With the recent announcement of veteran news anchor Brenda Wood’s upcoming retirement from WXIA/11Alive in February 2017, 11Alive is pleased to announce that Shiba Russell has been named evening co-anchor.
Shiba Russell joined 11Alive in July 2016 and is currently morning co-anchor on Atlanta Alive. Prior to moving to Atlanta, Russell served as co-anchor of NBC 4 New York’s Noon and 5:30p.m. weekday newscasts. She will join Jeff Hullinger as evening co-anchor beginning early 2017.
“From day one, Atlanta has welcomed me with open arms, and I have loved every minute here. I look forward to bringing our viewers the news they need before they go to sleep,” said Russell. “I would like to thank Brenda for her gracious offer to help with the transition. Her strong work ethic and authenticity is a lesson for all journalists. I cannot wait to connect with even more of our viewers.”
In her spare time, Russell is actively involved in non-profit organizations that provide educational opportunities for underserved students and is a mentor to young girls who aspire to become journalists.
Also in January, Cheryl Preheim will join the Atlanta Alive morning team. Preheim is currently the weekday morning anchor at TEGNA-owned KUSA/9NEWS in Denver, Colorado. She will co-anchor with Vinnie Politan, Jaye Watson, StormTracker Chesley McNeil and TrafficTracker Crash Clark.
“Brenda leaves a legacy of excellence and Shiba's background and journalistic integrity positions her well to carry the legacy forward,” said News Director Jennifer Rigby. “Cheryl's award winning storytelling combined with her passion for the community makes her a perfect fit for our growing morning newscast.”
Preheim spent more than 10 years anchoring and reporting for the 9NEWS evening shows at 5, 9, and 10:00 p.m. before assuming her current role as morning anchor. She has been honored with three National Edward R. Murrow awards, six Regional Edward R. Murrow awards, and nine Emmy awards. Cheryl has covered the Olympics three times at 9NEWS, traveling to London, Sochi and Rio de Janeiro.
“It's always such a privilege to connect with people, their stories and the community. My family is excited to be part of the Atlanta community and I'm so happy to be a part of the talented team of 11Alive,” said Preheim.
Outside of work, Cheryl enjoys spending time with her husband and their four young children. She and her family are very involved with their local Children’s Hospital, as well as other community organizations.
