Good morning Bethlehem, Pennsylvania!
We’re live with four Lehigh alumni who deliver coverage across news, sports, and even your daily weather report. From behind-the-scenes production to live broadcasting, their work spans the full spectrum of media. No two days look the same, and each of these alums thrives in a fast-paced environment with a passion that shows in everything they do.
Kayla Burton ’17
Host at NBC Sports Boston
Burton grew up surrounded by athletics and sports media. Her grandfather played for the Boston Patriots, and her father serves as the sports director for WBZ-TV and WSBK-TV in Boston. Growing up, she and her siblings often watched their dad in the studio, which left a lasting impression.
“My parents instilled a strong work ethic,” she says. “They didn’t care what I pursued, as long as I worked hard at it.”
At Lehigh, Burton balanced interests in basketball and journalism. During her senior year, as her playing time decreased, she reassessed her path and leaned further into media. She joined Lehigh’s multimedia sports program and began creating her own opportunities.
Encouraged by her father, she picked up a camera, approached then-head coach Andy Coen, and asked to interview him before practice. From there, she attended as many practices as possible, building experience and confidence.
While completing the Newhouse master’s program at Syracuse University, Burton faced uncertainty. With just two weeks left in her program, she had yet to secure a sports internship. After staying persistent and praying, she landed an opportunity as Western Mass News.
Starting at the assignment desk, she worked her way up to multimedia journalist. The station didn’t cover sports, so she pitched the idea to start doing it. After gathering support from dozens of local organizations and community members, she turned a “no” into a “yes.”
From there, she built a reel, secured an agent, and went on to roles with NFL Network, ESPN, and now NBC Sports Boston.
“Everyone’s journey looks different; don’t compare yours to someone else’s,” she says. “The behind-the-scenes work is what builds your foundation. Be present where you are now.”
Ariella Scalese ’14
Broadcast Meteorologist at AccuWeather
Scalese knew she wanted to be a meteorologist as early as fifth grade, after a local meteorologist visited her classroom.
“I started watching the local Philadelphia stations religiously and studying the weather maps in the newspaper every morning,” she says. “I’d even use them to plan my outfits for school. That early spark never went away.”
While the weather can be unpredictable, Scalese’s path was anything but. She pursued her goal with focus and determination.
After graduating, she interned in Austin, Texas, before landing an on-air role with a station in Laredo. It offered something incredibly rare for a first role in television: a Monday‑through‑Friday, all‑weather position.
Eventually, she returned to the Philadelphia market, achieving a lifelong goal while moving closer to family. More importantly, each step reflected her growth.
“Since this was my childhood dream, people around me often view reaching a network‑level station like AccuWeather as the ultimate measure of success,” she says. “But for me, success is defined by fulfillment, balance, and personal growth.”
A decade into her career, Scalese emphasizes adaptability in an evolving industry.
“Do your research — especially on salaries, job security, and the realities of local TV,” she says. “Also, consider digital and social media roles, which are growing quickly and can offer more stability and flexibility in some cases.”
She also highlights the importance of mental health, a challenge in the fast-paced news and media world.
“Prioritizing your well‑being isn’t a weakness. It’s a skill that will carry you through every stage of your career.”
Two quotes continue to guide her: “If your dreams don’t scare you, they aren’t big enough,” and, “Growth never comes from comfort zones.”
Renee Washington M.Ed.’16
Sports anchor and analyst at NBCS, FIFA, and ESPN
From day one, Washington has been intentional about building her brand. As soon as she chose broadcasting, she created a website, launched a YouTube channel, and labeled herself an “aspiring broadcaster” across platforms.
That brand reflects who she is at her core. Whether on air or in person, her authenticity stands out and, paired with her drive, has led to consistent opportunities since her time at Lehigh.
“I like to bring personality and connect with people in an authentic way,” she says. “Your career brand still has to be you.”
Washington credits much of her success to fully leveraging the resources around her, including Lehigh’s athletics department, freelance writing, and networking through connections made during several internships.
“Start creating content now,” she advises. “People often wait until they have the job to start doing the work, but you can build experience on your own. Make reels, write, produce videos. Use what’s already accessible and at your fingertips. Don’t wait around for the job.”
She also encourages students to learn directly from professionals in the field.
“Attend conferences, panels, and professional development events,” she says. “I remember being a sponge on the other side of conversations like those. They’re a great way to learn from people and to realize what is and isn’t for you. I’ve watched some people on a panel and then had the opportunity to work with them later. You never know where connections might lead you.”
Kendall Coughlin ’19
Producer at Good Morning America
Coughlin traces her passion for production and journalism back to the Brown and White newsroom. What began as a hobby quickly became a career path, shaped in part by mentorship from Ariella Scalese ’14.
“As I continued to develop my interest in journalism, I connected with Lehigh’s alumni,” she explains. “I wouldn’t be where I am without Ariella. She helped me understand the path forward and gave me the confidence to navigate it myself.”
Coughlin’s ability to connect with others has been a driving force in her career. Whether reaching out to alumni or introducing herself to industry professionals, she consistently seizes opportunities to network.
“Don’t be shy,” she says. “Pick up the phone. People are often willing to help — you just have to ask.”
A lifelong sports fan and former Lehigh club field hockey player, she eagerly volunteered to help cover the Super Bowl when the opportunity arose. Since then, she’s worked four of them, meeting some of the biggest names in the game.
Even now, the excitement hasn’t faded.
“I couldn’t be more inspired to continue working in news and journalism,” she says. “The industry is changing, but news isn’t going anywhere. It’s still essential.”
Despite their accomplishments, all four alumni remain grounded in their journeys. They share a common thread: persistence, adaptability, and a passion for storytelling.
