Shirley Washington is a name familiar to many in St. Louis. She’s an Emmy Award-winning journalist and anchor for FOX 2 St. Louis (KTVI).
If you’ve watched her on screen, you’ve probably wondered about her age and background. How did she become such a trusted voice in local news?
Shirley has spent decades in television journalism. She’s known for her thoughtful reporting and strong connection to the community.
While her exact age isn’t publicly available, we can piece together her story through her career and achievements.
Let’s look at what makes Shirley Washington such a respected figure in broadcast news.
Who Is Shirley Washington?
Shirley Washington is a seasoned broadcast journalist who has made her mark in St. Louis television news over many years.
Emmy Award-Winning Journalist
Shirley Washington co-anchors the weeknight news on FOX 2 St. Louis. She joined KTVI in April 2007 as an anchor and reporter.
Her genuine connection with viewers sets her apart. She tells stories that matter to real people. Her authentic approach has earned her multiple Emmy Awards and widespread respect.
Estimated Age and Background
Shirley hasn’t publicly shared her exact birth year. However, her extensive career spans more than 30 years in broadcasting.
Based on her work history, she likely started in journalism during the early 1980s. This makes her a seasoned veteran with decades of experience.
Early Life and Education
Shirley’s roots in St. Louis run deep, shaping her commitment to serving the community she calls home.
Childhood in St. Louis
Shirley Washington was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. She attended Roosevelt High School, where she showed early leadership qualities.
During high school, Shirley served as student council president. She was also a member of the Roughettes cheer group. These activities helped build her confidence and public speaking abilities.
Growing up in St. Louis gave Shirley a strong connection to the community. This connection would later become central to her work as a journalist.
Higher Education
After high school, Shirley headed to Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Broadcast Journalism.
Her college years provided the foundation for her future career. She learned reporting techniques, communication skills, and media ethics.
The training she received at SIU prepared her for the competitive world of television news. It gave her the tools she needed to succeed in broadcasting.
Journalism Career
Shirley’s career spans multiple cities and decades, building her reputation as a skilled and dedicated journalist.
Early Career Path
Shirley began her professional career at several major television stations across the country. She worked at WAGA-TV in Atlanta, WTVF-TV in Nashville, and KDFW-TV in Dallas.
During these early years, she earned a reputation as a “one-woman band.” This meant she handled everything herself. She reported stories, filmed footage, and edited her own segments.
This hands-on experience taught her every aspect of television news. It made her versatile and self-sufficient in the field.
FOX 2 St. Louis (KTVI) Career
In 2007, Shirley returned home to St. Louis when she joined KTVI. She came on board as both an anchor and reporter.
One of her proudest achievements was co-creating The Pulse of St. Louis. This public affairs show focused on social issues and community concerns that mattered to local residents.
Shirley brings depth and compassion to every story she covers. She reports on both local events and national news with equal care and attention.
Notable Coverage
Throughout her career, Shirley has reported on significant political figures. She covered U.S. Presidents Bill Clinton, Jimmy Carter, and Barack Obama.
She’s particularly recognized for her reporting on African-American history and education. Her stories highlight community strength and resilience during challenging times.
These coverage areas reflect her commitment to telling important stories that often go unnoticed.
Awards and Achievements
Shirley’s work has earned her recognition from both her peers and the communities she serves.
Emmy Award Recognition
Shirley Washington has won multiple Emmy Awards throughout her career. These prestigious honors recognize excellence in broadcast journalism.
Her awards reflect her balanced and authentic approach to reporting. She doesn’t sensationalize stories or chase drama. Instead, she focuses on facts and fairness.
Colleagues and viewers alike praise her professional integrity. Her Emmy wins validate years of hard work and dedication to quality journalism.
Industry Influence
Shirley has become a trusted figure in both local and national journalism circles. Her experience and reputation open doors and create opportunities.
Beyond her on-air work, Shirley mentors young journalists starting their careers. She shares her knowledge and helps the next generation grow.
She’s also a strong advocate for diversity in media. Shirley believes newsrooms should reflect the communities they serve. She works to create more opportunities for underrepresented voices in broadcasting.
Personal Life
Beyond the newsroom, Shirley leads a fulfilling life centered around family and community service.
Family and Lifestyle
Shirley is married and lives with her family in St. Louis, Missouri. She values her time at home and keeps her personal life relatively private.
In her free time, Shirley enjoys reading and writing. She also loves traveling to new places and experiencing different cultures.
Spending quality time with her family remains a top priority. She balances her demanding career with her commitments at home.
Community Involvement
Shirley stays actively involved in her community beyond her reporting duties. She participates in charity initiatives and local awareness campaigns.
Her community work often focuses on storytelling that makes a difference. She highlights organizations and individuals doing good work in St. Louis.
Many of her stories showcase hope and perseverance. She looks for the positive angles even when covering difficult topics. This approach has strengthened her bond with the community she serves.
Conclusion
Shirley Washington has dedicated decades to broadcast journalism, making a lasting impact at FOX 2 St. Louis. Her exact age may remain private, but her experience speaks volumes about her commitment to the field.
What truly matters isn’t the number of years she’s lived. It’s what she’s accomplished during her time in journalism. From Emmy Awards to meaningful community stories, Shirley has built a legacy worth celebrating.
Today, she continues reporting while mentoring the next generation. Young journalists look up to her as a role model. Her work inspires not just future reporters, but community leaders who want to make a difference.
Shirley Washington proves that great journalism never goes out of style.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shirley Washington’s age?
Shirley Washington has not publicly disclosed her exact age or birth year. Based on her career timeline starting in the early 1980s, she’s an experienced journalist with over 30 years in broadcasting.
When did Shirley Washington join FOX 2 St. Louis?
Shirley joined KTVI FOX 2 St. Louis in April 2007 as an anchor and reporter. She currently co-anchors the weeknight news editions for the station.
What awards has Shirley Washington won?
Shirley has received multiple Emmy Awards throughout her journalism career. These honors recognize her excellence in broadcast reporting and her authentic storytelling approach.
Where did Shirley Washington go to college?
Shirley graduated from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale with a Bachelor of Science degree in Broadcast Journalism. Her education there provided the foundation for her successful career in television news.
What is The Pulse of St. Louis?
The Pulse of St. Louis is a public affairs program that Shirley co-created and hosted. The show focuses on social issues and community concerns affecting St. Louis residents.
