SHELLEY IRWIN
Producer/Host, WGVU-1489 AM/88.5-FM
(Grand Rapids, MI)

After working 15 years as a physical therapist, Shelley Irwin decided it was time for a change. As a career changer, Shelley came to Specs Howard School in her late 30s to learn about the broadcast industry and never turned back. Today she’s a successful on-air host at NPR affiliate station WGVU-1480 AM/ 88.5-FM in Grand Rapids. Playing the role of producer, reporter, interviewer, and host, Shelley has recently earned her several awards for her efforts.

“Being on the air was always a dream of mine since I was a kid. I participated in theatre, in oratorical contests and always wanted to be in the spotlight.”

Working in the broadcast industry, Shelley has expanded her horizons tenfold by talking to a variety of people and traveling the world, looking for great stories. Shelley has interviewed celebrities such as anchorman Dan Rather, poet and author Maya Angelou, and Terry Gross, host of NPR’s “Fresh Air”, as well as countless others.

“Every day I'm forced to learn new things, speak with interesting people and share mostly positive stories in my niche. I've been sent to Paris, Frankfurt and rode a Camel in Petra, Jordan – all for the job of radio!”

Shelley’s hard work and drive hasn’t gone unnoticed by the public or her peers. Recently, she has been awarded the Best Radio News/ Documentary Program in the 2007 Michigan Excellence in Journalism Competition. Additionally she has earned her 4th consecutive Gracie Allen award from the American Women in Television and Radio organization.

In addition to her radio career, Shelley is involved with the television branch of WGVU, a PBS affiliate.

“I also host a couple of community affairs programs on the PBS side, ‘Community Connection’ and ‘Ask the Expert.’ Six months out of the year, I do features for the PBS show ‘Kalamazoo Lively Arts,’ where the host spotlights artists and their wares, and participates. I've eaten fire, flown on the set of Peter Pan and served as a magician's assistant – all for the sake of the video camera!”

Shelley Irwin is an example of a person who has gone above and beyond the call of duty to achieve her dreams. Her dedication to excel in has created a successful career in radio and television. Shelley credits her success to her personal efforts and urges all students to follow-up their dreams with hard work.

“Get to class early, be prepared, work hard, and put in 110%. Get to know your instructors, even if means asking one question every other class period. It’s important to find your niche, stand out in the crowd, and learn to appreciate the journey.”

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