Laura Hettiger is a beloved television personality, widely recognized for her stellar work as an anchor and co-host on KMOV in St. Louis, Missouri. With her Emmy-winning journalism, magnetic on-screen presence, and passion for giving back to her community, Laura has earned admiration across the region. Her career trajectory highlights her relentless drive, and her estimated earnings have sparked curiosity about Laura Hettiger net worth and the factors contributing to her professional success. This article dives deep into Laura’s background, accomplishments, and financial milestones.
Early Life and Family Background
Laura Hettiger was born in Flora, Illinois, where she was raised in a supportive family environment. From an early age, Laura displayed a natural charisma and a penchant for storytelling. While details about her parents remain private, their encouragement played an influential role in shaping her future in journalism.
Laura’s family life continues to play a pivotal role in her successes. Currently, she resides in St. Louis with her husband, Dr. Mark Gdowski, and their two children. She balances her demanding career and family life with grace, often sharing glimpses of her personal moments with her audience.
Education and Cheerleading Pursuits
Laura attended the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where she earned both a Bachelor’s degree in News-Editorial Journalism and a Master’s degree in Broadcast Journalism. Additionally, she was an active member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority and a cheerleader for the Fighting Illini.
However, her time as a cheerleader came to an abrupt end when she suffered a severe knee injury during a basketball game. This accident tore nearly every ligament in her knee, forcing Laura to shift focus. Instead of dwelling on the incident, she found strength in adversity, adopting a tenacious spirit that would define her career. Her motto, “never give up,” has guided her through challenges.
Career Highlights
Laura Hettiger’s career is a testament to hard work, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to delivering quality journalism. She joined KMOV in 2012 as a general assignment reporter before becoming a traffic anchor on the morning show. By 2015, she transitioned to co-hosting two of KMOV’s lifestyle shows—Great Day St. Louis and My St. Louis Live—where she continues to charm viewers.
Highlights of her career include:
- Winning her first Emmy Award for General Assignment Reporting in recognition of her coverage of the Ferguson unrest.
- Being voted St. Louis’ favorite news anchorwoman by St. Louis Magazine in both 2019 and 2020.
- Launching “Laura’s Run 4 Kids”, a charity event that supports local students and has raised close to $500,000.
Her passion for telling people’s stories and shedding light on community issues has cemented her status as a trusted figure in St. Louis journalism.
Laura Hettiger Net Worth
Laura Hettiger has achieved substantial financial success, thanks to her career as a journalist and television anchor. Laura Hettiger net worth is estimated between $500,000 and $1.2 million, primarily stemming from her role at KMOV, sponsorships, and other ventures.
Breakdown of Laura Hettiger Net Worth
| Source of Income | Estimated Contribution |
|---|---|
| Salary (KMOV Anchor & Co-Host) | $300,000 – $500,000 annually |
| Sponsorships and Endorsements | $50,000 |
| Charity and Community Initiatives | NA (Voluntary Contributions) |
| Miscellaneous Ventures | $100,000 |
| Total Net Worth | $500,000 – $1.2 million |
Despite her financial achievements, Laura remains grounded and dedicates much of her time to charitable causes.
Physical Attributes and Personality Traits
Laura Hettiger is known for her enthusiastic personality both on- and off-screen. While her precise height and weight are not disclosed, she maintains a healthy lifestyle and an active routine. Her energy and positivity are often highlighted by fans, making her a relatable and inspiring public figure.
Personal Struggles and Lessons Learned
Throughout her life, Laura has faced significant challenges that have shaped her resilient attitude. Her cheerleading injury taught her to persevere, a quality she would later need during her demanding career and coverage of sensitive topics like the Ferguson unrest.
She has also balanced the pressure of professional success with personal growth, finding time to pursue her passions and invest in community initiatives.
Charitable Work and Community Engagement
Laura Hettiger’s love for her community goes beyond her professional obligations. She serves on the Board of Directors for the St. Louis Crisis Nursery and The Little Bit Foundation, organizations focused on supporting children and families.
One of her most notable contributions is Laura’s Run 4 Kids, an annual 5K and family fun run that benefits local students by raising funds for educational resources. This initiative reflects Laura’s dedication to giving back and impacting lives positively.
Awards and Notable Projects
Laura has earned widespread recognition for her efforts in journalism and community service. Some of her notable accolades include:
- Regional Emmy Award for her Ferguson reporting.
- Being named a Hometown Champion by St. Louis Magazine for her charitable contributions.
- Consistent praise for her engaging Twitter feed and dynamic TV presence.
Her efforts in community empowerment and storytelling have left an indelible mark on both viewers and colleagues.
Final Thoughts on Laura Hettiger Net Worth
Laura Hettiger exemplifies what it means to blend professional success with purpose-driven living. Whether she’s anchoring a morning show or spearheading charitable runs, Laura approaches every task with enthusiasm and grace.
Laura Hettiger net worth reflects years of hard work, but her influence extends far beyond financial achievements. She has built a legacy of resilience, generosity, and inspiration, reminding others to pursue meaningful lives.
With continued dedication to both her career and her community, Laura remains a beloved figure in St. Louis, serving as a role model for aspiring journalists and philanthropists alike.
