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Welcome Amaya Ward: A Dynamic New Voice in Cleveland’s Newsroom

By Frank Macek

Please join me in welcoming Amaya Ward to our newsroom team! A passionate, multi-skilled journalist, Amaya joins us from KFOR-TV in Oklahoma City, where she made her mark as a reporter dedicated to telling stories that matter. Her time there included coverage of vital community services like mobile medical clinics for homeless veterans, crime and public safety cases, youth nutrition efforts, and wildfire relief programs. With each story, Amaya worked to shine a light on people at the heart of the news—those who might otherwise go unheard.

Amaya Ward (Courtesy: KFOR-TV)
Amaya’s journalism journey began at the University of Oklahoma, where she graduated from the Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication. During her time there, she became a familiar face on OU Nightly as both an anchor and reporter. She also worked as a sports pad host and served briefly as a Washington D.C. correspondent, gaining valuable experience across a wide range of formats and topics. Her ability to adapt and lead in fast-paced news environments was clear early on and continues to guide her professional approach.

While Amaya was born and raised in Tyler, Texas, her personal story is woven from threads that stretch across the country. With family living in many different places, she’s always had a broad perspective on community, people, and purpose. That upbringing—rooted in strong family values and exposure to different environments—has shaped her storytelling style: authentic, compassionate, and focused on impact.

Her move to Cleveland represents more than just a career change; it’s a new chapter. Amaya is enthusiastic about immersing herself in Northeast Ohio—its people, neighborhoods, and news landscape. She brings with her not only newsroom experience but also the energy and curiosity of someone eager to grow and make a difference. Her work has already earned praise from mentors, like Gaylord College’s respected sports director Nate Feken, who recognized her early potential and passion for the craft.

In addition to her on-air talent, Amaya possesses a strong set of technical skills. She’s proficient in Adobe Premiere Pro, experienced with social media integration, and has a keen sense for video production, which she developed while producing her own reports in the field. These are the qualities that define the modern journalist—versatile, self-sufficient, and always connected to the audience.

Amaya’s first day in our newsroom will be July 28th, and she’s already looking forward to getting started. She describes herself as “very excited to get started,” and it shows in every interaction. Whether she’s stepping in front of the camera or working behind the scenes, Amaya brings a level of commitment and enthusiasm that is sure to resonate with viewers across Cleveland.

We couldn’t be more excited to have her on board. Amaya Ward is a rising talent in journalism, and we are proud she’s chosen to write her next chapter with us. Please join me in giving her a warm Northeast Ohio welcome!

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