CLEVELAND — WKYC Studios is excited to announce a new addition to our evening team, as well as a familiar face moving to a different time.
As WKYC continues to explore new ways to engage with the audiences of Northeast Ohio, we are excited to share that Sara Shookman will be joining Jim Donovan as co-anchor of "Front Row" at 7 p.m.
"Front Row" gives viewers a closer look at the news makers and taste makers that are shaping our Northeast Ohio community. Sara will continue her co-anchoring responsibilities with Russ Mitchell at 11 p.m. on Cleveland’s top-rated “What’s Next.”
"Like any long suffering Browns fan, Jimmy's voice has gotten in my head,” Sara said. “Now I'm thrilled to sit next to him and give you a Front Row seat to all that's important, interesting, impactful and happening in our community. We want to connect you with the news makers, our community critics and cheerleaders, and ask your questions."
Sara is one of 3News' go-to storytellers, covering local, national and international news. Sara is a thought leader in the community and uses the 3News platform to make sure the voices of powerful women and girls are being heard loud and clear.
“Sara has always had a gift for identifying the most compelling and newsworthy stories and people,” said Director of Content Adam Miller. “We’re excited for Sara to give a “Front Row” seat to viewers as she shines a light on Cleveland’s best and brightest.”
WKYC Studios is also happy to announce that journalist Laura Caso will be joining the 3News family as co-anchor of "What Matters Most" at 6 p.m.
Laura is an award-winning journalist who will be joining the team from WAVY-TV in Norfolk, where she currently anchors multiple evening shows.
“Laura’s inherent desire to sincerely connect with people and immerse herself in a community, seeking out the stories that matter most – is a strength uniquely suited for our mission here at 3News,” said WKYC Studios Director of Content Adam Miller. “We’re thrilled to welcome Laura to Northeast Ohio and know that viewers will quickly welcome her with open arms.”
Laura began her career by way of Elmira, New York where she anchored the morning news for WENY-TV. After exploring the Twin Tiers, she moved to Jacksonville, Florida where she served as weekend anchor and reporter for TEGNA on First Coast News. The next step in her journey took her to WAVY-TV in Hampton Roads, Virginia where she contributed to the launch of two new evening newscasts. Laura is beyond thrilled to return to TEGNA and focus on what the company does best, hard-hitting journalism.
"Sharing stories that matter, not simply scratching the surface of a topic but delving deeper, that is why I choose this career,” Caso said. ”I am so proud and excited to be joining the WKYC team, a station with an impeccable reputation that understands the significant impact local news can have on a community."
Laura is a proud alumna of University of Miami where she majored in Music and Broadcast journalism. A Massachusetts native, Laura’s love for music was woven throughout her childhood - singing at a Boston Red Sox game with her school choir remains a cherished memory. Laura began creating children’s stories at a young age as well, and this is undoubtedly where her passion for journalism and writing blossomed. In the fifth grade, Laura’s book entitled “Chicken Pox Explosion” was published and her first book signing remains one of her proudest moments. She continues reading to children along the east coast and whether it is hard news copy or a fairy tale, Laura thrives on telling a good story. Laura is an advocate of children's literacy and over the last several years, has also supported Alzheimer’s and AIDS awareness, suicide and drug addiction prevention and of course childhood cancer awareness.
When Laura is not in the studio or reporting on a story, you will find her exploring Cleveland and its delightful and diverse neighborhoods. She and her husband love to travel and spend time with their pup, Sadie. Her deep Italian roots have instilled in her the importance of family, friends and of course, food. Laura enjoys cooking and baking and hopes to one day master her mother’s homemade pistachio cake. She is thrilled to serve Northeast Ohio and looks forward to getting to know the amazing people who call it home.
3News’ Evening News Lineup:
5 p.m.: “What’s New” with Betsy Kling & Jay Crawford
6 p.m.: “What Matters Most” with Russ Mitchell & Laura Caso
7 p.m.: “Front Row” with Jim Donovan & Sara Shookman
11 p.m. “What’s Next” with Russ Mitchell & Sara Shookman
