In just five weeks since the announcement of the new station, Vice President of News Shawn Holder led the hiring of 50 staff members.
“I’m a journalist. I’m a family man. I love Atlanta. And I’m glad to be back and I am here to help,” he said. “The one thing you can’t teach is the most important thing for working here and that’s passion.”
This energy attracted talent like anchor Jobina Fortson-Evans, who returned to her hometown after a decade away.
“My parents will be the most loyal viewers in this market. That’s for sure,” Fortson-Evans said. “It’s something in your soul that just lights up when you’re back and that this isn’t for a visit. I’m staying. I live here now. I’m back, I’m home.”
Reporter Alexa Liacko, the station’s first hire, said the operation feels entrepreneurial while maintaining journalistic credibility.
The team also includes reporter Brian Unger, who left a 20-year television career in Los Angeles.
Unger added, “We don’t have time to dally. We’ve really got to hit the ground running because the community is depending on us.”
Assignment editors Ryan Dennis and Paradise Afshar coordinate the station’s community-focused mission. Staff members are currently sharing temporary quarters while construction continues.
