Cleveland Students Learn TV News Secrets from WKYC Pros

Cleveland Media Academy students tour Channel 3 studios and hear from anchors, reporters, producers, and news directors.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Students participating in the Cleveland Media Academy had the opportunity to visit the WKYC Channel 3 studios, tour the facilities, and hear from various TV news professionals about what it takes to succeed in the industry. The students learned about the roles and responsibilities of anchors, reporters, news directors, and producers, gaining valuable insights into the inner workings of a local TV news operation.

Why it matters

Providing students with hands-on experience and exposure to real-world media professionals is crucial for developing the next generation of journalists and broadcasters. This event allowed Cleveland-area students to get a behind-the-scenes look at a major TV news station, network with industry experts, and better understand the skills and dedication required to thrive in the competitive field of television news.

The details

The Cleveland Media Academy students toured the WKYC Channel 3 studios, reporting live from the set and learning about the various roles and responsibilities of TV news staff. They heard from Managing Editor Russ Mitchell and Anchor/Reporter Danielle Wiggins about what it takes to succeed on-air, as well as News Director Julie Flynn and Producer Mea Griffin about the work that happens behind the scenes to produce quality broadcast journalism.

  • The event took place on Saturday, January 31, 2026.

The players

Russ Mitchell

The managing editor at WKYC Channel 3.

Danielle Wiggins

An anchor and reporter at WKYC Channel 3.

Julie Flynn

The news director at WKYC Channel 3.

Mea Griffin

A producer at WKYC Channel 3.

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What they’re saying

“Students participating in the Cleveland Media Academy had a chance to visit WKYC Channel 3 Studios on Saturday, Jan. 31, touring the facilities and reporting from the studio.”

— Kate Becker, Cleveland Media Academy student (cleveland.com)

The takeaway

This event provided valuable real-world experience and insights for aspiring journalists and broadcasters in the Cleveland area, helping them understand the diverse skills and dedication required to succeed in the competitive field of television news.