The newsroom at Action News 5 is draped in silence and sorrow as it confronts the sudden loss of Amanda Hanson, a venerated figure whose vibrant presence and digital innovation prowess left an indelible imprint on the heart of Memphis journalism. A trailblazer in her own right, Hanson’s ingenuity elevated the digital landscape, carving new paths for journalistic storytelling. Her passing at just 38 years old leaves colleagues grappling with the fragility of life and the profundity of her professional legacy.
Hanson’s career arc, a testament to her dedication, saw her progress from a multifaceted media enthusiast to an acclaimed Digital Innovation Leader at Action News 5, known for pioneering digital desks and mastering the dance between journalistic rigor and technological advancement. Her legacy stretches across the digital spectrum of the news industry, where she was revered for both her ability to humanize the news and for her relentless pursuit of accuracy and fairness.
As we chronicle her journey from an exuberant DJ to a leading journalistic voice in the digital realm, we uncover the legacy of a woman who seamlessly blended her love of dance with a commitment to impactful reporting. Hanson’s story is one of tenacity, enthusiasm, and a ceaseless drive to illuminate the world with truthful reporting and innovate how stories are told. The journalistic community now looks back at Hanson’s vibrant spirit, not just through the digital innovations she championed but through the warmth and kindness that characterized her interactions with colleagues and viewers alike.
In honoring Hanson, we invite a kaleidoscope of voices from the industry to reflect on the impact she had on their lives and careers, forming a mosaic of tributes that echo the sentiment of loss and admiration. Her influence on future journalists, through her mentorship and dedication to digital mastery, will be scrutinized as we acknowledge the void her departure creates and celebrate the digital legacy she has bequeathed to journalism.
Amanda Hanson’s journey through the bustling world of journalism was not just a profession; it was a passion that she nurtured with every beat and story. Her narrative is a rich tapestry woven from her earliest aspirations to her status as an innovator in digital media.
The seeds of Amanda’s journalistic flair were sown in Memphis, a city she called home and where she began to sketch the contours of her future. The University of Memphis played a pivotal role in shaping her formative years, where the campus became a cradle for her growing talent. As a student, Amanda was not just confined to the lecture halls; the dance studios became her refuge, instilling discipline and an artistic expression that would later become hallmarks of her reporting style. With each pirouette and plié, she harnessed the rhythm that would pulsate through her news narratives, marrying the precision of dance with the spontaneity of live reporting.
Her journey into the echelons of journalism began inconspicuously at the age of 20, not in the glare of the camera lights but behind the scenes as a weekend DJ and promotional team member at WHBQ-FM in Memphis. Her role was one of obscurity, yet essential, laying a foundation in media that she built upon with diligence and zest. It was a foray into the media landscape that would unknowingly set the stage for her future endeavors.
Amanda’s transition to television was characterized by her ever-present ambition and the versatility of her skills. She took up the post of a part-time video editor at WREG, a position that demanded meticulous attention to detail and a keen eye for the visual elements that make a story resonate with viewers. In tandem, she served as a sports multimedia journalist, cutting her teeth on the high-energy beat of sports journalism. Her early days in the industry were not marked by the limelight but by the hard graft in the tape rooms and the relentless pursuit of the next big story.
The call to the news desk came in 2010 when she joined KAIT television station in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Here, Amanda transformed from a behind-the-scenes player to a frontline reporter, where her natural charisma and unerring journalistic instinct came to the fore. It was at KAIT where she etched her name into the hearts of her colleagues and viewers. Known affectionately as “Dancin’ Hanson,” her vivacious spirit shone brightly as she spearheaded “Dance Party Fridays,” a segment that became a beloved staple and exemplified her approach to journalism: informative yet imbued with joy.
Her five-year tenure at KAIT marked a significant chapter in her career as she honed her skills in both anchoring and reporting, covering everything from local events to breaking news. It was a testament to her adaptability and the depth of her commitment to storytelling. In 2015, Amanda’s ambition saw her broaden her horizons further as she moved to Cape Girardeau, Missouri, to take on new challenges as an anchor, an acknowledgment of her rising profile in the journalistic community.
The pull of Memphis was strong, and in 2021, Amanda returned home to a role that would define her legacy. As the Leader of Digital Innovation at Action News 5, she stood at the confluence of traditional journalism and the burgeoning digital realm. Her vision was instrumental in establishing the Action News 5 Digital Desk, a vanguard initiative in the newsroom that became a testament to her forward-thinking approach to news dissemination.
Under her leadership, the Digital Desk evolved into a hub of cross-platform storytelling, integrating the immediacy of social media with the depth and rigor of traditional reporting. Amanda’s digital strategies were transformative, catapulting the newsroom into a new era where engaging content and multimedia experiences were no longer the future—they were the present. Her digital fluency redefined the audience’s news consumption habits, making the news more accessible and interactive than ever before.
Her impact on digital journalism can be measured not just by the cutting-edge projects she spearheaded but by the reverberations felt across the industry. Amanda did not just adapt to the changes in media; she anticipated them, always staying a step ahead in a digital landscape that never ceases to evolve. Her work ethic, creativity, and unwavering dedication to her craft have left an indelible mark on journalism, making her an enduring figure in the annals of digital innovation.
The passion that Amanda Hanson harbored for her craft was matched only by her dedication. From a dance enthusiast to a stalwart in journalism, her career trajectory exemplifies the limitless potential of a curious and committed mind. In each role, from DJ to Digital Innovation Leader, Hanson demonstrated an unwavering commitment to her art, setting benchmarks for both storytelling excellence and digital innovation. Her legacy, as profound as her impact on the craft she so dearly loved, will endure in the hallways of journalism schools and the dynamic screens of digital media for generations to come.
Amanda Hanson’s role at Action News 5 was pivotal to the transformation of the newsroom into a digital powerhouse, reflecting a broader shift in the industry toward a multi-platform approach to journalism. As the Leader of Digital Innovation, she stood at the confluence of evolving technology and storytelling, consistently pushing the envelope to enhance the station’s digital footprint.
Her vision for a digitally integrated newsroom was crystallized with the establishment of the Action News 5 Digital Desk. Under her guidance, this innovative initiative became the heartbeat of the news operation, harnessing the potential of digital tools to deliver news content that resonated with audiences across various platforms. It was Amanda’s conviction that journalism in the digital age demanded agility and creativity, and the Digital Desk exemplified this ethos.
Amanda led a series of transformative projects that underscored her commitment to digital excellence. Among her many accomplishments was the development of the Action News 5 mobile app. The app not only streamlined news delivery but also featured push notifications that alerted users to breaking news and weather updates, ensuring that the community stayed informed in real-time. Amanda understood the critical nature of immediacy in digital reporting, and the app’s success was a direct reflection of her insight into user behavior and consumption patterns.
She also oversaw the integration of live streaming capabilities, which opened up new vistas for audience engagement. During major news events, viewers could turn to Action News 5’s digital platforms for uninterrupted coverage, a service that became invaluable for those unable to access traditional television broadcasts. The initiative expanded the station’s reach, allowing it to serve a wider audience while also tapping into the immediacy that is the hallmark of digital news.
Recognizing the potential of social media to amplify the station’s reach, Amanda orchestrated a comprehensive social media strategy that elevated Action News 5’s presence on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X. Her approach was not just about disseminating news but creating a dialogue with the audience. She nurtured a team of digital journalists who specialized in interactive content, from live-tweeting events to hosting Q&A sessions with viewers. This interactive approach built a loyal online community around the station’s brand.
Perhaps one of her most forward-thinking projects was the virtual town hall series that brought together community leaders, experts, and viewers to discuss pressing local issues. These events were streamed live across multiple platforms, allowing for an unprecedented level of community participation and engagement. The virtual town halls exemplified Amanda’s belief in journalism as a public service, providing a space for informed debate and community connection.
Amanda was also instrumental in leveraging data analytics to refine the station’s digital content strategy. By analyzing viewer data, she and her team were able to curate content that resonated with the audience’s interests and habits. This data-driven approach enabled the station to make informed decisions about content creation, distribution, and promotion, ensuring that each piece of content had the greatest possible impact.
Under her leadership, the newsroom culture shifted to embrace digital-first reporting. Amanda fostered an environment where traditional and digital journalists worked side by side, sharing insights and collaborating on stories. This synergistic approach led to a unified newsroom that delivered cohesive and comprehensive reporting across all platforms.
Amanda Hanson’s contributions to digital journalism at Action News 5 served as a blueprint for other local news stations seeking to navigate the digital transition. She empowered her team to experiment with new formats, from 360-degree videos to podcast series, embracing the potential of digital media to tell stories in innovative ways. Her legacy at Action News 5 is marked by a trailblazing spirit that redefined how a local news station could connect with its community in the digital age.
Through her strategic vision and tireless advocacy for digital integration, Amanda Hanson elevated Action News 5 to new heights, harnessing the power of digital technology to enrich the station’s journalism and expand its reach. Her initiatives reshaped the landscape of local news, setting a high standard for other news outlets and leaving a lasting impression on the evolution of digital news coverage.
The newsroom at Action News 5 is draped in silence and sorrow as it confronts the sudden loss of Amanda Hanson, a venerated figure whose vibrant presence and digital innovation prowess left an indelible imprint on the heart of Memphis journalism. A trailblazer in her own right, Hanson’s ingenuity elevated the digital landscape, carving new paths for journalistic storytelling. Her passing at just 38 years old leaves colleagues grappling with the fragility of life and the profundity of her professional legacy.
Hanson’s career arc, a testament to her dedication, saw her progress from a multifaceted media enthusiast to an acclaimed Digital Innovation Leader at Action News 5, known for pioneering digital desks and mastering the dance between journalistic rigor and technological advancement. Her legacy stretches across the digital spectrum of the news industry, where she was revered for both her ability to humanize the news and for her relentless pursuit of accuracy and fairness.
As we chronicle her journey from an exuberant DJ to a leading journalistic voice in the digital realm, we uncover the legacy of a woman who seamlessly blended her love of dance with a commitment to impactful reporting. Hanson’s story is one of tenacity, enthusiasm, and a ceaseless drive to illuminate the world with truthful reporting and innovate how stories are told. The journalistic community now looks back at Hanson’s vibrant spirit, not just through the digital innovations she championed but through the warmth and kindness that characterized her interactions with colleagues and viewers alike.
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In honoring Hanson, we invite a kaleidoscope of voices from the industry to reflect on the impact she had on their lives and careers, forming a mosaic of tributes that echo the sentiment of loss and admiration. Her influence on future journalists, through her mentorship and dedication to digital mastery, will be scrutinized as we acknowledge the void her departure creates and celebrate the digital legacy she has bequeathed to journalism.
Amanda Hanson’s journey through the bustling world of journalism was not just a profession; it was a passion that she nurtured with every beat and story. Her narrative is a rich tapestry woven from her earliest aspirations to her status as an innovator in digital media.
The seeds of Amanda’s journalistic flair were sown in Memphis, a city she called home and where she began to sketch the contours of her future. The University of Memphis played a pivotal role in shaping her formative years, where the campus became a cradle for her growing talent. As a student, Amanda was not just confined to the lecture halls; the dance studios became her refuge, instilling discipline and an artistic expression that would later become hallmarks of her reporting style. With each pirouette and plié, she harnessed the rhythm that would pulsate through her news narratives, marrying the precision of dance with the spontaneity of live reporting.
Her journey into the echelons of journalism began inconspicuously at the age of 20, not in the glare of the camera lights but behind the scenes as a weekend DJ and promotional team member at WHBQ-FM in Memphis. Her role was one of obscurity, yet essential, laying a foundation in media that she built upon with diligence and zest. It was a foray into the media landscape that would unknowingly set the stage for her future endeavors.
Amanda’s transition to television was characterized by her ever-present ambition and the versatility of her skills. She took up the post of a part-time video editor at WREG, a position that demanded meticulous attention to detail and a keen eye for the visual elements that make a story resonate with viewers. In tandem, she served as a sports multimedia journalist, cutting her teeth on the high-energy beat of sports journalism. Her early days in the industry were not marked by the limelight but by the hard graft in the tape rooms and the relentless pursuit of the next big story.
The call to the news desk came in 2010 when she joined KAIT television station in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Here, Amanda transformed from a behind-the-scenes player to a frontline reporter, where her natural charisma and unerring journalistic instinct came to the fore. It was at KAIT where she etched her name into the hearts of her colleagues and viewers. Known affectionately as “Dancin’ Hanson,” her vivacious spirit shone brightly as she spearheaded “Dance Party Fridays,” a segment that became a beloved staple and exemplified her approach to journalism: informative yet imbued with joy.
Her five-year tenure at KAIT marked a significant chapter in her career as she honed her skills in both anchoring and reporting, covering everything from local events to breaking news. It was a testament to her adaptability and the depth of her commitment to storytelling. In 2015, Amanda’s ambition saw her broaden her horizons further as she moved to Cape Girardeau, Missouri, to take on new challenges as an anchor, an acknowledgment of her rising profile in the journalistic community.
The pull of Memphis was strong, and in 2021, Amanda returned home to a role that would define her legacy. As the Leader of Digital Innovation at Action News 5, she stood at the confluence of traditional journalism and the burgeoning digital realm. Her vision was instrumental in establishing the Action News 5 Digital Desk, a vanguard initiative in the newsroom that became a testament to her forward-thinking approach to news dissemination.
Under her leadership, the Digital Desk evolved into a hub of cross-platform storytelling, integrating the immediacy of social media with the depth and rigor of traditional reporting. Amanda’s digital strategies were transformative, catapulting the newsroom into a new era where engaging content and multimedia experiences were no longer the future—they were the present. Her digital fluency redefined the audience’s news consumption habits, making the news more accessible and interactive than ever before.
Her impact on digital journalism can be measured not just by the cutting-edge projects she spearheaded but by the reverberations felt across the industry. Amanda did not just adapt to the changes in media; she anticipated them, always staying a step ahead in a digital landscape that never ceases to evolve. Her work ethic, creativity, and unwavering dedication to her craft have left an indelible mark on journalism, making her an enduring figure in the annals of digital innovation.
The passion that Amanda Hanson harbored for her craft was matched only by her dedication. From a dance enthusiast to a stalwart in journalism, her career trajectory exemplifies the limitless potential of a curious and committed mind. In each role, from DJ to Digital Innovation Leader, Hanson demonstrated an unwavering commitment to her art, setting benchmarks for both storytelling excellence and digital innovation. Her legacy, as profound as her impact on the craft she so dearly loved, will endure in the hallways of journalism schools and the dynamic screens of digital media for generations to come.
Amanda Hanson’s role at Action News 5 was pivotal to the transformation of the newsroom into a digital powerhouse, reflecting a broader shift in the industry toward a multi-platform approach to journalism. As the Leader of Digital Innovation, she stood at the confluence of evolving technology and storytelling, consistently pushing the envelope to enhance the station’s digital footprint.
Her vision for a digitally integrated newsroom was crystallized with the establishment of the Action News 5 Digital Desk. Under her guidance, this innovative initiative became the heartbeat of the news operation, harnessing the potential of digital tools to deliver news content that resonated with audiences across various platforms. It was Amanda’s conviction that journalism in the digital age demanded agility and creativity, and the Digital Desk exemplified this ethos.
Amanda led a series of transformative projects that underscored her commitment to digital excellence. Among her many accomplishments was the development of the Action News 5 mobile app. The app not only streamlined news delivery but also featured push notifications that alerted users to breaking news and weather updates, ensuring that the community stayed informed in real-time. Amanda understood the critical nature of immediacy in digital reporting, and the app’s success was a direct reflection of her insight into user behavior and consumption patterns.
She also oversaw the integration of live streaming capabilities, which opened up new vistas for audience engagement. During major news events, viewers could turn to Action News 5’s digital platforms for uninterrupted coverage, a service that became invaluable for those unable to access traditional television broadcasts. The initiative expanded the station’s reach, allowing it to serve a wider audience while also tapping into the immediacy that is the hallmark of digital news.
Recognizing the potential of social media to amplify the station’s reach, Amanda orchestrated a comprehensive social media strategy that elevated Action News 5’s presence on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X. Her approach was not just about disseminating news but creating a dialogue with the audience. She nurtured a team of digital journalists who specialized in interactive content, from live-tweeting events to hosting Q&A sessions with viewers. This interactive approach built a loyal online community around the station’s brand.
Perhaps one of her most forward-thinking projects was the virtual town hall series that brought together community leaders, experts, and viewers to discuss pressing local issues. These events were streamed live across multiple platforms, allowing for an unprecedented level of community participation and engagement. The virtual town halls exemplified Amanda’s belief in journalism as a public service, providing a space for informed debate and community connection.
Amanda was also instrumental in leveraging data analytics to refine the station’s digital content strategy. By analyzing viewer data, she and her team were able to curate content that resonated with the audience’s interests and habits. This data-driven approach enabled the station to make informed decisions about content creation, distribution, and promotion, ensuring that each piece of content had the greatest possible impact.
Under her leadership, the newsroom culture shifted to embrace digital-first reporting. Amanda fostered an environment where traditional and digital journalists worked side by side, sharing insights and collaborating on stories. This synergistic approach led to a unified newsroom that delivered cohesive and comprehensive reporting across all platforms.
Amanda Hanson’s contributions to digital journalism at Action News 5 served as a blueprint for other local news stations seeking to navigate the digital transition. She empowered her team to experiment with new formats, from 360-degree videos to podcast series, embracing the potential of digital media to tell stories in innovative ways. Her legacy at Action News 5 is marked by a trailblazing spirit that redefined how a local news station could connect with its community in the digital age.
Through her strategic vision and tireless advocacy for digital integration, Amanda Hanson elevated Action News 5 to new heights, harnessing the power of digital technology to enrich the station’s journalism and expand its reach. Her initiatives reshaped the landscape of local news, setting a high standard for other news outlets and leaving a lasting impression on the evolution of digital news coverage.
The ripple effects of Amanda Hanson’s untimely departure have been felt deeply throughout the journalistic community, prompting a flood of touching tributes and heartfelt messages from peers, mentors, and protégés. The collective grief and profound respect emanating from these individuals underscore the immense impact she had on those around her.
Jamie Tiller, a longtime correspondent at CNN, reflected on Hanson’s relentless pursuit of digital storytelling excellence, saying, “Amanda was the kind of journalist who didn’t just keep up with the times; she set the pace. Her contributions to the digital landscape of news have fundamentally altered how we interact with our audience. Her loss is not just a personal one but a professional void that will be truly challenging to fill.”
Indeed, Hanson was not only a skilled journalist but also a visionary whose work often set the benchmark for innovation. At industry conferences, she was known for leading engaging panels that enlightened others about the future of digital media. Her enthusiasm for the field was infectious, and many credited her for their own forays into digital journalism.
Mark S. Luckie, the author of “The Digital Journalist’s Handbook” and a former manager of journalism and news at X, lamented Hanson’s passing with reverence for her dedication to the craft, stating, “Amanda personified the term ‘digital pioneer’. I’ve watched her lead workshops and advise newsrooms, always pushing them to think outside the box and embrace change. Her passion for this work has influenced countless journalists, myself included.”
The tributes pouring in have not been limited to her groundbreaking work in digital innovation. Colleagues from her days in broadcast journalism also voiced their admiration for her tenacity and spirit. Tom Jolls, a veteran weathercaster with nearly fifty years of experience, fondly recalled Hanson’s unrelenting drive, commenting, “In a field where stories can be here today and gone tomorrow, Amanda Hanson made an everlasting imprint. She approached every story, every innovation with a meticulous eye and unwavering commitment.”
Personal accounts also speak volumes of the relationships she fostered throughout her career. Sarah Blake, a photojournalist who often collaborated with Hanson, shared her sentiments: “Amanda had this way of making everyone she worked with feel like the most important person in the room. She believed in teamwork and always credited her colleagues for their contributions. Her spirit of collaboration made her a joy to work with and is something we will all sorely miss.”
Among the numerous accolades for Hanson’s professional prowess, her vibrant personality has also been a focal point of reminiscence. Darren Ellis, her co-anchor at Action News 5, expressed a profound sense of loss, articulating, “Amanda’s passing has left a palpable emptiness not only in our newsroom but also in my heart. She was always the first to offer support or a word of encouragement. Her smile could light up the darkest day, and her laughter was utterly contagious.”
The leadership at Action News 5 issued a statement that encapsulated the feelings of many: “Amanda Hanson was a beacon of light and leadership in our newsroom. She inspired us all to dig deeper, think critically, and embrace technology to tell compelling stories. Her legacy will continue to guide us as we carry forward the mission she so passionately pursued.”
For many, Hanson was not just an exceptional journalist but also a cherished mentor. Young reporters whom she had taken under her wing spoke with adoration of the guidance she provided. Emily Nguyen, a digital intern who Hanson had mentored, revealed, “Amanda was more than a boss; she was a role model. She had this incredible ability to see potential in people and went out of her way to nurture it. Her belief in me changed the trajectory of my career.”
Colleagues also highlighted Hanson’s unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and the impact it had on their own work. John Kramer, investigative reporter at The Tennessean, stated, “In an age where the lines can sometimes blur, Amanda stood as a bastion of journalistic integrity. She pushed us to not only embrace digital tools but to do so with ethics and honesty at the forefront.”
Hanson’s influence extended beyond her immediate circle to those who followed her career from afar. Tonya Alanez, a regional reporter for the Miami Herald, shared her sentiments on Hanson’s broader industry impact: “Even from a distance, I could see the waves Amanda was making in digital journalism. She was a role model for many of us in the field, and her innovative approach to storytelling will continue to inspire future generations of journalists.”
Amanda Hanson’s life was a mosaic of groundbreaking work and profound interpersonal connections, illustrating the remarkable duality of a life dedicated to innovation and human connection. As the tributes continue to pour in, each one adds another piece to the legacy of a woman who not only changed the landscape of journalism but left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her.
Amanda Hanson’s untimely passing has left a void in the hearts of those she touched personally. Her sparkling personality, boundless energy, and the genuine care she had for those around her made her a magnetic presence. Friends and family have a trove of memories that showcase the depth of her character and her capacity to influence their lives profoundly.
Erica Hansen, Amanda’s sister, often speaks of Amanda’s nurturing spirit, especially during their childhood. “She was the kind of sister who turned every challenge into an adventure. When I was scared of the dark, she filled our room with glow-in-the-dark stars and told me they were our personal nightlights from the universe,” Erica recalls. Those early acts of kindness demonstrated Amanda’s innate ability to comfort and support others, qualities that she carried into her adult life and shared generously with her friends and family.
Her mother, Janet Hanson, reminisces about Amanda’s early drive and determination. “As a teenager, she started a neighborhood newsletter. She was always curious, asking questions and getting to the heart of every story—even back then.” That curiosity became a hallmark of her journalism career, but it was equally present in her personal interactions, where she showed a genuine interest in people’s lives, earning her a reputation as someone who truly listened.
Darren, Amanda’s husband, fondly remembers their first date. “We were supposed to go out for dinner, but we ended up walking and talking for hours. She had this way of making you feel like you were the only person in the world,” he shares. Their connection deepened over time, grounded in mutual respect and love for life’s simple pleasures, like their kitchen dances and shared moments of joy.
Colleagues from her early days in journalism, like former co-anchor Jessica Hart, speak of the impact of Amanda’s presence in the newsroom. “She had this unwavering optimism that was infectious. Even on the toughest news days, Amanda found a way to lift spirits,” Jessica says. Her ability to elevate those around her translated into a work environment where teamwork and positivity flourished.
Friends from college at the University of Memphis, where Amanda was known for her involvement in dance and journalism, remember her as a beacon of encouragement. “Amanda didn’t just participate in activities—she led them with zeal. She encouraged me to join the dance team, and it changed my college experience entirely,” notes longtime friend Lisa Berman. Amanda’s enthusiasm often served as a catalyst for others to discover their passions and follow their dreams.
Amanda’s vibrant spirit transcended her professional life and permeated her role within her community. As a volunteer for local charities, she was known for her hands-on approach and willingness to go the extra mile. “She organized fundraising events, but she also took the time to connect with the individuals we were helping, showing them dignity and compassion,” shares Marcus O’Reilly, a coordinator for one of the charities she supported.
Her ability to balance a demanding career with a rich personal life was something that many admired. “Amanda never let her work consume her. She made time for family vacations, lunch dates with friends, and was always there for the significant events in our lives,” reflects her aunt, Rebecca Powell. It was this sense of balance that allowed her to excel in her career while remaining a devoted daughter, sister, wife, and friend.
Among the most touching reflections are those from her mentees. Katherine Li, a young journalist whom Amanda mentored, remembers her kindness and wisdom: “She had this amazing ability to give feedback that pushed you to improve but also validated your effort. She saw potential where others didn’t, and her guidance has been instrumental in my career.”
As stories of Amanda’s life are shared, a picture emerges of a woman whose professional accomplishments were impressive, but it was the richness of her character that truly set her apart. She gave her time and talents generously, touching lives with her radiant energy and unrelenting positivity. Even as friends and family navigate the profound sadness of her loss, these stories of Amanda’s vibrant spirit offer comfort and a reminder of the love she spread so freely. The legacy of her spirit continues to dance in the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing Amanda Hanson.
Amanda Hanson’s role in shaping the future of journalism was not only demonstrated through her groundbreaking work in digital innovation but also through her dedication to nurturing the next generation of journalists. Her influence extends far beyond the practical skills she taught; it was encapsulated in the way she lived her values and imparted them to her mentees. Her approach to mentorship was built on a foundation of passion, integrity, and a genuine investment in the growth of young professionals in her field.
Katherine Li, one of Hanson’s most devoted mentees, remembers the first piece of advice Amanda gave her: “Don’t just read the news, feel it. Let it move you, and your reporting will move others.” It was this belief in emotive storytelling that made Hanson a beloved figure among upcoming journalists. Her mentorship was rooted in the conviction that journalism was not just about relaying information, but about telling a story that resonated with humanity.
During her tenure at Action News 5, Hanson established an informal internship program where she would invite journalism students from the University of Memphis to work alongside her at the Digital Desk. She didn’t just supervise their work; she worked with them, cultivating an environment of collaboration and learning. Hanson believed that practical, hands-on experience was crucial in understanding the nuances of journalism in the digital age.
Jordan Fuller, a former intern under Hanson’s guidance, recounted how Amanda championed the use of multimedia in storytelling. “She’d say, ‘Your article isn’t just text; it’s a canvas for a multisensory experience.’ She taught us the importance of integrating video, audio, and interactive content to engage with our audience more deeply,” Fuller explained. This advice is not only a testament to Hanson’s innovative spirit but also serves as a compass for budding journalists navigating the digital landscape.
Hanson’s role as a mentor went beyond professional development; she invested personally in each mentee, instilling in them a sense of purpose. She encouraged her interns and junior reporters to pursue stories that mattered to them, fostering a culture where journalists sought out narratives that could foster change or highlight underrepresented voices. “Amanda was a champion of stories that gave a voice to the voiceless. She believed that we, as journalists, have the power to make a difference,” reflected Carlos Mendez, another journalist who was mentored by Hanson.
At Action News 5, Hanson was instrumental in starting a series of workshops focused on ethical reporting and the responsible use of technology. Recognizing the challenges posed by the rise of misinformation, she insisted on the importance of verifying sources and facts, a principle she consistently adhered to throughout her career. Her workshops not only educated but also inspired young journalists to uphold these values in their own work.
Hanson often took the time to speak at local high schools and journalism classes, where she shared her journey and the lessons she learned along the way. She was candid about the struggles she faced, including the pressure to maintain a constant presence on social media and the challenge of balancing personal life with a demanding career. Her openness about these issues helped prepare the next generation for the realities of the job while emphasizing the importance of self-care and setting healthy boundaries.
Her influence also extended to her advocacy for continual learning and adaptation in an industry that is ever-evolving. She encouraged her mentees to embrace new tools and platforms, to be unafraid of experimenting with storytelling formats, and to always look for ways to push the boundaries of traditional media. Hanson understood that staying ahead in journalism required not just keeping up with technological advancements but anticipating them.
Amanda Hanson’s approach to journalism — characterized by her dynamism, integrity, and commitment to innovation — has left an indelible mark on those who worked with her. Her legacy as a mentor is seen in the rising journalists who carry forward her teachings, her passion for the craft, and her belief in the power of stories to enact change. As these journalists forge their own paths, they uphold the standards Hanson set, ensuring that her influence on the industry will resonate for generations to come. Through her mentorship, Hanson has shaped not just the present landscape of journalism at Action News 5, but its future as well.
Amanda Hanson, the trailblazer whose digital acumen redefined the landscape of news reporting, passed away following complications from a medical emergency. She was a force who brought a whirlwind of energy to the halls of Action News 5, where she led the Digital Desk with fervor and innovation. Hanson’s profound influence on journalism and her pioneering spirit crafted a narrative that went beyond the newsroom, touching lives and shaping careers of those who aspired to her level of dedication and excellence.
Her tenure in the industry was a testament to her versatility. She began her journey at KAIT-8, where her segment “Dance Party Fridays” became a unique imprint of her personality. This fusion of journalism and dance revealed early on that Hanson was not one to be confined by tradition. As a journalist, she used every available tool to connect with her audience, turning mundane news delivery into an interactive experience.
When Hanson made the transition to Action News 5, she brought with her a vision that would revolutionize their digital presence. She led the charge in integrating social media, live streaming, and multimedia elements, ensuring that news was accessible, engaging, and a two-way conversation with the community. She was the bridge between the old guard of journalism and the new, guiding a newsroom through the evolving digital age with the assurance and creativity of a seasoned dancer moving to a new rhythm.
The absence of Amanda Hanson from news broadcasting will be profoundly felt. Her influence extended far beyond the newsgathering and storytelling techniques she introduced. Hanson represented a beacon of integrity and innovation, advocating tirelessly for the ethical use of technology in reporting while navigating the murky waters of misinformation and fake news. She instilled these values in her interns and colleagues, who are now standard-bearers of her commitment to truth and accuracy.
Her impact cannot merely be measured in the digital traffic she generated or the awards her desk garnered. Rather, her legacy is embedded in the culture of journalism she helped foster—a culture where news is more than facts; it is a crafted narrative that resonates with empathy and insight. Amanda Hanson’s approach to mentorship was not simply about imparting knowledge; it was about awakening a sense of responsibility toward storytelling and the audiences it serves.
Her colleagues recount stories of Hanson’s hands-on leadership style, her drive for continuous improvement, and her uncanny ability to foresee trends that would keep the newsroom ahead of the curve. Hanson’s role in establishing workshops focused on responsible reporting remains a cornerstone in the development of ethical journalism. Under her guidance, many learned the significance of verifying facts before they become news—a principle more relevant now than ever.
Hanson was also a storyteller at heart. Through her mentorship, she encouraged young journalists to delve into the stories that often lay hidden, untold, or ignored. This has led to a generation of reporters emboldened to seek the truth and bring to light those narratives that can effect change. Her belief that journalism could be a platform for advocacy is now a flame carried by the many she inspired.
The digital advancements she pushed for, the deep-seated values she planted, and the narrative of passion and compassion she crafted are now interwoven into the fabric of Action News 5. Her fingerprints are on the stories that engage, the tools that connect, and the ethos that guides. It is a testament to her visionary approach that her legacy will endure in the years to come, as those who learned from her continue to push the boundaries of digital journalism and carry forth the torch of authentic, heartfelt storytelling.
It’s undeniable that Amanda Hanson’s role transcends that of a digital pioneer. She was a mentor, an advocate for responsible journalism, and a vibrant soul who infused her zest for life into her work. The profound sense of loss at her passing speaks volumes of the space she occupied in the hearts and minds of those who knew her. In her absence, the future journalists, whom she shaped with her wisdom and authenticity, now stand as pillars, ready to uphold the legacy of excellence she exemplified.
Amanda Hanson’s story is not one that concludes with her departure but continues in every digital innovation adopted, in every principled story reported, and in every journalist who enters the industry with the intention of making a meaningful impact. Her pioneering spirit, commitment to truth, and trailblazing advancements will forever be the guiding stars for those navigating the ever-shifting landscapes of journalism, ensuring that while she may be gone, Amanda Hanson’s influence on the world of journalism will resonate for generations to come.
At Entertainment, Bisma Shakeel writes about US Entertainment news. After working as the editor of her college Entertainment news magazine, Bisma went into the Entertainment news industry. Being a fan of Simone Biles, she naturally chose the US Entertainment news. As a dedicated writer, Bisma is particularly interested in writing about the Entertainment. She keeps an eye on Allyson Felix, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, and Simone Biles in addition to Usain Bolt. Whenever Bisma isn’t writing, she likes to ride her bike around or watch web series and movies.