Amelia Santaniello is one of the most recognizable faces in Twin Cities news. As the Emmy Award-winning anchor at WCCO-TV, Amelia has garnered admiration for her professionalism, integrity, and her ability to connect with her audience. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore every facet of her life, from her early years in Miami to her illustrious career in broadcast journalism.
If you are looking to learn more about Amelia Santaniello’s biography, career, education, family, and personal life, this article will provide an in-depth look at the woman behind the news desk.
The Face of Twin Cities News: Introducing Amelia Santaniello
Amelia Santaniello has earned the title of the “face of Twin Cities news,” a fitting description for a journalist who has been at the helm of WCCO-TV’s evening broadcasts for over two decades. Known for her sharp reporting and compassionate storytelling, she has become a staple in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. Amelia’s warm and engaging presence has made her a favorite among local viewers, earning her multiple accolades including prestigious Emmy Awards and recognition in the Minnesota Broadcasting Hall of Fame.
Her career has been marked by significant milestones that have helped elevate her profile as one of the region’s top female journalists. Amelia has covered some of the most crucial events in Minnesota’s history, from the 35W bridge collapse to the Red River floods of 1997.
From Miami to Minneapolis: Amelia’s Journey
Born and raised in South Florida, Amelia Santaniello has a strong Cuban-American heritage that has shaped her worldview. Growing up in Miami, she developed an interest in broadcasting at an early age, inspired by the news anchors she saw on television. The vibrant multicultural environment of South Florida played a significant role in her passion for journalism.
In the late 1990s, Amelia made a life-changing decision to move from Miami to Minneapolis, a city known for its cold winters and close-knit community. Her decision to relocate was driven by her desire to further her career in broadcast journalism and to contribute to the Minnesota news scene.
Initial Career Steps
Amelia’s career began at KDLH-TV in Duluth, Minnesota, where she started as a reporter. From there, she moved to WTIC-TV in Hartford, Connecticut, where she honed her skills and gained invaluable experience. Her career leap came when she joined the WCCO-TV team, where she became an anchor and reporter, eventually earning her spot on the anchor desk.
Hitting the Books: Amelia’s Educational Path
Amelia Santaniello’s educational journey played a significant role in shaping her career as a top news anchor. She attended the University of Colorado at Boulder, where she earned a degree in broadcast journalism. Her time at the University of Colorado equipped her with the skills needed to excel in the competitive world of news reporting.
While at the university, Amelia participated in various internships and broadcast-related activities that helped her gain practical experience. She learned not only how to write and report the news but also how to be an effective communicator and storyteller—a skill that has been central to her success on WCCO-TV.
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Rising Through the Ranks: Amelia’s Career Milestones
Amelia Santaniello’s career in broadcast journalism has been marked by numerous achievements and milestones. After starting at KDLH-TV and working at WTIC-TV, Amelia made her biggest career move by joining WCCO-TV in the late 1990s. At WCCO, Amelia quickly earned the trust of viewers, becoming the anchor for the station’s evening news broadcasts.
Over the years, she has covered major events such as the 35W bridge collapse in 2007, the Red River floods of 1997, and the COVID-19 pandemic. These events, along with her exceptional reporting skills, helped solidify her place as one of the leading figures in Minnesota news.
Amelia’s ability to report on both local and national events with compassion and accuracy has made her a highly respected figure in the industry. Her career has also been marked by multiple awards, including the Edward R. Murrow Award and the Walter Cronkite Award.
Behind the Anchor Desk: Amelia’s Life at WCCO-TV
As a WCCO anchor, Amelia Santaniello has been a fixture of the station’s nightly news programming for many years. She anchors the evening newscasts, delivering the latest local and national news with poise and professionalism. Amelia’s ability to connect with the community is one of the key reasons she has become so beloved by Twin Cities residents.
Her relationship with co-anchor Frank Vascellaro is one of mutual respect and admiration. Together, they have become one of the most well-known and trusted duos in Minnesota broadcast journalism. Amelia and Frank’s on-air chemistry is evident, making them an endearing presence on the WCCO-TV anchor desk.
The Woman Behind the Camera: Amelia’s Personal Life
Amelia Santaniello’s personal life is just as compelling as her professional career. She is known for being a devoted wife and mother, which resonates deeply with her viewers. Amelia is married to Frank Vascellaro, her co-anchor at WCCO-TV. Together, they have three children: Sam, Joseph, and Francesca. Their family life is a reflection of their shared values and commitment to raising their children with love and care.
Despite her busy career, Amelia maintains a strong work-life balance, prioritizing time with her family. Her ability to juggle her professional and personal life with grace has made her an inspiration to many women in journalism.
Amelia’s Family: The Heart of Her World
Amelia’s family is the foundation of her life. She and Frank Vascellaro have been married for many years, and their relationship has been a cornerstone of Amelia’s personal and professional success. They are active in their community, often participating in charity events like the Taste of the NFL and working with organizations such as Second Harvest Heartland.
Her children, Sam, Joseph, and Francesca, have grown up surrounded by their parents’ dedication to journalism and public service. Amelia often shares glimpses of her family life on social media, showcasing her love for her husband and children.
Beyond the Newsroom: Amelia’s Passions and Interests
Outside of her career as a WCCO-TV anchor, Amelia Santaniello has several passions that keep her grounded. She is a passionate advocate for breast cancer awareness, having participated in various fundraising efforts for the cause. She is also involved in multiple charitable organizations, including Second Harvest Heartland, which helps fight hunger in Minnesota.
Amelia also enjoys cooking, traveling, and spending quality time with her family. Her hobbies reflect her balanced approach to life, as she enjoys both relaxation and community service.
Overcoming Challenges: Amelia’s Resilience
Throughout her career, Amelia Santaniello has faced many challenges, both professionally and personally. The demanding nature of her job has required immense dedication and resilience. Reporting on major stories, like the tragic 35W bridge collapse, required not only her investigative skills but also a deep sense of empathy for the victims and their families.
Amelia’s resilience also extends to her personal life, as she has faced and overcome the pressures of balancing a career in journalism with her responsibilities as a mother and wife. Her ability to thrive under pressure has made her a role model for many in the industry.
Amelia by the Numbers: Recognition and Achievements
Amelia Santaniello’s career is defined by numerous accolades and awards. She has won multiple Emmy Awards and prestigious recognitions, including the Edward R. Murrow Award for excellence in journalism and the Walter Cronkite Award for lifetime achievement. These awards serve as a testament to her dedication to broadcast journalism and her role in shaping the news landscape in Minnesota.
Amelia’s long career and lasting impact on Minnesota’s media scene have solidified her place as one of the state’s most respected news anchors.
Connecting with Viewers: Amelia’s Social Media Presence
In today’s digital age, Amelia Santaniello has built a strong social media presence, connecting with viewers on platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Her social media accounts offer a glimpse into her personal life, allowing fans to see her behind-the-scenes moments and her advocacy work.
Amelia’s social media presence also serves as a platform for her to engage with her audience, share her thoughts on news stories, and encourage community involvement in various causes.
The Legacy of Amelia Santaniello: Looking to the Future
Amelia Santaniello’s legacy in Minnesota broadcast journalism is undeniable. She has influenced the careers of many aspiring journalists and has set a high standard for professionalism in news reporting. While she continues to anchor the evening broadcasts at WCCO-TV, her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of journalists and media professionals.
Looking ahead, Amelia is poised to continue making a significant impact in the world of broadcast journalism, cementing her place in the history of Minnesota’s media landscape.
FAQs
How Old is Amelia Santaniello?
Amelia Santaniello was born on August 17, 1964, making her 60 years old as of 2024.
Who is Amelia Santaniello’s Husband?
Amelia Santaniello is married to Frank Vascellaro, her co-anchor at WCCO-TV.
What is Amelia Santaniello’s Net Worth?
Amelia’s net worth is estimated to be $1 million to $5 million, thanks to her successful career in broadcast journalism.
How Tall is Amelia Santaniello?
Amelia stands at 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) tall.
Conclusion
Amelia Santaniello’s remarkable journey from a young aspiring journalist in Miami to becoming an iconic anchor at WCCO-TV is a testament to her dedication, skill, and resilience. Her career has been shaped by significant achievements, from reporting on major news events to earning multiple awards that highlight her excellence in broadcast journalism. Beyond the newsroom, Amelia’s commitment to her family, her community, and charitable causes further defines her as a well-rounded and inspiring figure.
With her warm presence and unwavering professionalism, Amelia has become a beloved figure in Minnesota, earning the trust and admiration of viewers across the Twin Cities. Her story serves as an inspiration to many, proving that success is built on passion, perseverance, and a genuine desire to make a difference.
