Shelley Bortz Biography: Renowned Journalist and TV News Reporter
Shelley Bortz is a renowned journalist and TV news reporter known for her work with KDKA-TV and WPXI-TV in Pittsburgh. She has built a diverse career in journalism, working in various cities across the United States.
Early Life and Education
Shelley Bortz was born on February 26 in Pennsylvania, United States. She attended Geibel Catholic High School and later went on to Gannon University, where she graduated in 1997. During her time at Gannon, she received a full scholarship to play basketball.
Upbringing
Shelley Bortz was born and raised in Uniontown, Pennsylvania to her caring and supportive parents, George Bortz III and Christine Andrews.
She has two siblings: an older brother, George Bortz IV, and a sister who competed in the Miss Pennsylvania pageant.
Shelley’s family has been a significant influence in her life, encouraging her to pursue her interests and achieve her goals.
Career
Shelley Bortz has had a diverse and successful career in journalism. She began her career as a weekend anchor/reporter in Scottsbluff, Nebraska.
She then moved to Petersburg, West Virginia, as the morning anchor, followed by the evening anchor.
Shelley also worked as a morning anchor/reporter in Steubenville, Ohio, and as a reporter in Jacksonville, Florida.
She later served as a fill-in anchor/reporter in St. Louis, Missouri, before returning to Pittsburgh to work at WPXI-TV from August 2015 to September 2021. In October 2021, she joined KDKA-TV as a television news reporter.
Early Career
Shelley Bortz began her journalism career in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, where she worked as a weekend anchor/reporter.
This role provided her with valuable experience and helped her build a foundation in broadcast journalism.
Career Progression
After Scottsbluff, Shelley moved to Petersburg, West Virginia, where she served as the morning anchor and later as the evening anchor.
She then worked as a morning anchor/reporter in Steubenville, Ohio, and as a reporter in Jacksonville, Florida. Her next role was in St. Louis, Missouri, where she filled in as an anchor and reporter when needed.
Return to Pittsburgh
In August 2015, Shelley returned to Pittsburgh to join WPXI-TV as a news reporter. She worked there for over six years, becoming a familiar face to viewers in the Pittsburgh area.
Current Role
In October 2021, Shelley joined KDKA-TV in Pittsburgh as a television news reporter. Her work at KDKA-TV has continued to showcase her dedication and talent in journalism.
Notable Stories:
Shelley Bortz has covered a variety of significant stories throughout her career, particularly focusing on crime, justice, and community issues in the Pittsburgh area. Some of her notable reports include:
- SWAT Situation in Monroeville, Pennsylvania: Shelley reported on a high-stakes SWAT operation, providing real-time updates and insights into the unfolding situation.
- Grand Jury Investigation into Jehovah’s Witnesses and Sexual Abuse: She covered a sensitive and impactful investigation, shedding light on the issues and bringing them to public attention.
Additional Roles and Honors
- Internships: Shelley completed internships at WJET in Erie and FOX Sports Pittsburgh before landing her first job.
- Public Address Announcer: She served as the Public Address Announcer for the University of Pittsburgh Women’s Basketball Team for three seasons.
Awards and Honors
Shelley Bortz has received several awards and honors throughout her career, highlighting her contributions to journalism and her community:
- Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame: Shelley was inducted into the Fayette County Sports Hall of Fame in 2020-2021, becoming the first father-daughter duo to be enshrined alongside her father, George Bortz.
- Mrs. Ohio United States: She held the title of Mrs. Ohio United States.
- Mrs. Pennsylvania America: Shelley also held the title of Mrs. Pennsylvania America.
- Distinguished Alumni: She is a Distinguished Alumni of Geibel Catholic High School.
These honors reflect Shelley’s dedication to her profession and her impact on the community.
Financial Status
- Net Worth: Shelley Bortz’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $5 million.
- Salary: She earns an annual salary ranging from $75,000 to $120,500.
Personal Life
Here’s more information about Shelley Bortz’s personal life:
- Age: Shelley Bortz was born born on February 26, 1974, in Uniontown, Pennsylvania making her 51 years old as of 2025.
- Zodiac Sign: Based on her birth date, Shelley’s zodiac sign is Pisces.
- Ethnicity: Shelley is of White ethnicity.
- Nationality: She is American.
- Relationship Status: Shelley is married.
Husband:
Shelley is married to Bob Legashesky. The couple takes great pride in being parents to their daughter, Sydney, and they also have a puppy named Phoenix.
Bob Legashesky
Bob Legashesky is Shelley Bortz’s husband. He is a professional football coach who currently serves as the special teams coordinator at Syracuse University.
Previously, he worked with the National Football League (NFL) as an assistant coach. Bob and Shelley share a strong bond and enjoy spending time together as a family.
Sydney Legashesky
Sydney is Shelley and Bob’s daughter. She was born in 2009 and has grown up in a loving and supportive environment.
Shelley often shares moments of their family life on social media, highlighting the joy and pride she feels as a mother.
Phoenix
The family also has a puppy named Phoenix, who adds to the joy and excitement in their household.
She enjoys spending her spare time with her daughter and their puppy, often engaging in outdoor activities and family outings.
Shelley Bortz Tragedy
Shelley Bortz experienced a tragic event on April 1, 1994. She was involved in a two-car accident while sitting in the backseat of a Chevrolet Cavalier driven by her brother, George Bortz IV.
Her best friend and Gannon University basketball teammate, Kerri Welc, was also in the car, along with Larry Renaldi.
The accident occurred at 11:35 PM, and all four occupants were hospitalized with serious injuries. Tragically, Kerri Welc did not survive the accident.
This incident left a lasting impact on Shelley, who has carried the memory of that night with her throughout her life. Despite this tragedy, she has continued to build a successful career and maintain a positive outlook on life.
Shelley Bortz Weight Loss
Shelley Bortz, a reporter for CBS Pittsburgh (KDKA-TV), has been open about her commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which has contributed to her overall well-being and appearance.
As a former basketball player who earned a scholarship to Gannon University, Shelley has always prioritized fitness. This athletic background laid a foundation for her active lifestyle.
Following a tragic car accident during college that left her with severe injuries, Bortz not only recovered but thrived, using her experience as motivation to maintain a healthy body and mind.
Her commitment to fitness includes engaging in activities like running, biking, and swimming, which she often enjoys with her family
Additionally, her pageant history, including winning the titles of Mrs. Pennsylvania in 2008 and Mrs. Ohio in 2010, further highlights her dedication to physical fitness and personal presentation
This focus on health and fitness has also allowed her to balance a demanding career in journalism while being an active wife and mother. Shelley lives in Pittsburgh with her husband, Bob Ligashesky, a football coach, and their daughter, Sydney
Physical Attributes
- Height: Shelley Bortz stands at approximately 5 feet 8 inches (1.68 meters).
- Distinguishing Features: Shelley has brown hair and hazel eyes.
Social Media Activity
Shelley Bortz is active on social media, where she shares updates about her work and engages with her audience. She uses platforms like Facebook and Twitter to connect with viewers.