Marissa Alter
Stamford,CT
Summary
Versatile TV news reporter with extensive experience in crafting compelling stories and fostering relationships with diverse sources. Skilled in interviewing, research, and public speaking, with a focus on adaptability in fast-paced environments. Aiming to leverage storytelling expertise and media acumen to enhance brand visibility and reputation in public relations.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Reporter
News 12 Connecticut
Norwalk, CT
05.2015 - Current
- Produced multimedia content for diverse platforms, including most-viewed video ever on News 12's YouTube channel.
- Used social media to promote stories and build audience.
- Ranked in top 10 for social media engagement across all News 12 stations.
- Wrote accurate, engaging, and fact-checked stories.
- Reported live from critical news scenes, providing timely updates.
- Adapted swiftly to rapid news cycle changes, consistently meeting tight project deadlines.
- Led coverage of high-profile national case, resulting in increased traffic to News 12 Connecticut website.
- Crafted compelling narratives utilizing current events, trends, and audience feedback.
- Conducted interviews with key figures to gather valuable insights for reporting.
- Developed extensive network of contacts to facilitate efficient news gathering and produce exclusive stories.
- Supervised training programs for new reporting staff, ensuring future success.
- Executed pivotal editorial and management decisions regarding coverage.
Reporter
WLKY-TV
Louisville, KY
03.2011 - 04.2015
- Completed investigative reports by gathering facts from various sources.
- Established strong relationships with key sources, leading to breaking major stories.
- Attended press conferences and briefings to remain informed on significant news topics.
- Utilized social media platforms to collect information and engage audiences effectively.
- Delivered scripted, spontaneous, and prerecorded reports on relevant news events.
- Helmed out-of-state coverage of prominent story, including 50-minute special report, which produced 20% ratings increase.
- Stayed up-to-date with current events and trends to stay ahead of competition.
Reporter/Anchor
WREX-TV
Rockford, IL
08.2005 - 02.2011
- Delivered engaging live reports on local community issues to inform and educate audience.
- Simplified complex information to enhance audience understanding.
- Worked closely with digital team to optimize content for website, writing stories and posting video.
- Edited all video for multiple daily reports.
- Anchored two-hour morning show, including live interviews, scripted reports, and ad-libbed segments.
Education
Master of Science - Broadcast Journalism
Boston University
Boston, MABachelor of Arts - American Studies
Cornell University
Ithaca, NYSkills
- Content creation
- Deadline management
- Story development
- Social media management
- Strategic communication
- Crisis management
- Media relations
- Networking
- Research and analysis
- Live reporting
References
- Jim Mennino, News 12 Connecticut Photographer, (203) 856-0868
- Doug Richards, News 12 Long Island Assistant News Director (Formerly News 12 Connecticut Interim News Director), (917) 225-9727
- Andrea Stahlman, WLKY News Director, (502) 494-0099
Accomplishments
- Seven New York Emmy Awards, one National Edward R. Murrow Award, and three Regional Edward R. Murrow Awards for sports and news features
- Appointed to Connecticut Judicial-Media Committee
Timeline
Lead Reporter
News 12 Connecticut
05.2015 - Current
Reporter
WLKY-TV
03.2011 - 04.2015
Reporter/Anchor
WREX-TV
08.2005 - 02.2011
Master of Science - Broadcast Journalism
Boston University
Bachelor of Arts - American Studies
Cornell University