Is Melissa Ross Leaving WJCT? After 14 Years, Melissa Ross is Leaving WJCT
by Srinithi
Updated Jun 15, 2023
Who is Melissa Ross?
Melissa Ross joined WJCT in 2009, bringing with her 20 years of broadcasting experience. Throughout her career as a television and radio news anchor and reporter, she has worked in various cities such as Cincinnati, Chicago, Orlando, and Jacksonville. Melissa has been recognized for her outstanding work, receiving four regional Emmys for both news and feature reporting.
At WJCT, Melissa serves as the host of First Coast Connect with Melissa Ross, a program that covers a wide range of topics and issues affecting the local community. Additionally, she co-hosts the weekly Florida Roundup, which is broadcasted on NPR stations across the state every Friday.
Melissa's dedication to journalistic excellence extends beyond her hosting duties. She participated in the Metcalf Institute Science Immersion Workshop, where she had the opportunity to delve into the science of climate change through hands-on experience.
One notable achievement in Melissa's career is her role as the executive producer of The 904: Shadow on the Sunshine State, a documentary that explored Jacksonville's reputation as Florida's murder capital. This documentary, produced in collaboration with WJCT, received an Emmy in the documentary category at the 2011 Suncoast Emmy Awards, highlighting Melissa's talent for producing compelling and impactful content.
Is Melissa Ross leaving WJCT?
Yes, Melissa is leaving WJCT. Melissa Ross has bid farewell to the airwaves. Ross made a significant impact as a prominent news and public affairs voice in Northeast Florida, notably with her acclaimed show "First Coast Connect with Melissa Ross," which she launched in 2009. In 2018, she also became a co-host of the statewide weekly program "Florida Roundup."
In addition to her hosting duties, Ross served as an executive producer at WJCT. Following the announcement at City Hall, Ross revealed that discussions about joining the Deegan administration had begun a few weeks prior and expressed her belief that the new position aligns with her skill set.
When questioned about her transition from journalism to municipal government, Ross explained that she shares Mayor-elect Deegan's vision for the city of Jacksonville, making it an opportune time for this move.
After 14 years, Melissa Ross is leaving WJCT
After a remarkable 14-year career at WJCT Public Media, Melissa Ross has bid farewell to the airwaves. Ross made a significant impact as a prominent news and public affairs voice in Northeast Florida, notably with her acclaimed show "First Coast Connect with Melissa Ross," which she launched in 2009. In 2018, she also became a co-host of the statewide weekly program "Florida Roundup."
Throughout her journalism career, spanning 20 years in Cincinnati, Chicago, Orlando, and Jacksonville, Ross has been recognized for her contributions. As the executive producer of "The 904: Shadow on the Sunshine State," she and WJCT received an Emmy in the documentary category at the 2011 Suncoast Emmy Awards. The program delved into Jacksonville's reputation as Florida's murder capital.
In a statement, David McGowan, President and CEO of WJCT Public Media, expressed deep appreciation for Ross's vital role in facilitating important conversations within the community and wished her the best as she embarks on this new chapter with the Deegan administration.
Why is Melissa Ross leaving WJCT?
Melissa Ross, the well-known host of Jacksonville NPR's daily public affairs radio program "First Coast Connect with Melissa Ross," has made a transition from the airwaves to a new role in Mayor-elect Donna Deegan's administration. She has taken on the position of Director of Strategic Initiatives and Press Liaison, contributing her expertise to the city's administration.
This significant move was announced by Mayor-elect Donna Deegan on June 14 at City Hall, where Ross stood alongside 13 other appointees who will form the executive team for Deegan's upcoming administration.
According to Jessica Palombo, the Editorial Director of WJCT News, Melissa Ross hosted her final episode of "First Coast Connect" on June 13, marking the end of her tenure as a radio host.
Melissa Ross's decision to join Mayor-elect Donna Deegan's administration demonstrates her commitment to public service and utilizing her skills in a new capacity. Her departure from the radio show leaves a void in the local broadcasting scene, as she has been a familiar voice and a respected journalist for a significant period of time.
WJCT
WJCT-FM (89.9 MHz) is a well-established public radio station situated in Jacksonville, Florida. As an NPR member station, it serves as a valuable source of informative and engaging programming for the community. WJCT-FM is owned by WJCT, Inc. and operates in close proximity to its sister PBS station, WJCT (channel 7), on Festival Park Avenue, conveniently located near TIAA Bank Field in Downtown Jacksonville's Stadium District. The station's transmitter facilities are situated on Hogan Road, within the Killarney Shores area of the city.
One notable feature of WJCT-FM is its utilization of HD Radio technology. This allows the station to broadcast multiple subchannels alongside its primary programming. Among these subchannels is Classical 24 on HD2, providing a continuous stream of classical music for enthusiasts. HD3 is dedicated to Anthology, a subchannel featuring classic hits that resonate with a wide range of listeners.
Additionally, WJCT-FM broadcasts "The Independent" on HD4, which focuses on adult album alternative music, catering to those seeking a diverse and independent music selection. Moreover, the station operates an analog subcarrier that delivers a regional radio reading service for visually impaired individuals, with the content also being available for online streaming.
Through its commitment to high-quality broadcasting and community service, WJCT-FM continues to be a significant presence in the Jacksonville area, enriching the lives of its listeners with a variety of informative and entertaining programs.
Is Melissa Ross leaving WJCT-FAQ
Yes, Melissa Ross has left WJCT. She bid farewell to the airwaves after a remarkable 14-year career at WJCT Public Media.
Melissa Ross hosted "First Coast Connect with Melissa Ross," a daily public affairs radio program, and also served as a co-host for the statewide weekly program "Florida Roundup."
Melissa Ross decided to leave WJCT to join Mayor-elect Donna Deegan's administration as the Director of Strategic Initiatives and Press Liaison. She believed that the new position aligned with her skill set and shared the vision of Mayor-elect Deegan for the city of Jacksonville.
Conversations about finding a replacement host for "First Coast Connect" have already begun. WJCT will ensure a well-managed process to bring in a new host and continue providing a platform for community conversations.
Melissa Ross played a vital role at WJCT Public Media as a news and public affairs voice in Northeast Florida. Her show, "First Coast Connect with Melissa Ross," emerged as a significant conversation platform, facilitating dialogue between community leaders and citizens. She also received recognition for her work, including multiple national awards for the program.