Mary Kay Kleist Biography And Wiki

Mary Kay Kleist, an accomplished American meteorologist and news anchor, was born on July 10, 1970. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Central Florida in 1992 with a B.A. in Radio and Television and later completed the Broadcast Meteorology Program at Mississippi State University. Mary Kay started her career at WJCL-TV in Savannah, Georgia, where she wore multiple hats as a weekend weather anchor, health and general assignment reporter, news anchor, photographer, editor, and anchor for the local edition of CNN Headline News.

Age And Birthday

Mary Kay Kleist, born on October 3, 1972, is 52 years old as of 2024. She celebrates her birthday annually on October 3.

Height And Weight

Kay Kleist is 5 feet 7 inches tall (about 1.72 meters) and weighs approximately 60 kg (134 lbs).

Educational Background

Mary Kay Kleist graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Central Florida in 1992 with a B.A. in Radio and Television. She later enhanced her expertise in weather broadcasting by completing the Broadcast Meteorology Program at Mississippi State University.

Nationality And Ethnicity

Mary Kay Kleist is an American of white ethnicity. She chooses to keep details about her ancestry and religious beliefs private.

Milestones, Significant Contributions, And Notable Works

Milestones

• Certified Broadcast Meteorologist: Mary Kay achieved the highest industry distinction in 2007.
• Emmy Awards: She won multiple Emmy Awards, including three in 2015 for covering the April tornadoes, producing a severe weather special, and excelling as the best on-camera weather anchor.
• AMS and NWA Seals: She holds both the AMS Seal of Approval and the NWA Broadcasting Seal of Approval.

Significant Contributions

• Weather Reporting: Mary Kay has over 25 years of experience as a meteorologist across print, radio, and TV platforms.
• Community Engagement: She actively supports local causes and participates in community initiatives.
• Educational Outreach: Mary Kay contributes to programs that inspire the next generation of meteorologists and journalists.

Notable Works

• April Tornado Coverage: Her award-winning reporting on the April tornadoes in 2015 earned her recognition.
• Severe Weather Special: She produced a special on severe weather that received an Emmy Award.
• CBS News Chicago Career: Since 2002, Mary Kay has been a trusted meteorologist, delivering accurate forecasts and connecting with her audience.

Family, Siblings, Parents

Mary Kay Kleist is married to Mark Kleist, and together they have two children, a son named Blake and a daughter. She frequently shares family moments on social media, showcasing their strong bond and loving relationship.

Career

Mary Kay Kleist began her broadcasting career at WJCL-TV in Savannah, Georgia, where she wore multiple hats as a weekend weather anchor, health and general assignment reporter, news anchor, photographer, editor, and the anchor of the local edition of CNN Headline News. This multifaceted role provided her with a solid foundation in journalism and weather reporting.

She later moved to Tampa, Florida, where she became the meteorologist for WFLA-TV. In this role, she delivered weather reports for The Tampa Tribune, CNN Headline News, and WFLA-AM Radio, expanding her expertise and reach within the industry.

Mary Kay then joined WXYZ-TV in Detroit, Michigan, where she focused on weather reporting for the station\’s weekend newscasts. Her time there further established her reputation as a reliable meteorologist.

In 2002, Mary Kay became a meteorologist for CBS 2 Chicago, where she has since provided weather updates for the 5 p.m., 6 p.m., and 10 p.m. broadcasts. Her dedication earned her the prestigious Certified Broadcast Meteorologist designation in 2007. Over the years, she has received numerous accolades, including Emmy Awards for her exceptional coverage of severe weather events and recognition from the AMS and NWA for her professional excellence.

Husband And Children

Kay Kleist is married to Mark Kleist, and they share two children—a son named Blake and a daughter. She frequently shares glimpses of her family life on social media, showcasing their strong bond and loving connection.

Hobbies And Personal Challenges

Hobbies

• Mary Kay enjoys star-gazing, a pastime she cherished during family camping trips in Wisconsin with her dad.
• She loves observing storms and has always been fascinated by weather.
• Spending quality time with her family is a priority, and she often shares these moments on social media.

Challenges

• Mary Kay worked hard to establish herself in meteorology, a field that had few women when she began her career.
• She balances her demanding career with her roles as a wife and mother.

Anecdotes And Quotes

Here are a few anecdotes and quotes from Mary Kay Kleist:

Anecdotes

• Mary Kay fondly remembers star-gazing with her dad during family camping trips in Wisconsin. This early experience with the sky likely inspired her passion for meteorology.
• She has always been captivated by weather, often watching storms form and develop, which deepened her desire to become a meteorologist.

Quotes

• On weather: “Weather is more than just a forecast; it’s a story that impacts everyone’s lives.”
• On dedication: “Dedication is the bridge between goals and accomplishments. Stay committed, and success will follow.”

Salary And Net Worth

Mary Kay Kleist’s estimated net worth is $3 million. Her yearly salary falls between $47,000 and $115,500.

Major Achievements

Here are a few Achievements from Mary Kay Kleist:

• Career at CBS 2 Chicago: Mary Kay has been with CBS 2 Chicago since 2002, providing reliable weather forecasts and engaging with viewers.
• Emmy Awards: She won several local Emmy Awards, including three in 2015 for her coverage of the April tornadoes, a severe weather special, and best on-camera weather anchor.
• AMS & NWA Recognition: Mary Kay holds the AMS Seal of Approval and the NWA Broadcasting Seal of Approval, honoring her expertise and dedication.
• Community Engagement: She actively participates in local events and supports community causes.
• Educational Outreach: Mary Kay contributes to educational programs, inspiring future meteorologists and journalists.

Follow Mary Kay Kleist on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram