Sheinelle Jones

Sheinelle Jones is an American broadcast journalist and television anchor for NBC News. She serves as a co-anchor of the weekend edition of Today and is a regular co-host of the program's popular Third Hour. Recognized for her warm and engaging on-air presence, Jones has become a prominent figure within the network's morning programming, contributing to major news events and human-interest features.

Early life and education

Sheinelle Jones was born on April 19, 1978, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She is the daughter of a Methodist minister and grew up in Wichita, where she attended and graduated from Wichita High School East. Her early interest in journalism was nurtured through participation in school theater and communications programs. Jones pursued higher education at the prestigious Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in journalism, graduating in 2000 and laying the academic foundation for her career in broadcast media.

Career

Jones began her professional career in 2001 as a general assignment reporter and fill-in anchor at KODE-TV in Joplin, Missouri, and later at KSNF. She subsequently worked as a morning anchor and reporter for WISH-TV in Indianapolis, Indiana. Her significant career advancement came in 2005 when she joined KTVT, the CBS owned-and-operated station in Dallas, Texas, where she served as a morning news anchor for eight years. During her tenure in Dallas, she covered major stories including the 2008 Democratic National Convention and the Fort Hood shooting. In 2014, Jones joined NBC News and WCAU, the network's Philadelphia station, as a morning anchor. Her standout work led to her promotion to NBC News national correspondent and weekend anchor for Today in New York City. She now co-anchors Weekend Today alongside Peter Alexander and is a featured co-host on the Today Third Hour with Al Roker, Dylan Dreyer, and Craig Melvin.

Personal life

Jones is married to Uche Ojeh, a surgeon she met while he was a medical resident in Dallas. The couple resides in New York City with their three children. She has been open about the challenges of balancing a demanding national television career with family life. Jones is also a dedicated Christian and has spoken about how her faith guides her personal and professional decisions. Her family roots and experiences growing up in the Midwest remain central to her identity and often inform her relatable on-air demeanor.

Awards and recognition

Throughout her career, Jones has received several accolades for her journalism and community impact. She is a multiple Emmy Award winner, having earned regional Emmy Awards for her anchoring and reporting work in both the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex and Philadelphia markets. In 2021, she was honored with the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Journalist of the Year Award for her exceptional body of work and leadership. Her contributions to morning television have also been recognized by industry publications like Broadcasting & Cable.

Philanthropy and advocacy

Jones is actively involved in philanthropic efforts, particularly those focused on education, health, and empowering young women. She serves on the board of trustees for her alma mater, the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University. She is a strong advocate for mental health awareness and has worked with organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Jones frequently participates in and hosts charity events for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and supports initiatives promoting literacy and journalism education for underrepresented students through partnerships with the NABJ and local community groups in New York City and Philadelphia. Category:1978 births Category:American television anchors Category:American journalists Category:Living people Category:NBC News people Category:People from Philadelphia Category:Northwestern University alumni