2018 40 Under 40: Heather Lewis, 31

SBJ photo by Wes Hamilton

Updated March 21, 8:50 a.m.

Journalistic integrity for Heather Lewis requires not only a heartfelt dedication to the facts but also a hearty commitment to community betterment. And she’s no slouch, supporting more than a dozen area nonprofits in striving to be a part of the community she covers. She additionally was nominated recently for a Mid-America Emmy Award, recognized with a certificate of merit for best news anchor by the Missouri Broadcasters Association and clinched the competitive promotion to evening news anchor at CBS affiliate KOLR-TV. In the new job since fall 2017, Lewis has strived to help push colleagues in reaching their professional goals by coaching newer staff members in getting acclimated to the community – covering various shifts as needed.

What was your first job? A lifeguard at the age of 16.

What about your job would shock people? It’s a common misconception, but we do our own hair and makeup.

What did you learn the hard way? Just because you fail at something, doesn’t mean you’re a failure. Keep going.

How many times do you hit the snooze button in the morning? My kids are my alarm clock. No snoozing there!

If you could have one superpower, what would it be? To be in more than one place at the same time.

What was your professional aha moment? The first time I executed a flawless breaking news story as a reporter.