Letitia Perry

BIO

I was born and raised in Dayton, and I'm a proud product of the Public School system. I attended Central Michigan University, where I double-majored in Broadcast/Cinematic Arts and Journalism. While in my last year of college, I was asked to join the staff of the CMU Public Broadcasting Center serving Central, and Northern portions of Michigan; as well as parts of the Northern Lower Peninsula. While working as a radio producer and host of NPR's Morning Edition and All Things Considered, I was asked to host various programs on the television side of the same PBS center.

In 1992, I left Mount Pleasant, Michigan to accept a position at WCBE-FM in Columbus, Ohio. I served as a News Producer for 3 years at the public radio station, which is licensed to the Columbus Board of Education.

I returned to my hometown in 1996, accepting the position of News Director at Hawes-Saunders Broadcast Properties, Inc. in Dayton. After four years, I was appointed Director of Community & Public Affairs. In the spring of 2001, I became a General Assignment Reporter for WHIO-TV. In December 2006, I was proud to be named co-anchor of News Center 7 at 11 p.m.

I have served in various capacities on many boards and committees including the United Negro College Fund/Wilberforce University Joint Campaign; the Aids Foundation, Children Medical Center's Special Needs Blood Drive advisory board, and the Public Radio News Directors Association. I am a member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church.

My hobbies include reading, singing, and traveling. I have twin daughters: Jade and Jewel.

Q & A

Where were you born?

Dayton

Where did you grow up?

Dayton and Springfield

What was your favorite TV show then?

The Brady Bunch

What was the first thing you ever wanted to be?

News Anchor

How might someone have described you in high school?

Social Organizer

What was your first job?

Waitress at Four's Company, a locally owned sub shop

What was your first job in television?

Reporter - WHIO-TV

What do you like about your job?

The variety of news covered, and the ability to meet people from all walks of life.

What do you not like about your job?

Talking to people who have been struck by tragedy.

What might people be surprised to know about you?

I have twins

What is the hardest thing you ever did?

Held my mom as she went to heaven.

What would be a perfect day for you?

Quiet day at the beach with a good book.

What advice would you have for someone wanting to go into the business?

Learn the art of persuasion and conversation. Perfect the ability to creatively write in a clear and concise manner, and articulate, enunciate, and appreciate the opportunity.

If you could only keep one 5-minute tape from your career what would be on it?

A mix of reports on breaking news like shootings and fires, weather coverage during a winter storm, one-on-one interview with a political figure, a montage of anchoring, and several public service announcements for community groups.

Favorites

Favorite book: Quiet Strength by Tony Dungy

Favorite CBS show: Two And A Half Men

Favorite dream car: Lexus Luxury Utility LX edition

Favorite food: Seafood, pasta

Favorite hobby: Reading

Favorite Miami Valley place: RiverScape

Favorite movie: The Wiz

Favorite music: R & B, Gospel

Favorite travel destination: Jamaica