Atlanta NBC affiliate WXIA is moving morning anchor Shiba Russell to evenings to replace Brenda Woods, who is retiring in February.
Russell came to the TEGNA-owned station from WNBC in New York in July. She’ll co-anchor with Jeff Hullinger starting in 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.”
To replace Russell in the mornings, WXIA has hired Cheryl Preheim from TEGNA’s KUSA in Denver. Starting in January, she joins Vinnie Politan, Jaye Watson, Chesley McNeil and 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.”
This is from KUSA: