In the world of Colorado journalism, few names shine as brightly as Kim Christiansen. As a veteran anchor at 9NEWS, Christiansen has become a household name, delivering news with integrity and compassion for decades. This article delves into the life, career, and impact of this remarkable journalist, exploring how a small-town girl from Arvada became one of the most trusted voices in Colorado media.
Early Life and Roots: The Making of a Journalist
Kim Christiansen’s story begins in the suburbs of Denver, where she was born and raised in Arvada, Colorado. Growing up in this close-knit community, Christiansen developed a deep connection to her home state – a connection that would later fuel her passion for telling Colorado’s stories.
From an early age, Christiansen showed a keen interest in current events and communication. Her parents, recognizing this spark, encouraged her curiosity and supported her ambitions. It was during these formative years that the seeds of her future career were planted.
“I’ve always been curious about the world around me,” Christiansen once said in an interview. “Growing up in Arvada, I realized that every person has a story worth telling.”
This early fascination with storytelling would set the stage for her future in journalism.
Education: Laying the Groundwork for Success
Christiansen’s journey to becoming a top-tier journalist began at the University of Colorado at Boulder. Here, she pursued a degree in Journalism, immersing herself in the fundamentals of reporting, writing, and broadcasting.
During her time at CU Boulder, Christiansen distinguished herself as a dedicated and talented student. She took advantage of every opportunity to gain hands-on experience, participating in student media projects and internships that would prove invaluable in her future career.
Key Experiences at CU Boulder:
- Worked on the student newspaper
- Participated in campus radio broadcasts
- Completed internships with local media outlets
These experiences not only honed her skills but also confirmed her passion for journalism. Christiansen graduated with honors, ready to take on the world of news broadcasting.
The Rise of a News Icon: From Intern to Anchor
Kim Christiansen’s career at 9NEWS is a testament to her talent, dedication, and perseverance. Her journey with the station began humbly, as an intern – a role that would prove to be the first step in a remarkable career trajectory.
Career Progression at 9NEWS:
- Intern: Gained first-hand experience in newsroom operations
- Associate Producer: Honed skills in news production and storytelling
- General Assignment Reporter: Covered a wide range of stories across Colorado
- Anchor: Became the trusted face of 9NEWS broadcasts
Christiansen’s rise through the ranks was marked by her exceptional work ethic and her ability to connect with viewers. Her reporting style, characterized by empathy and depth, quickly set her apart in the competitive world of broadcast journalism.
Behind the Anchor Desk: A Voice Colorado Trusts
As an anchor at 9NEWS, Kim Christiansen has become known for her signature reporting style – a blend of professionalism, compassion, and authenticity. Her ability to deliver both hard-hitting news and human interest stories with equal skill has endeared her to viewers across the state.
Notable Stories and Coverage:
- In-depth reporting on Colorado’s changing climate
- Coverage of major political events, including presidential visits to the state
- Heartwarming features on local heroes and community initiatives
Christiansen’s work has not gone unnoticed by her peers in the industry. She has been the recipient of multiple Heartland Regional Emmy Awards for spot news, news writing, and reporting – a testament to her excellence in journalism.
The Miss Colorado Chapter: More Than Just a Crown
While many know Kim Christiansen as a journalist, her time as Miss Colorado played a significant role in shaping her career and public persona. Winning the title was more than just a beauty pageant victory – it was a platform that allowed Christiansen to develop her public speaking skills and engage with communities across Colorado.
Impact of the Miss Colorado Experience:
- Enhanced public speaking abilities
- Developed a deeper connection with Colorado communities
- Used the platform to advocate for causes close to her heart
This experience proved invaluable in her journalism career, giving her the confidence and poise that would later become hallmarks of her on-air presence.
Family Life: Balancing Act Extraordinaire
Behind the scenes, Kim Christiansen is a devoted wife and mother, masterfully balancing her high-profile career with her family life. She is married to Greg Feith, an Aviation Safety Analyst at NBC News, creating a power couple in the world of broadcast journalism.
The Christiansen-Feith Family:
- Husband: Greg Feith
- Son: Tanner
Christiansen often speaks about the challenges and rewards of juggling her roles as a mother, wife, and public figure. Her ability to maintain this balance while excelling in her career has made her a role model for many aspiring journalists and working parents.
“Family is my anchor,” Christiansen has said. “It keeps me grounded and reminds me of what’s truly important in life.”
Beyond the Newsroom: A Champion for the Community
Kim Christiansen’s impact extends far beyond her work at 9NEWS. She is deeply involved in community initiatives and charitable work, using her platform to make a difference in the lives of Coloradans.
Community Involvement:
| Cause | Role | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Breast Cancer Awareness | Advocate | Spearheads the Buddy Check9 program |
| Denver Hospice | Supporter | Raises awareness and funds for end-of-life care |
| Journalism Education | Mentor | Guides aspiring journalists at local schools |
Christiansen’s work with the Buddy Check9 program is particularly noteworthy. Inspired by her sister Keri Christiansen’s battle with breast cancer, Kim has become a passionate advocate for breast cancer awareness and early detection.
The Woman Behind the Camera: Interests and Aspirations
While Kim Christiansen is best known for her work in front of the camera, her life outside of journalism is equally fascinating. She maintains an active lifestyle, embracing Colorado’s outdoor culture and advocating for health and wellness.
Kim’s Interests and Hobbies:
- Hiking in Colorado’s beautiful mountains
- Practicing yoga for physical and mental well-being
- Reading, with a particular interest in non-fiction and biographies
- Cooking and exploring new cuisines
Christiansen’s commitment to health and fitness is not just personal – it’s a message she often shares with her viewers, encouraging them to lead active, healthy lives.
Kim Christiansen’s Legacy and Future
As Kim Christiansen continues to shape Colorado’s media landscape, her legacy is already being felt. She has become more than just a news anchor – she’s a trusted voice, a community leader, and an inspiration to aspiring journalists across the state.
Christiansen’s Impact on Colorado Journalism:
- Raised the bar for empathetic, in-depth reporting
- Mentored countless young journalists
- Used her platform to advocate for important causes
Looking to the future, Christiansen shows no signs of slowing down. She continues to evolve as a journalist, embracing new technologies and storytelling methods to better serve her audience.
Fast Facts and Trivia
To round out our profile of Kim Christiansen, here are some quick facts and figures:
- Age: Born in the early 1960s (exact date not publicly disclosed)
- Height: Approximately 5’7″ (170 cm)
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of Colorado at Boulder
- Career Start: Began at 9NEWS as an intern in the early 1980s
- Awards: Multiple Heartland Regional Emmy Awards
- Salary: Estimated between $70,000 and $125,000 annually
- Net Worth: Estimated between $1 Million to $5 Million
- Social Media: Active on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook with a combined following of over 50,000
FAQs
Who is Kim Christiansen?
Kim Christiansen is an American journalist and news anchor, best known for her work at 9News, a local NBC-affiliated station in Denver, Colorado. She has been a prominent face on the station for many years, becoming a trusted figure in the Denver media scene.
How old is Kim Christiansen?
As of Kim Christiansen’s exact age is not widely publicized, but she was born and raised in Colorado. For more accurate information, check official sources or recent interviews.
What is Kim Christiansen’s educational background?
Kim Christiansen graduated from the University of Colorado Boulder, where she earned a degree in journalism and mass communication. Her education laid the foundation for her successful career in broadcasting.
Is Kim Christiansen married, and does she have children?
Yes, Kim Christiansen is married to Greg Feith, a former National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigator and aviation safety expert. The couple has one son together, named Tanner.
What is Kim Christiansen’s role at 9News?
Kim Christiansen has worked in various roles at 9News over the years, including reporting and anchoring. She is currently a lead news anchor, and her decades-long career at the station has made her a beloved figure in Denver journalism.
Conclusion: Kim Christiansen’s Enduring Influence
From her early days as an intern to her current status as one of Colorado’s most respected journalists, Kim Christiansen’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and genuine connection with one’s community. Her impact on Colorado journalism extends beyond her nightly broadcasts, touching lives through her advocacy work and mentorship of the next generation of reporters.
As she continues to grace the screens of 9NEWS, Kim Christiansen remains a beacon of journalistic integrity and community engagement. Her story is not just one of personal success, but of a lifelong commitment to serving and informing the people of Colorado. In an era of rapidly changing media landscapes, Christiansen stands as a reminder of the enduring value of trustworthy, compassionate journalism.
