Cleveland’s WKYC Studios Celebrates Third Consecutive Gracie Award Win

WKYC Studios is once again in the spotlight, earning national recognition for its impactful storytelling. 3News journalist Lindsay Buckingham has been awarded a 2025 Gracie Award for her contributions to the station’s acclaimed “Heartstrings” series, which she produces in collaboration with special projects producer Jessica Miller.

Lindsay Buckingham (courtesy: WKYC)

The honor comes from the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF), which revealed this year’s list of honorees on Tuesday. Buckingham was recognized in the News Magazine TV – Local category, highlighting excellence in local broadcast journalism.

This achievement marks the third consecutive year WKYC has received a Gracie Award — a testament to the station's ongoing commitment to compelling, inclusive storytelling.

For five decades, the Gracie Awards have celebrated media professionals who elevate underrepresented voices and challenge traditional narratives. In a statement, AWMF President Becky Brooks emphasized the broader mission behind the awards: “This is more than an awards show — it is a movement that has championed inclusion, representation, and truth in the media.”

Brooks also noted the significance of this year’s Golden Anniversary Gala, which will be hosted in Los Angeles by comedian and actress Fortune Feimster. “The women we celebrate today are shaping the next 50 years, ensuring that our narratives are not just seen or heard, but felt and remembered,” she said.

WKYC’s continued recognition by the Gracies underscores its role as a leader in local journalism, with stories that not only inform — but resonate.

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Brissa Bradfield Joins 3News: A Homecoming for the Ohio Native

Brissa Bradfield

3News is thrilled to welcome Brissa Bradfield to the team, marking a heartfelt return to her home state of Ohio. A Toledo native, Brissa's journey in journalism has taken her across the country, but now she’s back where it all began.

Brissa, a proud University of Akron graduate, comes to 3News from ABC7 in Sarasota, Florida, where she served as the morning news anchor for Good Morning Suncoast. Prior to her time in Florida, she was a morning anchor and reporter in Erie, Pennsylvania, honing her skills in delivering the latest news to early risers.

At 3News, Brissa will be the new 4:30 a.m. anchor for GO! and will also take on traffic reporting duties during the 5 and 6 a.m. hours. Her experience and enthusiasm make her a perfect fit for Northeast Ohio’s morning viewers who rely on the GO! team to start their day informed and ready to roll.

Beyond the newsroom, Brissa is a dedicated Cleveland Browns fan and says she’s eager to be back in Ohio to cheer on her favorite team in person.

Brissa will debut on GO! during the week of April 21. 

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John Treviño Named General Manager at WKYC, Bringing Decades of Leadership to Cleveland

WKYC is set to embark on a new chapter as TEGNA Inc. has named John Treviño the station’s new president and general manager, effective March 24. Treviño brings more than 30 years of experience in local broadcasting and a proven track record of success in digital innovation, community engagement, and newsroom transformation.

Treviño joins WKYC from KBMT-KJAC in Southeast Texas, where he served as president and general manager. Under his leadership, the station saw remarkable growth, expanding its digital platforms, increasing broadcast viewership, and achieving a #1 ranking in key newscasts. His commitment to modernizing operations and fostering strong community partnerships earned the station a Regional Edward R. Murrow Award for Breaking News.

“As I transition to WKYC—a station with a rich legacy of excellence and deep community trust—I’m excited to build on that foundation,” Treviño said. “I look forward to working with a talented team to drive innovation, enhance audience engagement, and position WKYC for continued success in a rapidly evolving media landscape.”

Larry Delia, TEGNA’s Senior Vice President of Operations, expressed confidence in Treviño’s ability to lead WKYC to new heights. “John’s leadership and expertise will elevate our team at WKYC and further strengthen our commitment to serving the Cleveland community,” Delia said.

A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, Treviño has served on several community organization boards and is now preparing to make Cleveland his new home. He and his family will be relocating from Beaumont, Texas.

WKYC viewers can expect continued innovation and a strengthened focus on community-driven journalism under his leadership.

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The Return of Director’s Cut with Frank Macek: A Look Inside WKYC

A beloved insider’s look at Northeast Ohio broadcasting is making its return as Director’s Cut with Frank Macek is back in action. The long-running blog, a staple for behind-the-scenes stories at WKYC, has been a go-to source for media professionals and TV enthusiasts alike.

Frank Macek, WKYC’s seasoned director, has been at the heart of Cleveland television for years, offering a unique perspective on the ever-evolving world of local news. His insights into production, station history, and the people who bring 3News to life have made Director’s Cut a must-read for those who appreciate the craft of broadcasting.

The blog’s return promises a deeper dive into the happenings at WKYC, celebrating the station’s legacy while highlighting the latest developments in news, technology, and storytelling. Whether it’s a look at the evolution of TV production, spotlights on key on-air and behind-the-scenes talent, or reflections on industry trends, Director’s Cut continues to offer something special for both insiders and viewers.

As the media landscape rapidly changes, Frank’s commentary serves as a bridge between the past, present, and future of television. His passion for storytelling and dedication to the station shine through in every post.

Stay tuned as Director’s Cut with Frank Macek brings fresh insights and behind-the-scenes coverage of WKYC, reminding us why local news matters—and why Cleveland continues to be a powerhouse in broadcast journalism.

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