Raised in Western Illinois, a passion for journalism developed early while delivering Quincy Herald-Whig newspapers by bicycle alongside my two brothers. That experience fostered an early appreciation for sharing news and connecting with the community. While attending Quincy Notre Dame High School, I was a three sport athlete playing baseball, basketball, and soccer. After graduation, I stayed home to play baseball on scholarship at John Wood Community College. After two years of Trailblazer baseball, I moved to Normal, IL attending Illinois State University. I fell in love with storytelling while reporting for TV-10 News and participating in Student Television Workshops. In the Spring of 2009, I earned a degree in Broadcast Journalism. Professional experience included one year as a photographer at WGEM. Followed by a year working at WICD in Champaign prior to pursuing advanced education. I moved to Chicago and enrolled at DePaul University. In the summer of 2013, I received a master’s degree in Digital Media and Cinema Studies. The hands-on experience working on film sets helped refine my craft as a videographer.
I spent the next two years in Milwaukee working at Fox 6 News where I enjoyed filming University of Wisconsin Badger football games. Now a photographer / producer at WGN in Chicago, my work reflects more than 15 years of experience. A commitment to crafting compelling, impactful stories has been recognized with 18 Emmy Awards, including two for Best Photography, along with two Edward R. Murrow Awards, the Illinois Broadcasters Association Silver Dome Award, the Herman Kogan Media Award, and a first-place feature honor from the NPPA. Outside the newsroom, I’m an active member of Chicago’s running community and have completed five marathons. But what drives me the most is the challenge itself. I enjoy setting goals, pushing past limits, and discovering what I’m capable of. You can read more about my running journey here.
✉️ kevindoellman@gmail.com
