Name: Justin Dougherty
Graduation Year(s): 2011
Major(s): Broadcast Journalism
Current Position/Job Title: Evening Anchor, Chief Investigative Anchor, and Evening Content Manager
City and State: Greenville, South Carolina
Tell us about your career and what you do now.
My career has taken me to places in the country and world I could’ve never imagined. Trusting in the Lord’s plan for my life, I was able to start my career in my hometown of Springfield, MO. Then I took leaps of faith by moving to Oklahoma City, OK, and then to Boston, MA. After spending 4 years in Oklahoma City and 5 years in Boston, we were given a wonderful opportunity in Greenville, SC.
We’ve been in Greenville for three years where I’ve served as the main evening anchor and chief investigative anchor for the #1 station in the market. We’ve already covered stories that made international news like the Alex Murdaugh murder trial and the deadliest storm in state history, Hurricane Helene. I also served as moderator for three Congressional debates last election season.
Tell us one achievement or accomplishment that stands out in your career!
Serving the community. I’ve been fortunate enough to receive an Emmy Award for my work covering a tornado outbreak in Oklahoma City, and an Emmy nomination for our coverage of a riot in Boston. I’ve also traveled to Finland to study their education system, interviewed President Trump, and even sat down with Reba McEntire in Nashville. But my greatest achievement is simply serving the communities I’ve called home every evening. Being a trusted voice in the community is a responsibility I do not take lightly, especially with local journalism being more vital now than ever before.
What is your favorite memory from Evangel?
Meeting my beautiful wife Sydney (Friar) is a moment I will NEVER forget! I still think about that moment in Dr. Kelton’s class just about every day. But I also remember the encouragement I received from my professors who I now consider my friends. The support from Dr. Pace, Ms. Booze, and Dr. Kelton was instrumental in who I am as a person and a journalist. I also loved my time as a proud resident of K2S!
How did Evangel help you identify/develop your calling?
Without Evangel University, I simply would not be the person I am today. The Holy Spirit pulled me into Evangel for a reason. This is the school where I drew closer to the Lord, met my wonderful wife, and fell in love with broadcasting. I owe so much to Evangel and I’m thankful for everything it gave me. I hope to one day repay it all in some way.
How did your experience at Evangel prepare you for life after graduation?
The individual love and care that I received from each professor, staff member, and peer was a true blessing.
What advice would you give a current student preparing for the workforce?
Take full advantage of everything Evangel has to offer. Grow closer to the Lord and utilize the small community that Evangel provides. Past and present leaders of the school are always willing to help, like family. Reach out and know you are supported by an entire family of Evangel staff and alumni.
What would you look for if you were in a position to hire new graduates from Evangel?
Light. His light often shines through Evangel graduates. But there’s also a glow from graduates that comes from a certain eagerness and hope to be the light in what can be a dark world. Graduating from Evangel is a calling that most Evangel alumni proudly accept.