While new to WJXT, Melanie Lawson is no stranger to Florida. She grew up in Longwood, just two hours south of Jacksonville.

She attended Hampton University in Virginia before beginning her career in journalism at WBOC-TV in Salisbury, Md., and Dover, Del. While at WBOC, she covered Delaware legislature, Dover Air Force Base and in-depth health stories, to name a few.

After covering stories in Delaware, she left to become the station's noon and 7 p.m. news anchor, as well as the health reporter. She received an Associated Press award for a half-hour health special that she wrote, co-produced and hosted. It focused on three deadly health conditions that plagued the community.

Hosting the half-hour health special was just one way Melanie was involved in the community. She has participated in community theater, hosted multiple public service events, mentored children in her neighborhood and is a member of the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization.

Melanie always enjoys contributing to her community and sharing the knowledge she has gained while working in broadcast journalism. She has taught college courses in journalism and broadcast writing.

She feels it is important for students to have a good understanding of the career that they are choosing, so she enjoyed bringing her experiences to the classroom.

Melanie is very excited to be back in the Sunshine State near family and to be able to enjoy the warm winter weather.

Contact Melanie Lawson