Shayla Reaves Biography: Age, Height, Husband, WCCO News Career, Salary, Awards, Family Life & Facts

Shayla Reaves is an Emmy Award-winning American journalist and news anchor currently recognized for her prominent role at WCCO-TV in Minneapolis, Minnesota. As a seasoned storyteller with a career spanning several major U.S. markets, she has become a household name in the Twin Cities, delivering impactful news with a blend of professional rigor and genuine empathy. This comprehensive Shayla Reaves biography explores her journey from the Bluegrass State to the forefront of midwestern journalism, detailing her career milestones, family life, and the dedication that defines her work.

Quick Facts

Early Life & Education

Childhood

Shayla Reaves was born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky. Growing up in a household that valued education and civic engagement, she was encouraged from a young age to find her voice. Her mother, a dedicated educator, played a pivotal role in shaping Shayla’s communication skills, often emphasizing the importance of literacy and storytelling. Shayla’s childhood in Louisville provided her with a rich cultural background that she frequently credits for her ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

School Years

During her primary and secondary education in Kentucky, Shayla was known for her academic excellence and her involvement in public speaking and writing. She was a natural communicator, often participating in school plays and debate teams. These early experiences laid the foundation for her interest in broadcast journalism, as she realized she had a talent for distilling complex information into relatable narratives.

University & Training

Following high school, Shayla moved to Evanston, Illinois, to attend the prestigious Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University. Northwestern is widely considered one of the top journalism programs in the world, and Shayla thrived in its rigorous environment. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Journalism, focusing on broadcast news. During her time at Medill, she didn’t just study theory; she spent her summers interning at major news outlets, honing her reporting skills and learning the technical aspects of television production. She was also an active member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., an organization she remains involved with today.

Career Journey

Career Beginnings in the Bluegrass State

Shayla Reaves began her professional on-air career at WBKO-TV in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Serving as a general assignment reporter and anchor, she learned the “one-man-band” style of journalism—shooting her own video, editing her stories, and presenting them live. This period was crucial for her development, as it forced her to master every aspect of the newsroom. Her work in Bowling Green caught the attention of larger markets, leading her to transition to Tennessee.

Rising Through the Ranks in Nashville

Shayla moved to Nashville to work for WTVF-TV (NewsChannel 5). In the “Music City,” she covered a wide range of topics, from local politics to major breaking news events. Nashville served as a significant training ground where she refined her investigative reporting skills. Her ability to remain calm during live breaking news and her knack for finding the “human element” in every story began to distinguish her from her peers.

Moving to the Sunshine State: Tampa Bay

Before arriving in Minnesota, Shayla spent several years at WTVT-TV (FOX 13) in Tampa, Florida. As a reporter and fill-in anchor in a top-20 market, she handled high-pressure assignments, including hurricane coverage and major criminal trials. Tampa’s diverse demographic allowed her to expand her reporting repertoire, covering issues affecting the African American community and highlighting local success stories. It was during her time in Tampa that she solidified her reputation as a journalist who prioritizes accuracy and community impact.

Joining the WCCO-TV Team in Minneapolis

In late 2020, Shayla Reaves made a significant move to the Twin Cities to join WCCO-TV (CBS Minnesota). She initially joined the team as a reporter and was soon promoted to the morning anchor desk. Her arrival coincided with a period of intense news activity in Minnesota, including the aftermath of the civil unrest in 2020 and the subsequent legal proceedings that garnered international attention.

At WCCO, Shayla has become a staple of the morning routine for thousands of Minnesotans. Her segment “The 4,” as well as her morning news blocks, showcase her versatility. Whether she is interviewing a local business owner or reporting on legislative changes at the State Capitol, she maintains a consistent level of professionalism and warmth.

Career Stats & Milestones

Net Worth & Earnings

Estimated Net Worth

As of 2026, Shayla Reaves’ net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $2 million. This figure is based on her tenure in major television markets (Tampa and Minneapolis), her seniority as a morning anchor, and her various speaking engagements.

Income Streams

• Journalism Salary: As a primary anchor in a major market like Minneapolis-St. Paul (Market Rank #14 or #15), her annual salary is estimated to range between $120,000 and $185,000.
• Public Speaking: Shayla is a frequent guest speaker at journalism conferences and community events, which provides additional income.
• Media Consulting: While primarily focused on WCCO, experienced journalists of her caliber often consult for media workshops and university programs.

Real Estate & Investments

Shayla and her husband, Chris, own a home in the Twin Cities metro area. While they keep their private investments out of the limelight, the couple is known to invest in their local community and support educational initiatives.

Personal Life

Family Background

Shayla is very close to her family back in Kentucky. She often shares photos of her parents on social media, particularly on Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, citing them as her biggest inspirations. Her mother’s background in education clearly influenced Shayla’s passion for mentorship and community service.

Marriage & Spouse

Shayla Reaves is married to Chris, a professional who works in the healthcare/medical field. The couple often shares glimpses of their life together, showing a partnership built on mutual support for their demanding careers. Chris is frequently seen supporting Shayla at community charity events and station-sponsored galas.

Children

The couple welcomed their daughter, Sloane, a few years ago. Shayla has been open about her journey as a working mother, often sharing the joys and challenges of balancing early-morning anchor shifts with raising a young child. Her “Mom life” content on social media has resonated deeply with her audience, making her even more relatable to viewers.

Hobbies, Interests & Lifestyle

Outside of the newsroom, Shayla is a fitness enthusiast. She enjoys running and participating in local 5K races. She is also a self-proclaimed “foodie” who enjoys exploring the vibrant culinary scene in Minneapolis and St. Paul. As a member of Delta Sigma Theta, she remains committed to public service, often volunteering for youth mentorship programs.

Awards & Achievements

Shayla’s trophy case reflects her commitment to excellence in broadcast journalism.

• Regional Emmy Award | Breaking News | 2022 | NATAS Midwest Chapter: Awarded for her live coverage and reporting on significant local events in the Twin Cities.
• Emmy Nomination | Best Morning Newscast | 2021 | NATAS: Recognized as part of the WCCO morning team.
• Associated Press Award | Best Spot News | 2013 | Tennessee AP: For her quick and accurate reporting during a major weather event in Nashville.
• Distinguished Alumna Award | Northwestern University (Medill): Recognized for her contributions to the field of journalism and her mentorship of young reporters.

Physical Statistics

Shayla maintains a healthy and active lifestyle, which is evident in her on-screen presence.

• Height: 5′ 6″ (1.68 m)
• Weight: 132 lbs (60 kg)
• Build: Athletic/Slim
• Style: Known for her sophisticated, colorful professional attire and perfectly styled hair, which has become a hallmark of her television persona.

Quotes

“Stories are the soul of a community. If we don’t tell them with heart, we aren’t doing our jobs as journalists.” — Shayla Reaves, Interview with Medill Reports (2021)

“Representation matters. Every time I sit at that anchor desk, I am mindful of the little girls watching who now know that their voices have a place in this world.” — Keynote Speech at WCCO Community Event (2023)

Favorites

• Food: Kentucky-style Soul Food and Mediterranean cuisine.
• Color: Royal Blue (often associated with her sorority).
• Book: Becoming by Michelle Obama.
• Travel Destination: The Caribbean and the rolling hills of Kentucky.
• Sport: College Basketball (specifically supporting Kentucky and Northwestern).

Interesting Facts

• Sorority Life: She is a very active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and often participates in their community service initiatives.
• Morning Bird: Despite the 2:00 AM wake-up calls for the morning news, she claims to actually enjoy the stillness of the early morning.
• Kentucky Colonel: Shayla has been honored with the title of “Kentucky Colonel,” the highest honor bestowed by the Governor of Kentucky in recognition of an individual’s noteworthy accomplishments and outstanding service.
• Mentorship: She regularly hosts workshops for aspiring journalists of color, helping them navigate the complexities of the broadcast industry.
• Tech Savvy: Unlike some traditional anchors, Shayla is highly involved in the digital side of WCCO, often producing her own social media segments.
• Animal Lover: While she doesn’t post about them constantly, she has expressed a great fondness for dogs and supports local animal shelters.
• Music Taste: Growing up in Louisville and working in Nashville, she has a deep appreciation for both R&B and Country music.
• Health Advocate: She frequently uses her platform to discuss maternal health and wellness, particularly for women of color.

Did You Know?

• Did you know Shayla Reaves graduated from the same journalism school (Medill) as legendary broadcasters like Brent Musburger and Sheinelle Jones?
• Did you know Shayla was once a competitive runner before starting her high-intensity career in television news?
• Did you know that despite living in the snowy North, Shayla still considers herself a “Southern girl at heart” and misses Kentucky barbecue?
• Did you know Shayla is an Emmy winner who actually started her career behind the camera, learning to edit and shoot her own footage?

Social Media

Shayla is highly active on social media, where she engages with her “WCCO morning family” and shares behind-the-scenes glimpses of life at the station.

• Instagram: @ShaylaReaves
• X (Twitter): @ShaylaReaves
• Facebook: Shayla Reaves WCCO
• LinkedIn: Shayla Reaves Professional Profile

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How old is Shayla Reaves?
As of 2026, Shayla Reaves is 40 years 4 months old years old. She celebrates her birthday on January 19th every year.

Q2: Is Shayla Reaves still with WCCO?
Yes, Shayla is a primary morning anchor and reporter for WCCO-TV (CBS News Minnesota) in Minneapolis.

Q3: Who is Shayla Reaves’ husband?
Shayla is married to a man named Chris. While he occasionally appears on her social media, he maintains a private professional life in the healthcare sector.

Q4: Where is Shayla Reaves from?
She is originally from Louisville, Kentucky, and remains very proud of her Bluegrass roots.

Q5: What is Shayla Reaves’ salary at WCCO?
While WCCO does not publicly disclose exact salaries, top anchors in the Minneapolis market typically earn between $120,000 and $185,000 annually.

CONCLUSION

Shayla Reaves has solidified her place as one of the most trusted voices in Minnesota journalism. Her journey from a young student in Louisville to an Emmy-winning anchor in Minneapolis is a testament to her work ethic, storytelling ability, and genuine connection with her audience. As she continues to lead WCCO’s morning coverage, her legacy of community-focused reporting and mentorship ensures she will remain a pivotal figure in the media landscape for years to come. Whether she is breaking down complex news or sharing a laugh with her co-anchors, Shayla Reaves embodies the future of empathetic, local journalism.

Sources:

• WCCO-TV Official Bio
• Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism Alumni Records
• National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (Midwest Chapter)
• Industry Salary Estimates via Glassdoor and Talent.com (Media Sector)