Celebrating Melanie Lawson’s Legacy at ABC13 Houston
After an extraordinary 43-year journey, beloved ABC13 anchor Melanie Lawson is set to retire in January. A true Houston icon, Melanie has been a constant, trusted voice in our community, shaping how we connect with the stories that matter most to us.
A Pillar of Houston Journalism
Melanie’s career at ABC13 has been nothing short of inspiring. As the steady anchor of “Live at 5” and “Eyewitness News at 11 a.m.,” she has guided countless viewers through daily events and major historical moments. Her deep passion for journalism, nurtured by her Houston upbringing, has always shone through in her thoughtful approach to news.
Covering Our City and the World
From local elections to the devastating impacts of Hurricane Harvey and the deadly Texas ice storm, Melanie has covered virtually every significant event impacting our city and state. Her reach extended globally, bringing back stories from Cuba, Panama, Australia, Sudan, and South Africa. She also chronicled the rise of Houston-born superstars like Beyoncé and Destiny’s Child, showcasing the diverse tapestry of our vibrant city.
Interviews with Icons and Leaders
Melanie’s sharp journalistic skills and insightful interviewing style led to some of KTRK’s most memorable conversations. She has sat down with four U.S. Presidents (Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, George H. W. Bush, and Bill Clinton), Vice President Kamala Harris, prima ballerinas Lauren Anderson and Misty Copeland, and spiritual leader the Dalai Lama. Her impressive roster also includes journalistic giants like Barbara Walters and Robin Roberts, the late poet Maya Angelou, music legends Aretha Franklin and Yolanda Adams, and former First Lady Michelle Obama.
A Heart for the Community
Despite the high-profile interviews, Melanie often expressed that her favorite stories were those celebrating Houston’s rich, multi-ethnic community, particularly tales about children and individuals quietly making a difference. Her commitment extended beyond the news desk, as she actively worked with numerous local organizations.
Community Involvement Highlights
| Focus Area | Key Involvement |
|---|---|
| **Arts & Culture** | Houston Ballet, Asia Society, Rothko Chapel, Houston Museum of African American Culture, The Ensemble Theatre |
| **Community Support** | SHAPE Community Center, Children’s Defense Fund, Volunteer Houston, National Multiple Sclerosis Society |
| **Professional Groups** | Houston Association of Black Journalists, Texas Lone Star Chapter of the Emmys, Women in Film and Television, American Leadership Forum |
She also held memberships in the Houston Chapter of Links Incorporated and Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, and served on the Board of Trustees at Princeton University, demonstrating her wide-ranging dedication.
Recognized for Excellence
Melanie’s profound contributions have been recognized with numerous prestigious honors. These include three Emmy Awards, the YWCA’s “Outstanding Women of the Year,” and lifetime achievement awards from the Houston Press Club, Houston Community College, Women in Film and Television, and the Houston Association of Black Journalists. She also received the “Women of Distinction” award from the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation and the Ben and Julie Rogers Ecumenism Award from the Anti-Defamation League.
Frequently Asked Questions About Melanie Lawson’s Retirement
- When is Melanie Lawson retiring from ABC13?
Melanie Lawson is retiring in January. - How many years has Melanie Lawson been with ABC13?
She has been with ABC13 for an extraordinary 43 years. - What types of stories did Melanie Lawson enjoy covering most?
Her favorite stories always celebrated Houston’s rich, multi-ethnic community, especially those about children and individuals making a quiet difference. - What are some of Melanie Lawson’s notable achievements?
She has won three Emmys, interviewed four U.S. presidents, and received numerous lifetime achievement and community service awards. - How can the community celebrate Melanie Lawson?
ABC13 will be celebrating her throughout January with stories, tributes, and memories, and encourages everyone to congratulate her on her well-deserved retirement.
As we prepare to bid farewell to a true legend of Houston journalism, let’s take a moment to reflect on Melanie Lawson’s unparalleled impact and send her our heartfelt congratulations for an inspiring career.
Celebrating Melanie Lawsons ABC13 Houston legacy
