1/3/2026
ORTING, WASH. — Cassidy Collins of Orting, Washington — a Washington State University cheerleader and Murrow College of Communication graduate — is heading to KTAL-TV in Shreveport, Louisiana, where she will join the station’s news team on Monday January 5th.
Collins’ journey is one defined by determination and resilience. Even when the odds seemed stacked against her, a commitment to growth — supported by mentors, friends, and family — helped pave the way to this next chapter.
The Louisiana-bound journalist explained her decision to relocate, citing personal ties to the region.
“My dad used to live in Haughton, about 30 minutes away from Shreveport, so the region is very familiar to me,” Collins said. “My grandparents still live there, and that had a massive influence on my decision.”
Although Collins received multiple offers from across the country, she ultimately chose KTAL-TV for several reasons — chief among them the station’s leadership.
“Marcus was involved from the moment I applied,” Collins said of News Director Marcus Stroud. “He was authentic and transparent throughout the entire process.”
She added that Stroud’s emphasis on employee development and communication stood out throughout the hiring process.
At KTAL-TV, Collins will serve as a weekday reporter on Mondays through Wednesdays, while taking on meteorologist duties on weekends.
Her interest in media began at Orting Middle School, where she played a key role in the student-run news program Cardinal News while also participating in cheer. There, Collins built an early foundation as an editor, anchor, writer, and producer.
“I started to really enjoy editing,” Collins said. “Storytelling and connecting with people quickly became a passion of mine.”
Orting Principal Matt Carlson recalled Collins’ early focus and drive.
“What set Cassidy apart from her peers was her goal-oriented approach toward the career she is now pursuing,” Carlson said. “Orting High School sits in the shadow of Mount Rainier, and we talk about helping students reach their personal ‘summit.’ Cassidy was determined to reach hers while treating others with compassion and kindness along the way. Cassidy’s personality is bright and her commitment to excellence is strong.”
Orting School Counselor Kritsa Piger remarked on Cassidy’s move, saying, “Cassidy has a bright future ahead of her determination and passion. We are thrilled for her new adventure in Shreveport and have full confidence in her abilities and cannot wait to hear about her success!”
Collins later contributed to Cougar News, Cascade Christian’s student-run broadcast, where she highlighted local businesses, interviewed Orting’s mayor, and showcased student life across both schools.
Before picking up a microphone, Collins found her voice through cheer. Her passion for the sport began in middle school and continued through high school at Orting High School and Cascade Christian.
That journey faced a major setback during her sophomore year in 2020, when she tore her ACL — an injury that became a pivotal turning point.
“My childhood dream was to cheer in college,” Collins said. “Lying in bed during physical therapy, I told myself I would be stronger because of this. I was determined to come back and prove that this setback wouldn’t stop me.”
Once healthy, Collins returned with renewed intensity. Alongside cheer training, she competed in track, performed in theater, took three AP courses, and participated in ASB.
“I would go from school to track practice, then drive to Bellevue for cheer training, get home around 11:30, and do it all over again,” she said.
In January 2022, Collins came away with a High School FCC National Championship in Non-Tumbling. Soon after, she attended a cheer camp at Washington State University — a visit that helped solidify her future.
“My dad earned his master’s degree at WSU, and touring Murrow College made staying in-state feel like the perfect fit,” Collins said.
In April 2022, Collins announced her commitment to Division I cheer at Washington State University, becoming the first female in Cascade Christian history to compete on a Division I team.
Her freshman year brought many unforgettable moments, collegiate national championships in individual and jump jam, while cheering for WSU football including their road upset over No. 19 Wisconsin.
“There’s nothing like a game day in Pullman,” Collins said. “Even when the team struggles, Cougar fans show up. But a Cougar win — that atmosphere is unmatched.”
Midway through her freshman season, Collins faced another challenge, suffering multiple meniscus tears in her right knee. The recovery process lasted more than a year, testing her resilience once again.
“I’m grateful for how I continued to show up and lead, even in those circumstances,” she said. “Don’t listen to the outside noise. You can do it. You’ll come back stronger.”
That same perseverance carried over into her academic and leadership pursuits. Collins served as a senator in the Associated Students of Washington State University, advocating for transparency during Washington State’s transition following its departure from the Pac-12.
She later authored a resolution calling for public access to athletic funding records, emphasizing accountability and student representation.
In the fall of 2025, Collins served as ASWSU’s Engagement Vice Chair, working to strengthen connections between student government and the broader campus community through outreach, events, and advocacy.
Although the impact Cassidy has made in both cheer and student government is substantial, her time at Murrow College was an open door to heading to the South.
Upon arriving at WSU, Collins immediately dove into carving her own path at the Edward R. Murrow, College of Communication.
From that point, Cassidy joined Cable 8, a student-run TV station, where Collins enhanced an array of skill sets. She did it all. Produced, wrote scripts, anchored, reported on sports, but the most significant impact the program had on her was weather.
“I had no experience in covering the weather. Yet I grew to enjoy it. I had to adjust to pointing at a green screen a lot. I was very blessed to have the weather reps I got so early I did since many Murrow students don’t cover weather until their senior year.”
Cassidy Collins embodied the spirit of Edward R. Murrow in the way she approached her work as a student. Her commitment to the craft, her unwavering integrity, and her willingness to tackle difficult stories set her apart. With those qualities she will do very well in Louisiana. – Sara Stout, Assistant Dean, Edward R. Murrow College of Communication of Washington State University
Collins represented Murrow as a student ambassador, and her advice is the same she would tell anyone.
“College is what you make of it. Get involved. Try everything. It’s important to do your own work, networking, and work hard even outside of class. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. So many are afraid about getting over the first hurdle of trying. Don’t be afraid to fail, This society strives for what’s ideal, but to get where you want to go, you have got to work at it.”
That work ethic was put on full display during two of Collins’ most significant projects in her senior year. Her capstone project combined her journalistic training with her student government experience to examine legislation passed by Washington State University in 2020. Collins discovered that only 12 percent of the resolutions approved had been implemented. She used those findings to inform the student body and shed light on the university’s follow-through.
Her most impactful story came in April of 2025 — a deeply personal feature on cocaine abuse on WSU’s campus. Collins brought awareness to the issue through extensive reporting and outreach. The story came at a personal cost, as she lost friendships over the coverage, but for Collins, the impact outweighed the sacrifices.
“I’ve had family members battle other addictions,” Collins said. “To know there are resources available — and to see people not take them — is heartbreaking.”
It was fitting that Collins used her empathy and courage to take on one of the most difficult stories of her college career.
Collins also served as a co-admin for Barstool Wazzu Chicks, gaining visibility through popular fraternity food reviews that drew more than 65,000 views on social media. She previous hosted the Critics Choice Awards Show. Cassidy additionally worked in brand promotion with companies such as Monster, Prime, and Ballout.
Cassidy had the opportunity to intern at news stations such as KHQ-TV in Spokane and KCPQ-TV in Seattle. She also had the opportunity to shadow NBC, Fox, and Inside Edition. She witnessed first hand names among the likes of Allison Hall (Inside Edition), Robin Roberts (Good Morning America), and Chris Jose (WNBC).
The connection to Jose perhaps is the most unique to Cassidy. Jose a former Graduate of Murrow College now anchoring in New York City. We spoke to Jose about Cassidy and what he has seen in her.
Chris Jose: The Murrow College is known for producing top-level talent and I’m thrilled to see Cassidy join a prestigious alumni roster who exemplifies the very best in journalism. Washington State University graduates are in cities across the globe and Shreveport is getting Murrow’s top graduate. Cassidy was so eager to start her career, she graduated early with Cum Laude honors. Edward R. Murrow was and still is the gold standard of ethical, courageous and impactful journalism. Cassidy embodies those same characteristics and it is so special to see her carry the torch to Shreveport.
What stood out about Cassidy when you first met her?
Jose: I’ve mentored dozens of students in my 20 years in television news and I’ve never met someone as ambitious, driven and passionate as Cassidy. Most students have a plan, but most fail to execute and see the big picture.
Cassidy looked at me directly in my eyes and told me she wants to be successful in the ultra competitive world of broadcast news which continues to evolve as a multi-platform business. Success can mean different things, but Cassidy has star like qualities to make it to Los Angeles, New York City and the network. I have no doubt you’ll see her on the Today Show one day.
Cassidy is the hardest worker in the room. She’s smart, beautiful, humble and kind. You get the total package with her and you feel that from the very first time you meet her.
Where have you seen the most growth in Cassidy through the time you’ve known her?
Jose: It’s not easy to be two time zones away from your family. With her parents full support, Cassidy is embarking on an adventure that will launch her career with an incredible opportunity at KTAL/NBC 6. She had multiple offers closer to home, which included television stations in larger markets up and down the west coast. The most growth I’ve seen from Cassidy isn’t newsroom related. It’s the fact she’s learned to bet on herself, ignore the naysayers, and take calculated risks — including a big one that takes her thousands of miles away from her hometown in Washington state.
What makes Cassidy stand out amongst other newscasters?
Jose: Most newscasters starting out just want to be on TV. That gets old quickly and won’t get you very far. Viewers can see right through it.
Cassidy isn’t just versatile as an anchor, reporter and weather forecaster, she knows how to connect with people and dig for information.
As a college student, she did an in-depth investigative story which exposed a major problem on campuses across the country. She got answers, wasn’t afraid to hold powerful people accountable and held her ground.
From breaking news to severe weather to local and national politics, Cassidy’s reporting as an intern has taken her all over Washington state.
What should the Shreveport community expect from Cassidy?
Jose: While Cassidy didn’t grow up in Shreveport, she has deep ties to the community. Her extended family are lifelong residents and she often visits. Cassidy is already familiar with the area and looks forward to calling Louisiana home.
The Shreveport community should consider Cassidy as their friendly neighbor next door. She’s someone you can trust when big stories break. You can go to her if there’s a problem. Cassidy is the type of person you can invite to your weekend BBQ or church event and she’ll show up. Cassidy keeps her word. She knows trust is earned and she’s willing to meet her neighbors anywhere to gain it.
When she’s not at work, I’m sure you’ll find her volunteering for a non-profit. Cassidy is deep in her faith and serving God continues to guide her.
Cassidy credits Jose for his guidance in bringing her to Shreveport. “From our first hour long introductory phone to now, Chris is like a big brother to me. I wouldn’t be where I am today without his help, the way he has carved out his own way and how he has advocated for me means the world”.
Aside from all the professional foundations she has built, the most sacred of which is her family.
Her father, Tommy Collins, serves as the chief of police in Shoreline, Washington.
“He’s such a noble man,” Collins said. “He cares deeply about others — thoughtful, kind, and someone who always made sure I felt deeply loved. He never brought his work home. My dad saw the worst of society, but you would never notice that impact at home. I hope I can be as good a leader and do as good of a job as he does.”
Tommy echoed a similar sentiment.
“I am extremely proud of Cassidy’s accomplishments,” he said. “She has always been driven and has seldom allowed obstacles to get in her way. She continues to show how special she is, and I’m excited for what’s to come.”
Cassidy’s mother, Julie Collins, shared a similar sentiment.
“As a mom, she’s been able to persevere through so many challenges and keep going,” Julie said. “But what has impressed me the most is the person she is. She’s eager to mentor others and tell them the honest truth. She strives to do what is right, not simply what is popular. Tommy and I are so proud of the woman she has become.”
Cassidy about her mom said, “She’s my biggest supporter. She always wanted me to win. The first person to repost my work would be my mom. She pushed me to start networking early. My mom is so caring; helpful; organized; thoughtful. She was a mom to me and my sister first and I will never be able to repay her.”
On top of her parents Cassidy reflects warmly of how her sister, Caylee, is only a quick flight out west. “She’s my best friend. I can’t think of a more compassionate and kind person out there. She is so excited about life having overcome so much herself. It makes me proud to see her as a flight attendant now. I am so blessed to have her as a lifelong friend.”
My Granddaughter Cassidy, she’s so sweet. And she is so special to me. – Carol Goolsby, Cassidy’s Late Grandmother
With her family being the cornerstone, she would not be where she is at today without her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. “There were times where I was in the deepest valleys and He was there for me. All my decisions come from a point of prayer. I would not be able to navigate in life without the Lord.”
With Cassidy leaving WSU, she reflected on the impact she hopes she made. “I hope I impacted students in a positive way, inspiring them to go and advocate for themselves. Learn from the work they do, while not being afraid to go into the community and make their leaders accountable.”
Cassidy’s character moves to Shreveport where she has quickly established herself already. She has jumped on to being a Dancer for the Louisiana Rouxgaroux, a National Arena League Football team in Shreveport.
She is excited to be closer to her grandparents, Ralph and Jane, while continuing to develop her craft. But she will not forget her roots. “I know I’ll be back. No matter where I go, I will always be a Washington girl at heart.”
Her future target is to be a White House Press Secretary. “I love advocating for people, having been a part of student government that would be a dream job for me.”
It has already been a winding journey for Collins — shaped by cheer, advocacy, broadcasting, and compassion. From the Evergreen State to the Bayou, Washington’s gift to Louisiana is an accomplished broadcaster—and an even more remarkable individual.
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