Debra Wynn

(KXAN) - What is your position?
Morning traffic reporter

When did you start at KXAN?
I joined the Austin News Today morning news team in May of 2009

How did you get started in TV?
I started my TV news career at the NBC affiliate in Detroit, MI. I learned of a weekend traffic reporting position from a friend who worked at the station as a technical director. After several rounds of auditions and interviews, I was selected for the position and eventually moved to the Monday-Friday schedule.

What is your most memorable story?
While reporting traffic one busy morning, our cameras captured images of a dog trapped on a median between three busy expressways. Throughout the rush, countless cars zipped by; none of them bothering to stop. At the end of the newscast, I called the Humane Society and drove to the median hoping to help. Upon my arrival, the dog, a happy little yellow lab, was playing with trash left in the median – hesitant to approach any humans. After approximately an hour of coaxing (and about a dozen doggie treats which I keep stashed in my car for such an occasion) I finally earned the dog’s trust. Around the same time, the Humane Society driver arrived. We packed the puppy up and brought her in for a checkup. Fortunately, the dog was not injured, and would be eligible for adoption.

The following week, I arranged to have the little lab brought in for our Friday morning pet segment. We showed video of the animal’s ordeal stuck on the median and then walked her onto the set. A viewer who was touched by the story adopted the dog later that same day and named her Hope.

Where did you go to college?
I graduated with a Bachelor of Communication Arts degree from Oakland University in Rochester, MI.

Where is your hometown?
I was raised in the Detroit suburb of West Bloomfield, MI.

What is your favorite thing about Austin?
My favorite part of living in Austin is the sheer number of options it provides for spending time outside. Austin’s proximity to the Texas Hill Country is also a terrific asset; driving west takes you past Lake Travis, unbeatable views and countless great restaurants.

What is your guilty pleasure?
Shoes… running shoes.
I happily sacrifice fashion for the peace provided by a long run.

How would you like to make a difference?
I am an animal fanatic who finds it extremely rewarding to help animals in need. Dogs are my favorites and I frequently rescue foster (and adopt)!

Who is your favorite musician/band?
I enjoy many music genres but always come back to Stevie Nicks as a favorite.

What is your favorite movie?
Jaws. The two-note theme still sends shivers down my spine!

What is your favorite TV show?
At the risk of sounding predictable, I love news – especially stories involving politics.

What is your favorite food?
Yes… (all)