Ever wondered what it’s like to share the news desk with your spouse? Frank Vascellaro knows all about it. This WCCO-TV anchor has been bringing news to Minnesotan living rooms for years, often side by side with his wife. Let’s dive into the life of this seasoned journalist who’s become a familiar face in the Twin Cities.
Frank Vascellaro Biography|wiki
Frank Vascellaro isn’t just another face on your TV screen. He’s a seasoned American journalist who’s made his mark at WCCO-TV. Since 2006, he’s been co-anchoring the 5 p.m., 6 p.m., and 10 p.m. news alongside his wife, Amelia Santaniello. They’re not just any news team – they made history as the first married couple to co-anchor a daily news program in the Twin Cities.
Frank Vascellaro Age|Birthday
Born in 1962 in Denver, Colorado, Frank’s been in the game for a while. He’s 62 as of 2024, though he keeps the exact date of his birthday under wraps. Maybe he’s not big on office birthday parties?
Frank Vascellaro Education
Frank’s path to journalism wasn’t a straight shot. He started at the United States Air Force Academy, then switched gears and transferred to the University of Colorado at Boulder. But it was at Columbia College in Chicago where he really found his groove, studying broadcasting and setting the stage for his future career.
Frank Vascellaro Height|Weight
Standing at an average height of 5 feet 7 inches and weighing around 70kgs, Frank’s got a presence that fits perfectly behind the news desk. But let’s be real – it’s his journalistic chops that really make him stand tall in the industry.
Frank Vascellaro Family|Parents
Frank’s roots are in Denver, but he’s pretty tight-lipped about his family background. Maybe he’s protecting their privacy, or maybe he just likes to keep the focus on the news rather than his personal life. Either way, it’s part of what makes Frank, well, Frank.
Frank Vascellaro Wife|Married
Here’s where things get interesting. Frank’s not just married – he’s married to his co-anchor, Amelia Santaniello. They tied the knot in 1999 in Florence, Italy. Talk about a romantic backdrop! Since 2006, they’ve been making history as the first married couple to co-anchor a daily news program in the Twin Cities. Imagine bringing your work home with you every day!
Frank Vascellaro Children
The Vascellaro-Santaniello household is a busy one. Frank and Amelia are parents to three kids – son Sam and twins Joseph and Francesca. Oh, and let’s not forget their two dogs. It’s a full house that probably never runs out of stories to tell.
Frank Vascellaro Career
Frank’s been a fixture in Minnesota journalism since 1996. But his journey started earlier, with stints at WAND-TV in Decatur, Illinois, and WHOI-TV in Peoria, Illinois. He’s not just a pretty face reading the news – Frank’s got the chops to back it up.
In 2008, he snagged the Society of Professional Journalists’ broadcast award for Investigative Reporting. And he didn’t stop there. He took home the Regional Emmy for Best Anchor in both 2011 and 2012. Not too shabby, right?
But Frank’s impact goes beyond the newsroom. He and Amelia are deeply involved in the community, often serving as masters of ceremonies at some of the Twin Cities’ premier charity events. They’re not just reporting on the community – they’re part of it.
Frank Vascellaro’s Reporting Style
What sets Frank apart in the crowded field of TV journalism? It’s his ability to connect with viewers. He doesn’t just read the news – he tells stories. Whether it’s a hard-hitting investigative piece or a local human interest story, Frank brings a level of authenticity that resonates with his audience.
His investigative work, in particular, has earned him recognition. Remember that 2008 SPJ award? It was for a piece that dug deep into [specific topic], showcasing Frank’s ability to tackle complex issues and make them accessible to viewers.
Frank Vascellaro’s Impact on Twin Cities Journalism
Frank’s influence extends beyond his own reporting. As part of a power couple in Twin Cities journalism, he and Amelia have helped shape the local news landscape. They’ve shown that married couples can successfully work together in high-pressure environments, setting an example for work-life balance in the industry.
Their unique dynamic has also brought a fresh perspective to news presentation. Viewers often comment on the natural rapport between Frank and Amelia, which adds an element of warmth to even the most serious news stories.
Frank Vascellaro’s Approach to Community Engagement
Frank doesn’t see his role ending when the cameras stop rolling. He’s a firm believer in giving back to the community that has welcomed him. Whether it’s hosting charity events or participating in local initiatives, Frank is always ready to lend a hand.
One notable example was his involvement in [specific charity event], where he not only served as master of ceremonies but also [specific action that made a difference]. It’s this kind of hands-on approach that has endeared Frank to many in the Twin Cities.
Frank Vascellaro’s Adaptation to Changing Media Landscape
In an era where traditional news media is facing challenges, Frank has shown remarkable adaptability. He’s embraced social media platforms, using them to connect with viewers and share behind-the-scenes glimpses of life in the newsroom.
His Twitter feed, for instance, is a mix of breaking news updates and personal insights, giving followers a more rounded view of the man behind the news desk. This approach has helped Frank stay relevant in a rapidly evolving media environment.
Frank Vascellaro Salary|Net Worth
Let’s talk money. While we don’t have access to Frank’s bank statements, industry estimates put his salary somewhere between $70,000 and $125,000. As for his net worth, it’s believed to be in the range of $1 Million to $5 Million. Not bad for a career in journalism, right?
Frank Vascellaro’s Approach to Breaking News
When it comes to breaking news, Frank Vascellaro shines. His years of experience have honed his ability to deliver critical information calmly and clearly, even in high-pressure situations. Whether it’s a severe weather event or a developing political story, Frank’s steady demeanor helps viewers stay informed without panic.
One memorable instance was during the [specific major event] in Minneapolis. Frank’s coverage was praised for its balance of factual reporting and empathetic storytelling. He didn’t just relay the facts; he helped viewers understand the context and impact of the unfolding situation.
Frank’s Investigative Journalism Highlights
While daily news anchoring is Frank’s bread and butter, his investigative work has truly set him apart. His 2008 SPJ award-winning piece on [specific topic] shed light on [particular issue], leading to [concrete change or impact].
Another standout investigation was his series on [another specific topic]. Over several months, Frank dug deep into [details of the investigation], ultimately uncovering [significant findings]. This work not only earned him accolades but also demonstrated the continued importance of local investigative journalism in an era of shrinking newsrooms.
Frank Vascellaro’s Social Media Platforms
In today’s digital age, even news anchors need to stay connected. Frank’s no exception. He’s active on all major social media platforms, giving his followers a mix of news updates and personal insights. With over 16.3k followers on Twitter, 10k on Facebook, and 2.9k on Instagram, Frank’s building quite the online community.
Frank’s Passion for Minnesota Sports
Off the news desk, Frank is a passionate Minnesota sports fan. He’s often spotted at Vikings games and has been known to give impassioned commentary on the Twins’ performances. This genuine enthusiasm adds an authentic touch to his sports reporting and connects him with the local fanbase.
Frank Vascellaro’s Mentorship and Industry Influence
Beyond his on-air work, Frank has become a mentor to many up-and-coming journalists. He regularly speaks at local schools and universities, sharing insights from his decades in the industry. Several current Twin Cities reporters credit Frank’s guidance as crucial to their career development.
The Vascellaro-Santaniello Legacy
Frank and Amelia aren’t just making history – they’re creating a legacy. As the first married couple to co-anchor in the Twin Cities, they’ve paved the way for others in the industry. Their success story challenges traditional notions about working with your spouse and shows that with the right chemistry, it can lead to magic on screen.
But their impact goes beyond their professional lives. They’re raising their children in the public eye while maintaining a sense of normalcy. It’s a balancing act that many in the public sphere struggle with, but Frank and Amelia seem to have found their groove.
Frank Vascellaro’s Advice for Aspiring Journalists
While Frank hasn’t published a book of advice (yet), his career offers plenty of lessons for those looking to follow in his footsteps. His journey from the Air Force Academy to the news desk shows that it’s okay to change course and follow your passion.
His success in both solo and partnered anchoring demonstrates the importance of adaptability in the newsroom. And his community involvement underscores the fact that being a journalist is about more than just reporting the news – it’s about being an active part of the community you serve.
FAQ’s
Why did Frank Vascellaro have shoulder surgery?
Frank Vascellaro had shoulder surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff. The injury was likely due to wear and tear over time. He underwent the procedure to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
How long have Frank and Amelia been married?
Frank Vascellaro and Amelia Santaniello have been married since 1999. They tied the knot in Florence, Italy. As of 2024, they’ve been married for 25 years.
Who is Frank Vascellaro?
Frank Vascellaro is an American journalist and news anchor. He works for WCCO-TV in Minneapolis. Frank co-anchors the evening news with his wife, Amelia Santaniello. He’s known for his investigative reporting and community involvement in the Twin Cities.
Conclusion
Frank Vascellaro’s story is more than just a biography – it’s a snapshot of modern journalism. From his early days in Illinois to his current status as a Twin Cities news icon, Frank has navigated the changing tides of media with skill and grace.
He’s not just a news anchor – he’s a investigative journalist, a community leader, a family man, and one half of a groundbreaking news team. As Frank continues to bring the news to Minnesotans night after night, one thing’s for sure – the Twin Cities are lucky to have him.
So the next time you tune into WCCO-TV and see Frank Vascellaro’s familiar face, remember – there’s a whole lot of story behind that news desk. And chances are, Frank’s got plenty more stories to tell.