Alumni Achievers – Michele Emrath, Brentwood High Class of 1998
Published December 5, 2014
Michele Emrath currently works as a TV news producer at WNCN in Raleigh, North Carolina. Emrath grew up in Williamson County and attended Lipscomb Elementary, Brentwood Middle and Brentwood High. She began her college career at the University of Missouri, but earned a degree in English Literature from Arizona State University.
How long have you been a TV news producer?
I have worked in TV News for roughly 12 years. Most of that has been as a producer, though I was a specials reporter in Flagstaff, Arizona for about a year. I have worked in Columbia, Missouri; Flagstaff, Arizona; Phoenix, Arizona; and now Raleigh.
What led you to want to pursue a career in TV news?
When I was in fifth grade at Lipscomb Elementary, the Vice Principal, Mr. Wayne Baldwin, ran a TV game show on the Williamson County channel. I earned the spot as host of “Spit It Out” and never looked back. I also credit my mom for putting us in theater young. At age 10, I won the Best Actress award for playing Helen Keller in ‘The Miracle Worker’ at Pull-Tight Theater in Franklin.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
It’s different and challenging every day. We make a difference. Right now, our station (WNCN) is pushing a #Brake4Buses campaign that has reached more than 30 million people. We have had several children die or be seriously injured from drivers passing stopped school buses. And now, the NC Attorney General is pushing for stronger stop arm camera laws. We are making a difference.
What did you enjoy most about your high school experience?
Some of the best experiences of high school for me were the diverse opportunities. I was a senior varsity soccer player when we won the state championship. The same year, I was arguing a proposed law at Model UN. That diverse experience made high school fun.
What WCS teacher made a difference in your life and how?
I must give props to Mrs. Brown, my fifth grade teacher at Lipscomb. She was tough, but I still follow many of the lessons she taught me and teach them to my own children! Another is my senior year AP English teacher, Ms. McCormick. My writing style is tighter and more clear because of her direction.
Do you have any advice for current WCS students?
To other WCS students I would say two things: take advantage of the opportunities around you… at school and in the community. School clubs, sports, Brentwood Youth Leadership, local charity volunteer options, etc. It won’t just pad your resume; it will enhance your life and expand your realm of experience from which to draw later in life. Secondly, stick with your goals. Reach high and don’t accept anything else.