WKYC Reporter Danielle Wiggins Inspires Students with Storytelling Advice

Wiggins shares her journey from college to the anchor desk, emphasizing the power of empathy and authenticity in journalism.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Danielle Wiggins, a reporter and co-anchor at WKYC Studios in Cleveland, recently spoke to students at the Cleveland Media Academy about her career path and the importance of storytelling. Wiggins discussed how her early experiences, including an internship at NPR, taught her the value of careful listening and connecting with the people behind the stories. She has become known for reporting that goes beyond just covering the headlines, using empathy and authenticity to highlight the challenges and triumphs of the local community.

Why it matters

Wiggins' approach to journalism serves as an inspiring model for aspiring reporters, emphasizing the power of storytelling to uplift and connect with audiences. Her willingness to share her own personal journey, including her battle with breast cancer, demonstrates the impact that vulnerable and humanizing coverage can have.

The details

Wiggins' path to the newsroom began at Kent State University, where she first learned the power of words and the responsibility that comes with sharing them. After an internship at NPR's "All Things Considered," she transitioned to television news, quickly developing a reputation for reporting that went beyond just covering the headlines. Whether reporting from a school, a neighborhood, or a community meeting, Wiggins approached each assignment with curiosity and empathy, highlighting the stories of students, parents, and educators that often went untold.

  • Wiggins spoke to students at the Cleveland Media Academy on January 31, 2026.
  • In 2022, Wiggins was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer and decided to share her journey publicly.

The players

Danielle Wiggins

A reporter and co-anchor at WKYC Studios in Cleveland, known for her empathetic and authentic storytelling approach.

Kent State University

The university where Wiggins first learned the power of words and the responsibility of journalism.

NPR's "All Things Considered"

The NPR program where Wiggins had a formative internship that taught her the value of careful listening.

WKYC Studios

The television news station where Wiggins has worked, earning a prominent role as co-anchor and lead reporter for the station's Education Station.

Cleveland Media Academy

The program where Wiggins spoke to students about her career and the importance of storytelling.

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What they’re saying

“Journalism wasn't about being the loudest voice in the room—it was about asking the right questions and letting others be heard.”

— Danielle Wiggins, Reporter and Co-Anchor, WKYC Studios

“Did the story matter to someone? Did it help?”

— Danielle Wiggins, Reporter and Co-Anchor, WKYC Studios

What’s next

Wiggins plans to continue her mission of uplifting stories and connecting with the local community through her reporting at WKYC Studios.

The takeaway

Danielle Wiggins' approach to journalism, emphasizing empathy, authenticity, and the power of storytelling to uplift and inspire, serves as a model for aspiring reporters looking to make a meaningful impact in their communities.