Anchor Changes in Raleigh *

WRAL, a leading news outlet and part of the Capitol Broadcasting Company made significant anchor lineup adjustments for their renowned WRAL News team. The changes were announced on Wednesday, bringing both continuity and fresh talent to the anchor desk. The beloved and experienced anchor Debra Morgan, who recently completed an extraordinary 30-year tenure at WRAL, will be extending her presence on the anchor desk by shifting to daytime. Morgan will continue to lead the WRAL News at 5 and 6 p.m. broadcasts, but will step away from the 7 and 11 p.m. slots, starting from May 25, 2023.

Morgan's decision to transition to a new dayside schedule comes after reflecting on her remarkable three-decade career with WRAL. She expressed her desire for balance outside of the newsroom, while still remaining dedicated to her passion for journalism and community service. WRAL presented her with an opportunity to continue doing what she loves with a slightly better schedule, and Morgan eagerly accepted. She looks forward to spending evenings with her husband, a new experience for them in their marriage, while still being an integral part of the WRAL family during the 5 and 6 p.m. newscasts.

Recognizing Morgan's immense impact on the newsroom, WRAL News Director Rick Gall assured that despite her shorter workday, she would remain fully engaged in editorial discussions, breaking news coverage, continuous coverage, significant events, and community appearances. Morgan's contribution has been instrumental in the station's success over the years, and WRAL eagerly anticipates her continued involvement.

Debra Morgan's accomplishments speak volumes about her dedication to her craft. She is a recipient of ten regional Emmy Awards and has been honored as the 2017 NC Association of Broadcasters Anchor of the Year and the 2015 RTDNAC Anchor of the Year. Beyond her role as an anchor, Morgan actively engages with various community organizations, including JDRF, ALS Association, and the American Heart Association.

Joining Morgan on the anchor desk will be Gerald Owens, another seasoned WRAL News journalist. Together, these two veteran anchors have amassed over 50 years of experience as the familiar faces of WRAL News, establishing a deep sense of trust with Triangle news viewers.

WRAL & FOX 50 Vice President & General Manager Joel Davis expressed his enthusiasm for Morgan's continued leadership within the news team. Davis highlighted the station's successful practice of introducing new team members while maintaining the guidance of seasoned professionals, a model that has proven effective in the past and will continue with Morgan's transition.

Ashley Rowe, a new addition to the WRAL News team, will primarily anchor the 7 p.m. newscast with Dan Haggerty and join Gerald Owens for the 11 p.m. newscast. Dan, Lena Tillett, and Chris Lovingood will continue with their current assignments on WRAL News at 4, 5:30, 7, and 10 p.m., and Mark Boyle will remain the evening WRAL Live Center anchor.

Rowe expressed her excitement about joining the esteemed team of journalists at WRAL, emphasizing the station's position as a market and industry leader. Rowe's talent and experience are expected to further enhance the news organization's offerings to viewers.

WRAL News Director Rick Gall expressed his satisfaction with Rowe's arrival, noting her wealth of talent and experience that will undoubtedly benefit both the news team and viewers. With these anchor lineup adjustments, WRAL aims to continue providing the Triangle community with top-notch journalism and reliable news coverage.