Somers Alum Wins Two Emmy Awards

Michael S. Valerio, a 2006 graduate of Somers High School and WWBT Richmond VA weekend news anchor, was the recipient of two Emmy Awards by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences at their 57th Emmy Awards ceremony on June 27, 2015 in Bethesda, MD.

The two award stories involved tragedies, a hot air balloon crash (Disaster In The Sky) and the unfortunate resolution of a lengthy and intensive search for a missing University of Virginia co-ed (UVA Student Remains Found). Michael’s sensitive yet informative handling of both very difficult pieces was recognized by the judges. These are Michael’s first Emmy Awards.

“Along with my parents, my teachers at Somers High School gave me the communications and critical thinking skills that have allowed me to grow as a broadcast journalist. These two Emmys are testament that if you believe in yourself and persevere, you can accomplish your life’s dreams.”

After graduating from Somers High School, Michael attended the School of Media and Public Affairs at The George Washington University in Washington DC, graduating Summa Cum Laude in 2010 with a degree in Journalism & Mass Communications.

After graduation, Michael started his broadcasting career at WCTI in New Bern, North Carolina as a general assignment reporter. In 2013, he joined the staff of WWBT, a NBC affiliate. In 2015, he was appointed Weekend Anchor in addition to his duties on the Breaking News and Government & Politics desk. Valerio speaks French and Italian, and has a command of Arabic, Spanish and Japanese. He can be reached by email at mvalerio@nbc12.com and on Twitter @MikeNBC12

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