Biography of Erica Francis – Accomplished Journalist and News Anchor at FOX 2 Detroit
Erica Francis is an accomplished journalist and news anchor currently working at WKRN News 2 in Nashville, Tennessee, and WJBK-TV FOX 2 in Detroit, Michigan.
Throughout her career, Erica has covered a wide range of stories, including significant events such as the 2016 Republican National Convention in Cleveland and reporting live from her alma mater after a tragic incident.
Her commitment to journalism and her ability to deliver stories with a glimmer of hope and positivity have earned her several awards, including a Mark of Excellence Award from the Society of Professional Journalists and a Michigan Association of Broadcasters award. She was also named Best TV Personality by the Holland Sentinel.
Beyond her journalism career, Erica is actively involved in the community. She enjoys singing, traveling, golfing, listening to country music, and watching football in her spare time.
Erica’s commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond her professional life, as she participates in various community events and initiatives.
Erica Francis continues to inspire and engage viewers with her impactful reporting and dedication to the journalism profession. Her journey is a testament to her hard work, resilience, and commitment to telling stories that matter.
Early Life and Education
Erica Francis was born on October 20, 1992, in Holland, Michigan. She grew up in a supportive family environment, with her mother Bernadene Francis playing a significant role in her upbringing.
Erica’s father’s name has not been publicly disclosed, and there is no information available about any siblings. Notably, Erica Francis does not have a publicly known sister.
While there has been some confusion about her being related to Jacqueline Francis, another media personality in Detroit, they are not related.
Education
Erica attended West Ottawa High School before pursuing higher education at Central Michigan University, where she earned a Bachelor of Applied Arts degree in Broadcast Journalism.
She further expanded her knowledge by spending a semester studying journalism and film at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore.
Career
Erica’s journey in journalism began almost immediately after graduation. She first worked as a general assignment reporter at FOX 17 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where she later became a morning and midday anchor.
During her time there, she covered significant events like the 2016 Republican National Convention and various human-interest stories.
In 2019, she joined WKRN-TV in Nashville, Tennessee, where she co-anchored the 4:00 p.m. newscast and focused on stories related to the city’s rapid growth.
Her work there earned her several accolades, including a Michigan Association of Broadcasters Award, a Mark of Excellence Award from the Society of Professional Journalists, and multiple Emmy nominations.
In July 2022, Erica returned to FOX 2 Detroit, where she had once interned. She currently anchors the 4:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. newscasts and contributes as a reporter for FOX 2 News Mornings.
Erica is known for her engaging storytelling, commitment to journalistic integrity, and dedication to giving a voice to underrepresented communities.
Early Career
Erica Francis began her journalism career while still in college. She interned at the City of Holland TV in 2012, where she gained practical experience and honed her reporting skills. This early exposure to the industry laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors.
WKRN News 2 in Nashville
Erica currently works as a news anchor at WKRN News 2 in Nashville, Tennessee. She anchors the 4 p.m. news, where she has become a familiar face to viewers in the area. Her engaging style and commitment to delivering accurate and timely news have earned her a loyal following.
WJBK-TV FOX 2 in Detroit
In addition to her role at WKRN News 2, Erica also serves as a news anchor/reporter at WJBK-TV FOX 2 in Detroit, Michigan.
This dual role showcases her versatility and dedication to her profession, as she seamlessly balances responsibilities at two major news stations.
Notable Stories
Erica Francis has covered a wide range of impactful stories throughout her career. Here are some notable reports:
- 2016 Republican National Convention: Erica reported live from Cleveland, providing comprehensive coverage of the event and offering insights into the political atmosphere.
- Tragic Incident at Alma Mater: She reported live from Central Michigan University after a tragic incident, handling the situation with sensitivity and professionalism.
- Wheelchair Dancing in Bloomfield Hills: Erica highlighted the growing popularity of wheelchair dancing, featuring the first Paralympic ballroom dance competition in the U.S.
- New Hope Center for Grief Support: She covered the story of the New Hope Center for Grief Support, focusing on how the center helps individuals find their “superpowers” to cope with loss.
- Catholic Central’s New STEM Center: Erica reported on the opening of a new $35 million STEM center at Catholic Central High School in Novi, Michigan.
- Ronaldo Candido Academy: She covered the story of the Ronaldo Candido Academy, which teaches Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to students.
- Detroit Prowl Women’s Tackle Football Team: Erica reported on the team’s journey to securing the AWFL championship, showcasing their grit and determination.
Awards and Recognitions
Erica Francis has received several awards and recognitions throughout her career, highlighting her excellence in journalism:
- Michigan Association of Broadcasters Award: Erica was honored with this award for her outstanding contributions to the field of broadcasting in Michigan.
- Mark of Excellence Award: Presented by the Society of Professional Journalists, this award recognizes Erica’s exceptional reporting and writing skills.
- Regional Emmy Awards: Erica has won two regional Emmy Awards for her writing and reporting, showcasing her talent and dedication to delivering high-quality news coverage.
- Edward R. Murrow Award: While working at WKRN News 2 in Nashville, Erica received this prestigious award for co-anchoring breaking news coverage.
- Best TV Personality: Named by the Holland Sentinel, this award acknowledges Erica’s engaging presence on screen and her ability to connect with viewers.
- 10 Within 10 Recognition: Erica was recognized by Central Michigan University for her achievements within ten years of graduation.
These awards reflect Erica’s commitment to journalism and her ability to make a positive impact through her reporting.
Erica Francis and Jacqueline Francis
No, Erica Francis and Jacqueline Francis are not related. They share the same last name, but there is no familial connection between them.
Both Erica and Jacqueline have made significant contributions to journalism in their respective roles, but their similarities end there.
Jacqueline Francis
Jacqueline Francis is an award-winning journalist who joined WDIV Local 4 in Detroit, Michigan, in September 2022. Before that, she reported for the NBC affiliate in West Michigan.
Jacqueline graduated from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, with a bachelor’s degree in Convergence Journalism with a concentration in Political Science.
She won a regional Edward R. Murrow Award and received two Emmy nominations for her breaking news coverage of the May 2020 riot in downtown Grand Rapids. When she’s not working, Jacqueline enjoys ski trips up north and beach days with her dog, Ace.
Financial Status
As of 2024, Erica Francis has an estimated net worth of between $1 million and $5 million, reflecting her successful career in broadcast journalism.
Her annual salary at FOX 2 Detroit is estimated to be between $65,500 and $150,500.
This estimate takes into account her roles at both WKRN News 2 and WJBK-TV FOX 2. Erica’s primary source of income is her career as a journalist and news anchor.
Personal Life of Erica Francis
- Age: Erica Francis is 31 years old as of 2023. She was born on October 20, 1992.
- Zodiac Sign: Her zodiac sign is Libra.
- Ethnicity: Erica is of Caucasian ethnicity.
- Nationality: She is American by birth.
- Relationship Status: Erica is currently single. She has not revealed any information about past relationships or a spouse.
Husband:
Erica is currently not married and has kept her romantic life private. She appears to be focused on her career and community involvement, enjoying activities like traveling, golfing, listening to country music, and participating in local events.
Physical Description of Erica Francis
- Height: Erica Francis stands at approximately 5 feet 4 inches (1.63 meters).
- Weight: She weighs around 117 lbs (53 kg).
- Distinguishing Features: Erica has brown hair and blue eyes.
Erica Francis is active on social media. She maintains a presence on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. She uses these platforms to share updates about her career, personal life, and engage with her audience.