Introduction
Cheryl Annette Burton, born on December 25, 1962, has carved an indelible mark in the field of journalism. With a career spanning over three decades, she has become one of the most respected news anchors in the United States. Burton has been a mainstay at WLS-TV, an ABC-owned and operated television station in Chicago, Illinois, since 1992. She currently anchors the station's 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. newscasts alongside Ravi Baichwal and Rob Elgas, positions that underscore her standing in the industry.
Early Life and Education
Raised in Chicago, Cheryl Burton attended Lindblom Technical High School, where she was a cheerleader and an active student. She later graduated from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Biology. This diverse academic background has contributed to her analytical approach to news reporting.
Career Beginnings
Burton's broadcasting career began modestly but with significant impact. She started as a co-host on "Simply Elegant," a nationally syndicated weekly series. This early exposure to the media world paved the way for her eventual breakthrough. Before joining WLS-TV, she worked at KWCH-DT in Wichita, Kansas, and WMBD-TV in Peoria, Illinois, where she honed her skills as a reporter and anchor.
Joining WLS-TV
In 1992, Cheryl Burton joined WLS-TV, marking the beginning of a long and illustrious tenure. Her initial role as a weekend co-anchor and reporter quickly evolved, and she became a trusted face in Chicago's news landscape. Over the years, her coverage of significant events, including the 1995 Heat Wave and the 2008 Presidential Election, has earned her acclaim.
Awards and Recognitions
Burton's excellence has not gone unnoticed. She is a recipient of 13 Emmy Awards, a testament to her journalistic prowess. Notably, she won the Peter Lisagor Award for Exemplary Journalism in 2004 and the Thurgood Marshall Award for her community service efforts. These accolades highlight both her professional and personal contributions to society.
Financial Impact and Earnings
While exact figures of Cheryl Burton's earnings are closely guarded, industry estimates suggest that top news anchors at major networks can command salaries upwards of $500,000 per year. Burton's tenure and prominence at WLS-TV likely place her in this upper echelon, reflecting her value to the network and her significant financial success.
Community Engagement
Beyond the newsroom, Cheryl Burton is deeply involved in community service. She has been an advocate for education and empowerment, often speaking at schools and community centers. Her involvement with organizations like the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and YWCA underscores her commitment to giving back.
Exclusive Insights: Personal Life
In a rare interview, Burton revealed that her passion for journalism was partly inspired by her sister, Judith Burton, a professor of art education at Columbia University. This familial influence highlights the intellectual environment that shaped her career.
Pioneering Moments
In 2003, Burton made headlines when she became the first African American woman to co-anchor a weekday evening newscast at WLS-TV. This milestone was not just a personal achievement but a significant moment for diversity in media.
Challenges and Triumphs
Burton's career has not been without its challenges. In 2008, she was assaulted while covering a story, an incident that underscored the dangers journalists face. Despite this, she has continued to report fearlessly, earning the respect of her peers and viewers alike.
Financial Insights: Network Value
WLS-TV, as part of the ABC-owned television stations, is a significant revenue generator. In 2019, ABC's parent company, The Walt Disney Company, reported revenues exceeding $69 billion. Stations like WLS-TV contribute to this financial success through advertising revenues and syndication deals, with anchors like Burton playing a crucial role in attracting and retaining viewers.
Future Prospects
As Cheryl Burton continues her career, her influence extends beyond the newsroom. She is a mentor to young journalists and an advocate for ethical reporting. Her future endeavors are likely to include more community involvement and possibly leadership roles within the media industry.
Conclusion
Cheryl Burton's journey from a high school cheerleader to a revered news anchor is a testament to her dedication, skill, and resilience. Her impact on journalism and her community is profound, making her a beacon of excellence in the broadcasting world.