet Lindsey Watson '13

Job Title & Employer: Evening News Anchor, WKBN
Major/Program: Broadcast Reporting
College Activities: U-View, Society of Professional Journalists, TV studio assistant, Radio Television Digital News Association
Hometown: Beaver Falls, Pa.
High School: Beaver Falls Senior High School
Now Living In: Beaver County, Pa.

"Attending college in Downtown Pittsburgh is such an exhilarating experience. The entire city is your campus. The vibrant energy, rich cultural diversity and an abundance of opportunities create a dynamic learning environment that is both inspiring and unforgettable."

Lindsey Watson '13

Tell us about your journey at WKBN.

My journey at WKBN has involved a little bit of everything. I joined the team in April of 2016. Less than a year later I took over as evening co-anchor on our sister station 33 WYTV. Our stations operate as a duopoly, meaning we are both the CBS and ABC affiliate in the market, though each station is run as its own entity. As of March 2022, I’m thrilled to be back on WKBN anchoring First News at 5, 6, 10 and 11 p.m., alongside two incredible veteran journalists at our station.

While my primary title is evening news anchor, my role expands far beyond that. I’m still very much a reporter/multi-skilled journalist who writes, shoots and edits my own stories. Recently, I’ve been covering every aspect of the toxic Norfolk Southern train derailment in the Village of East Palestine — anchoring in the field and reporting on the devastation, as well as the ongoing cleanup/recovery efforts.

At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, I led our nightly coverage, breaking down incredibly detailed, critical information in a way that was easy to understand. My reporting has even gained national attention when I shed light on the topic of PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections), a rare and controversial disease that causes sudden outbursts, tantrums, tics and bouts of OCD in children overnight.

Tell us about your recent honor as Best Anchor and what that recognition means to you as a broadcaster.

2022 was a very fulfilling and rewarding year in my career. I was recently named Best News Anchor in the Ohio Associated Press Media Editors competition. It's truly an honor to be recognized by my peers for excellence in journalism. It validates the hard work and passion I've dedicated to my career and acknowledges the impact of my storytelling. This award has reinforced my belief in the power of journalism to effect positive change and has motivated me to continue pushing myself, exploring new storytelling techniques and striving for excellence.

What factors led you to pursue a degree in broadcasting at Point Park?

Attending the Summer Media Workshops at Point Park provided me with a comprehensive crash course in the broadcasting world and all that the University had to offer. The vibrant setting of Downtown Pittsburgh, in such a close proximity to three renowned television stations, greatly influenced my decision to choose Point Park. What truly sets the program apart is the faculty, many of whom are actively working professionals in the industry. Their expertise, valuable tools, advice and real-world experiences give students a competitive edge in this highly competitive job market.

What was it like going to school in Downtown Pittsburgh?

Attending college in Downtown Pittsburgh is such an exhilarating experience. The entire city is your campus. The vibrant energy, rich cultural diversity and an abundance of opportunities create a dynamic learning environment that is both inspiring and unforgettable.

Describe the School of Communication faculty.

The faculty at Point Park, particularly the part-time instructors and TV studio staff, are truly exceptional. Their real-world expertise and guidance provide invaluable knowledge necessary for success in the industry. The personalized attention and genuine support they offer in discussing your career aspirations is incredibly meaningful. They see you as the future of the business, and their utmost desire is to see you achieving your dreams.

Additionally, they equip students with essential journalism skills, on-camera presentation techniques and a solid understanding of multimedia storytelling. My time at Point Park undoubtedly provided me with hands-on experiences, industry connections, ethics, professionalism, and the tools to excel in this dynamic and constantly changing field.

Please list internship experiences you had as a student.

KDKA-TV: Pittsburgh Today Live and the promotions department
WPXI-TV: news assignment desk

What advice do you have for a prospective student?

Remember, education is not solely confined to the classroom. It's the combination of knowledge, experience and networking that can truly pave the way to success in your chosen field. So, stay curious, embrace opportunities and never stop learning and growing.

Broadcasting Alumna Lindsey Watson Named Best News Anchor in Ohio Associated Press Media Editors Competition Alumni Profile