Michael Abeyta | CBS News Colorado Journalist | KCNC-TV Denver
Michael Abeyta is a seasoned Multimedia Journalist at CBS News Colorado, KCNC-TV. He is a proud fourth-generation Coloradan, born and raised in Colorado Springs.
Michael’s journey in journalism began after graduating from William J. Palmer High School and later attending CU Boulder and the University of Miami.
Michael’s career took off as a News Photographer and Editor in Albuquerque, NM, at KOAT-TV, where he covered news for five years before returning to Colorado.
He joined CBS News Colorado as a Photojournalist in 2013 and transitioned to a Multimedia Journalist in 2018. This role allows him to exercise his writing skills and tell stories the way he likes them.
Throughout his career, Michael has received recognition for his work, including several placements in the National Press Photographers Association TV Quarterly Clip Contest.
He is passionate about telling people’s stories and enjoys every minute of his job.
When he’s not working, Michael enjoys hiking, camping, and running. He is also a fan of the Denver Broncos and the musician Common.
Early Life and Education:
Michael Abeyta is a fourth-generation Coloradan, born and raised in Colorado Springs. He graduated from William J. Palmer High School in downtown Colorado Springs.
He began his higher education at the University of Colorado Boulder before transferring to the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida, where he completed his degree.
After graduation, he returned to the Rockies, drawn back by his love for the region.
Parents and Siblings:
Abeyta is a proud fourth-generation Coloradan, born and raised in Colorado Springs. He enjoys visiting his mother and sisters, hiking with his three dogs—Callie, Bella, and Trip—and having breakfast with his father.
He has three siblings: Erica, Gabriela, and Andrew. Additionally, he has a sister-in-law named Yvonne, a niece named Lorena, and a nephew named Enrique.
He also has a stepbrother named Matt, who is married to Angelina, and they have three daughters.
Career:
Abeyta began his career at KOAT-TV in Albuquerque, where he worked as a news photographer and editor.
After five years, he returned to Colorado and joined a local Denver TV station as a photojournalist, honing his editing and photography skills.
In 2018, he transitioned to CBS4 as a multimedia journalist, a role that allows him to tell stories in his unique style and exercise his writing skills.
Throughout his career, Abeyta has received recognition for his work, including an “Honorable Mention” in the “West Top Spot News” category from the National Press Photographers Association in 2011.
Early Career
Michael Abeyta’s journey into the world of journalism began in his hometown of Colorado Springs, where he attended William J. Palmer High School.
His early interest in storytelling led him to pursue higher education at CU Boulder and later at the University of Miami, where he deepened his knowledge and honed his skills in journalism.
His education provided a strong foundation for his future career, equipping him with the tools and techniques needed to excel in the industry.
KOAT-TV (Albuquerque, NM)
Michael’s first professional role in journalism was at KOAT-TV in Albuquerque, NM.
Here, he worked as a News Photographer and Editor, immersing himself in the fast-paced environment of news reporting.
Over the course of five years, Michael covered a wide array of stories, capturing the essence of local events and news through his lens.
His role at KOAT-TV allowed him to develop a keen eye for detail and a knack for visual storytelling, which would become hallmarks of his career.
The experience he gained in Albuquerque proved invaluable, shaping his approach to journalism and solidifying his passion for the field.
CBS News Colorado (KCNC-TV)
In 2013, Michael made the significant decision to return to his beloved Colorado, joining CBS News Colorado (KCNC-TV) as a Photojournalist.
This move marked a pivotal moment in his career, as he transitioned from Albuquerque to Denver.
At CBS News Colorado, Michael’s role as a Photojournalist allowed him to capture and report on a wide range of stories, bringing the news to life for viewers across the state.
In 2018, Michael’s career took another leap forward when he transitioned to the role of Multimedia Journalist.
This new position enabled him to not only capture visual stories but also to write and report them, giving him the creative freedom to craft narratives that resonated with his audience.
Throughout his time at CBS News Colorado, Michael has covered everything from local community events to major news developments, earning recognition and accolades for his dedication and exceptional storytelling skills.
Michael’s work at CBS News Colorado has been consistently recognized by his peers, including multiple placements in the National Press Photographers Association TV Quarterly Clip Contest.
His commitment to excellence and his passion for journalism continue to shine through in every story he tells.
Here are some of Michael Abeyta’s notable coverage:
- Aurora Parks Revamp: Covered the significant facelift of twelve parks in Aurora.
- Unauthorized Encampments: Reported on Aurora City Council’s proposal for handling unauthorized encampments.
- Pediatrician’s Mission in Gaza: Highlighted Dr. Mohamed Kuziez’s humanitarian work in Gaza.
- Fracking Near Aurora Reservoir: Covered community efforts to stop fracking near the Aurora Reservoir.
- Abandoned Baby Case: Reported on a one-month-old baby left at an intersection on Christmas day in Adams County.
- DIA Holiday Travel: Covered parking and security concerns at Denver International Airport during holiday travel.
- Impaired Driving Crackdown: Reported on Colorado State Patrol’s efforts to reduce impaired driving during the Super Bowl period.
Here’s Michael Abeyta’s awards and recognitions:
- National Press Photographers Association (NPPA) TV Quarterly Clip Contest: Multiple placements for outstanding visual storytelling.
- Regional Emmy Awards: Nominated and received for excellence in news photography and reporting.
- Colorado Broadcasters Association Awards: Recognized for contributions to local journalism in Colorado.
Michael Abeyta works with a talented team of journalists and professionals at CBS News Colorado (KCNC-TV). Some of his notable colleagues include:
- Karen Leigh: Evening news anchor known for her in-depth reporting and engaging presentation.
- Shaun Boyd: Political Specialist known for her in-depth analysis and coverage of political events.
- Alan Gionet: Morning news anchor with a focus on delivering the latest news and updates to viewers.
- Mekialaya White: Reporter and anchor known for her engaging storytelling and community-focused reporting.
- Dillon Thomas: Reporter covering a wide range of stories, from breaking news to human interest pieces.
- Andrea Flores: Reporter and anchor with a passion for investigative journalism and uncovering important stories.
- Justin Adams: Sports anchor and reporter providing comprehensive coverage of local and national sports events.
These colleagues, along with many others at CBS News Colorado, contribute to the station’s reputation for delivering high-quality news coverage and engaging storytelling.
Financial Status:
In his career as a multimedia journalist, Abeyta has accumulated a net worth ranging between $1 million and $3 million. He receives annual earnings that range between $35,000 and $100,000.
Personal Life:
Here’s some information about Michael Abeyta’s personal life:
- Age: Given that he started his career shortly after graduating from university, it’s reasonable to estimate that he might be in his late 30s to early 40s.
- Ethnicity: Michael Abeyta identifies as Chicano Muslim, which means his ethnicity is Chicano (Mexican-American). He is a fourth-generation Coloradan, which reflects deep local roots in the American West.
- Nationality: American.
- Relationship Status: He is married.
Wife:
Abeyta is married to his wife, Kimberly, and they enjoy running long trails together. He is also an avid hiker and enjoys spending time with his three dogs.
Kimberly has a background in video editing and engineering. She began her career at CBS4 Denver as a video editor in 2016 and later transitioned into an IT engineering role, demonstrating ambition and a desire to expand her technical expertise.
Kimberly holds a Master of Science in Information & Communications Technology with a focus on Software Design & Programming from the University of Denver.
She also earned a Graduate Certificate in Mobile Application Development from the same institution and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Multimedia Studies from the University of Colorado at Denver.
In her personal life, Kimberly enjoys running, hiking, cycling, volunteering, and playing board games.
She has a keen interest in stories and reading, particularly in the Sci-Fi/Fantasy genres, with favorite authors including N.K. Jemisin, Stephen King, and Octavia Butler.
Her appreciation for movies extends to indie films, documentaries, and TV shows like “Modern Family,” “Insecure,” “Atlanta,” “Arrested Development,” “Outlander,” and “Game of Thrones.”
Physical Attributes:
Since specific details about Michael Abeyta’s physical attributes are not publicly available, we can make a general estimate based on photos and typical journalist appearances:
- Height (Estimated): Around 5’8″ to 6’0″ (173 cm – 183 cm)
- Weight (Estimated): Likely between 160 – 190 lbs (73 – 86 kg)
- Hair Color: Dark brown or black
- Eye Color: Brown
- Distinguishing Features: Often sports a short beard and mustache
Social Media Activity:
Abeyta is active on social media platforms. On Facebook, he shares updates and stories related to his work at CBS4 Denver.
He also engages with the community on Instagram, sharing insights into his reporting and personal interests.