WFAA8 reporter Chris Hawes leaves station, takes hospital PR position

By ED BARK
Reporter Chris Hawes, a significant presence on WFAA8's late night newscasts for the past several years, has left the Dallas-based station.

Hawes, who joined WFAA8 in July 2006 as a general assignment reporter, already has a new position as strategic communications manager at Medical City Dallas Hospital. She began her new job on Monday, Dec. 12th.

"The role includes external and internal communications for Medical City Children's Hospital, and a variety of Medical City's specialty centers and programs," Hawes said in a Facebook post. "I have worked in an industry I love for more than 15 years. I am immensely grateful to the colleagues and supervisors who have encouraged, guided and believed in me throughout this journey. I feel blessed to conclude my television career at a station of WFAA's caliber."

Hawes said she is opting, however, "for a new chapter in my life. As a reporter, some of the stories that have touched me most have been those of doctors, nurses, and patients fighting together against incredible odds, and winning. It will be an honor to join that world, and ensure their stories continue to be told."

Hawes joined WFAA8 from a Tampa, FL. station and also has worked for television stations in Cincinnati and her hometown of Mobile, Alabama.

WFAA8 news director Michael Valentine so far has not returned an email asking for comment. But station spokesman Dave Muscari said via email that she left WFAA8 "on very good terms. I think this is a pretty simple lifestyle choice."