7News reporters awarded for excellence in journalism at Virginias AP Broadcasters Awards

GREENBRIER COUNTY, W.Va. (WTRF) — The Virginias Associated Press Broadcaster’s award ceremony was held at the Greenbrier resort on Saturday, and 7News and crew were the proud recipients of some of the prestigious awards being given.

7News anchor and legend DK Wright was awarded the West Virginia Lifetime Achievement award for her hard work and dedication in the world of journalism.

DK Wright has a Bachelor of Science in Journalism degree from WVU and made her television debut at WTRF in 1980 as a reporter.

From cold case stories and courtroom coverage to peculiar and feel-good stories, she has done it all in 44 years in the news industry.

Wright is not only an accomplished broadcaster, she is a champion for the community and an animal advocate.

She’s worked with Belmont County Hoof & Paw Humane Agent Julie Larish for the past ten years, fighting for mistreated and abused animals in Belmont County.

Larish says even with hard topics to talk about, DK made her feel at ease.

“She is one of those people that you can just connect with very easily, and that’s what makes the stories with her so easy to do. When I first started this, I scared to death get in front of the camera like petrified, and she just made it so easy.”

Julie Larish | Humane Agent, Belmont County Hoof & Paw

She’s a friend, role model, and professional note-taker.

“When she would come do the interview, she was always so well prepared. You know, the questions she asked were just right on spot. D.K., from the beginning, you know, treated me very well. You know, when you’re not used to doing TV interviews, it can be a little scary. But she said, Just be yourself.”

Dr. William Mercer – Physician, Project Hope

Dr. Mercer shared an example of DK’s dedication.

On one of the coldest days of the year, in the woods and up a big hill, DK was ready to interview.

Co-workers, too, are now friends for life. DK is a treasure in the news industry that we all cherish.

Newsroom Director Brenda Danehart calls her a “class act,” and Sports Anchor Scott Nolte says that when “D.K. Wright shows up to do a story, that the story will be done the way it should be done.”

DK wasn’t the only 7News award winner.

7News Anchor/MMJ Baylee Martin received second place for the Best MMJ/One-Person Band Reporter 2023.

WTRF-TV won the Virginias Associated Press Broadcasters Award for Excellence in Public Service Through Television Journalism 2023 for its “No One Walks Alone” and the Award for Best Mountain State Heritage 2023 for Veteran’s Voices.

Congratulations, DK and Baylee, from everyone on the 7News team.

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