Comprehensive Biography of Hazel Sanchez: Renowned Journalist and News Anchor
Hazel Sanchez is a distinguished Filipino-American journalist and news anchor renowned for her impactful reporting and dedication to broadcast journalism.
She began her career in Wisconsin and eventually moved to New York, where she has become a familiar face on PIX11 as the morning news anchor.
Hazel’s journey includes a degree in Broadcast Journalism and Electronic Communications from Marquette University and a career spanning over two decades.
Throughout her career, she has earned several prestigious awards for her exceptional work.
Hazel is not only committed to her profession but also actively engages in community and health-related initiatives.
Hazel is married and a proud mother of two daughters. She balances a thriving professional life with a fulfilling personal life.
Early Life and Education
Hazel Sanchez was born on March 14, 1973, in Bourbonnais, Illinois, to Manuel M. Sanchez and Carlota R. Sanchez.
Her father, Dr. Manuel Sanchez, is a retired anesthesiologist, and her mother, Carlota Sanchez, worked as a nurse.
Hazel’s parents emigrated from the Philippines and completed their education there before moving to the United States.
They initially left behind Hazel’s two older sisters when they moved to the U.S., but later brought the entire family together when they were able to save enough money.
Hazel grew up in a supportive environment that played a significant role in her personal and professional success.
She attended Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism and Electronic Communications.
Career
Hazel Sanchez is currently a morning news anchor for PIX11 News in New York, where she anchors the weekday morning show from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
She joined PIX11 in 2021, after a successful 21-year tenure as a general assignment reporter and fill-in anchor at WCBS/CBS New York.
Prior to that, she served as a weekend anchor at WBAY-TV in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and worked as a news cut-in anchor and assistant producer at WISN-TV in Milwaukee.
Throughout her career, Sanchez has received multiple accolades, including New York Emmy and Midwest Emmy awards.
She has also been recognized by the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association and received the CINE Golden Eagle Award.
In 2009, she was named one of the “Top 100 Most Influential Filipinas in the U.S.” by the Filipina Women’s Network.
In 2017 and 2020, she was honored by the Outstanding Filipinos in America (TOFA) as one of the top influential Filipino Americans.
Early Career
Hazel Sanchez began her journalism journey in Wisconsin. She started as a weekend anchor and assignment reporter at WBAY-TV in Green Bay.
Her early experiences in the newsroom allowed her to build a solid foundation in journalism and develop her reporting skills.
WISN-TV, Milwaukee
After her time at WBAY-TV, Hazel moved to WISN-TV in Milwaukee. Here, she worked as a news cut-in anchor and assistant producer, gaining further experience in broadcast journalism and refining her abilities as a reporter and anchor.
WCBS/CBS New York
In June 2000, Hazel made a significant career move to New York City, joining WCBS/CBS New York as a general assignment reporter and fill-in anchor.
During her tenure at WCBS, Hazel covered a wide range of stories, from breaking news to in-depth features.
She reported on some of the most critical events in the city, earning her recognition and respect in the journalism community.
PIX11
In September 2021, Hazel joined PIX11 as the morning news anchor. She currently anchors the morning news from 6 to 10 AM.
At PIX11, Hazel continues to deliver important news stories to her audience, maintaining her reputation as a trusted and reliable news anchor.
Notable Reports and Achievements
Hazel Sanchez has covered a wide range of significant events and stories throughout her career, earning her numerous awards and recognitions:
- COVID-19 Pandemic Coverage: Hazel provided extensive coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic, offering crucial information and updates to the public during a challenging time.
- 2017 Las Vegas Shooting Massacre: She reported on the tragic Las Vegas shooting, delivering timely and accurate news to viewers.
- Christopher Dorner Manhunt: Hazel covered the intense manhunt for Christopher Dorner, providing continuous updates and insights.
- Funerals of President Ronald Reagan and Michael Jackson: She reported on the high-profile funerals, offering comprehensive coverage of these significant events.
Awards and Recognitions
Hazel Sanchez has received several prestigious awards for her exceptional work in journalism:
- Midwest Emmy Award: Recognizing her outstanding contributions to broadcast journalism.
- Wisconsin Broadcast Association Award: Honoring her excellence in reporting.
- CINE Golden Eagle Award: Awarded for her exceptional documentary and news reporting.
- Top 100 Most Influential Filipinas in the United States: Named by the Filipina Women’s Network in 2009 and again in 2020.
- Outstanding Filipinos in America Award (TOFA): Recognized in 2017 and 2020 for her influence and contributions to the Filipino-American community.
Hazel Sanchez’s career is marked by her dedication to delivering accurate and comprehensive news coverage, making her a respected and influential figure in the field of broadcast journalism.
Financial Status
Hazel Sanchez’s estimated net worth is between $1 million and $5 million, primarily earned through her long-standing career in broadcast journalism.
Her annual salary ranges between $56,500 and $120,000, depending on her contractual terms and other engagements.
Personal Life
Hazel Sanchez’s Personal Life
- Age: Hazel Sanchez was born on March 14, 1973, making her 51 years old as of March 2024.
- Zodiac Sign: Hazel’s zodiac sign is Pisces.
- Ethnicity: Hazel is of Filipino-American ethnicity.
- Nationality: She holds American nationality.
- Relationship Status: Hazel Sanchez is married.
Husband:
Hazel Sanchez is married to Peter Joseph Rapciewicz, who works as an Assistant Vice President at the American International Group (AIG).
Peter is an alum of Susquehanna University in Pennsylvania. The couple exchanged vows on October 8, 2011, at the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church in New York.
Kids
Hazel and Peter have two daughters:
- Avery Rapciewicz, born in 2014.
- Kenzie Rapciewicz, born in 2016.
Hazel often shares moments from her family life on social media, giving a glimpse into their close-knit family.
Physical Attributes
- Height: Hazel Sanchez stands at approximately 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) tall.
- Weight: Hazel’s weight is estimated to be around 150 to 170 pounds (68 to 77 kg) based on her height and build.
- Distinguishing Features: Hazel has brown hair and brown eyes.
Social Media Presence
Hazel is active on social media platforms, where she engages with her audience and shares updates about her personal and professional life.
Her official Instagram handle is @hsancheztv, and she is also active on Twitter, using the handle @HSanchezTV.