Deanie Wimmer

Meet Deanie!

Deanie Wimmer currently co-anchors KSL News. She is also an Emmy award-winning reporter who covers education and leads the station’s literacy initiative “Read Today.” She won a reginal Emmy award for her coverage of the Utah teacher shortage, and “Read Today” won the National Association of Broadcasters’ Service to America Award for contributions to literacy in Utah.

Deanie began her broadcasting career interning for news stations KUED, the Chronicle, KSL, and Georgetown. She participated in the Hinckley Institute, and later received a part-time job at KSL where she moved up the ranks as weekend anchor, political reporter, general assignment reporter, and producer.

Education has always been important to Deanie. She earned her Master’s degree and bachelor’s degree in Communication from the University of Utah, College of Humanities.

In her free time, she loves the outdoors and outdoor recreating in Utah’s mountains and red rock country. She is often trail running, mountain biking, hiking, Alpine skiing, and skate skiing. She’s an avid reader, studies Spanish, and enjoys spending time with her family.

Q: Why did you choose to study at the University of Utah and why Communication?

A: I grew up in Utah and knew early on that I wanted to be a news anchor. As a child, I would play 'TV,' even cutting out a TV screen from a cardboard box to use as a prop! By the time I was a junior in high school, I was set on studying broadcast journalism. My high school counselor suggested I reach out to someone I admired in the field to learn more about the career. I called Carole Mikita, a KSL anchorwoman and arts specialist. Carole became a mentor to me, and we remain close to this day.

Q: What was your favorite class at the U?

A: Broadcast was my favorite class because it was hands-on, and I learned skills that I still use today, and still remember professors like Bob Avery. In the beginning, I always felt like I needed a plan B just in case plan A (becoming an anchorwoman) didn’t work out. When I explained this to Bob, he said, “Why have a plan B? Just have a plan A”. His words stuck with me and I am still grateful for his support and guidance. I also enjoyed my literature survey courses, finding case studies and public surveys particularly fascinating.

 

Q: What advice would you give to current humanities students to make the most of their time on campus?

A: Diversify your skill set while in school to help prepare yourself for graduation and your future career. Learn to write content and edit articles. Become comfortable behind a camera and learn how to edit images. Try out video production and explore the world of podcast recording. Don't stop there – keep seeking out new media-related skills. The more diverse your abilities, the more valuable you'll be in the job market. And make sure to pursue what you love! Ask yourself: will this make me happy and keep me happy? Always prioritize the things you enjoy.

Q: What impact has your education from the College of Humanities had on your life?

A: My education from the College of Humanities laid the foundation for my career. During my master's program, the faculty's support and flexibility were invaluable, especially for those of us balancing full-time work and studies. Their encouragement to think outside the box led me to create a documentary that not only aired but also jumpstarted my professional career. This blend of academic guidance and real-world application truly set the stage for my success!

Q: What advice do you have for graduating students as they start to explore a career and life after college?

A: Make sure to participate in as many internships as you can! Internships provide valuable connections, offer hands-on experience, and help you find what you love to do. When you find the thing that excites you, go for it! By pursuing what you love, money will follow.

Q: What is the best professional advice you’ve received?

A: Foster your professional network. Nurture connections and avoid burning bridges. Your connections will offer valuable experiences and opportunities. Most importantly, pursue your passion! When you love what you do, going to work every day becomes a joy and will never feel like work.

Q: What is your favorite part about your current role as a News Anchor and Reporter for KSL News?

A: My favorite part about being a News Anchor for KSL is the opportunity to creatively uncover stories that help people. I love that every day is different, allowing me to report on important topics while experiencing something new. I’m particularly passionate about education and take pride in covering Utah’s education policies and developments.

Q: How do you currently make an impact through your work or other activities?

A: KSL’s mission statement is to uplift Utah’s families and communities, and I fully support this. We make an impact by educating and informing Utah’s communities. My personal goal is to show what good is happening in our society. So often people say the news only focuses on the bad, but I aim to always report on the good.