2008 40 Under 40 Honoree: Natalie Nunn

That’s why the morning weather anchor at KSPR is taking meteorology classes through Mississippi State University while working fulltime. The school’s online program teaches advanced meteorology skills to on-air talent.

Nunn planned on a broadcast career, graduating in three years from Evangel University and taking 23 credit hours while working at KSPR her last year. She didn’t exactly plan on talking about the weather.

“They stuck me up there one day and it flowed, I guess,” Nunn says. “I was incredibly nervous.”

Flexibility on the job helps. During a transition time at her station, Nunn worked six weeks straight in many roles, sometimes simultaneously juggling the hats of news producer, weather producer, news anchor and weather anchor. “It was really a one-woman show on those nights,” she said. “Having a positive get-up-and-go attitude is how I lead by example.”

In spite of a broadcaster’s schedule, Nunn offers her skills to the community. She was asked this year to serve on the advisory committee for Pregnancy Care Center’s new building. She also taught a class to Boy Scouts working to earn weather badges. Nunn also has volunteered at various Convoy of Hope outreach efforts.

She strives to be a positive face for viewers each morning.

“Early in my career, I remember worrying about how I looked and came across on camera. Then it hit me. It’s not about me, and it never will be,” Nunn says.

“My job is to serve the audience, encouraging them to be their best. Balance is part of that.

“In 23 short years, I have been blessed beyond measure,” Nunn says. “I believe my proudest accomplishment is remaining balanced and true to myself despite being successful at a young age.”

But achieving balance will remain a work in progress, especially after she gets married in August.

“You could literally work 24-7. I think you have to be balanced. … You have to have a personal life,” Nunn says.

Just don't ask Nunn to do anything past dinnertime.

“By 7, when you get up at 2:40, you’re ready to hit the bed,” she says.

Double Play

Birth date: Jan. 25, 1985

Family: I have two sisters (who are) 15 and 13 years older than I am. I was born and raised in Marshfield, so working in Springfield makes me the local girl. My sisters, their husbands and seven kids all live at Lake of the Ozarks. My parents (are moving) that direction as well. On Aug. 1, I will marry the greatest guy in the world, Frank Tristan.

Philosophy to live/work by: When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, ‘I used everything you gave me.’ – Erma Bombeck

In a fantasy world, which professional sport would you play? I would take a swing at the Olympics, in gymnastics or freestyle skiing.

Information accurate at the time of the honor.