In a city fueled by resilience, diversity, and opportunity, journalism plays a vital role in shaping conversations and strengthening communities. For Brittaney Wilmore, that calling began at Houston City College (HCC), where a scholarship, strong mentorship, and hands-on newsroom experience helped transform her ambition into a thriving career in broadcast journalism.

Today, Wilmore serves as Director of Community Engagement at KTRK-TV (ABC13 Houston) — a leadership role that connects one of Houston’s most trusted news stations directly with the people it serves. Her journey, however, started years earlier inside the classrooms and studios of Houston City College.

A Scholarship That Changed Everything

A graduate of Cinco Ranch High School in Katy, Wilmore enrolled at HCC with the support of the David and Jean Wiley Scholarship through the HCC Foundation. The scholarship covered tuition and books, allowing her to focus fully on her education and future without the weight of student debt.

She graduated in 2011 with an Associate of Arts in Communications — but the degree was only part of the story.

Her defining experience came at HCC-TV, the college’s on-campus television station at 3100 Main Street. There, she immersed herself in every aspect of production: learning Final Cut Pro and Premiere, producing programs, booking interviews, and meeting lawmakers and community leaders.

“HCC-TV has my heart,” Wilmore has shared. “Some of my fondest memories are learning the craft and understanding how the television business works.”

Under faculty with real newsroom experience, she gained practical skills and professional confidence — tools that would soon open doors across Houston’s competitive media landscape. 

Breaking Into Houston’s Newsrooms

After leaving HCC debt-free, Wilmore completed her bachelor’s degree at the University of Houston. She then launched her professional career as a line producer for the morning show at KHOU, one of Houston’s leading television stations.

The fast-paced role sharpened her editorial judgment and newsroom instincts. A few years later, she joined ABC13 as a digital content producer, managing online publishing and breaking news alerts in an era when immediacy and accuracy matter more than ever.

Now, as Director of Community Engagement at ABC13, Wilmore stands at the intersection of journalism and civic connection. She coordinates outreach initiatives, organizes public appearances, and helps shape community-centered storytelling that reflects Houston’s vibrant and diverse neighborhoods. 

Paying It Forward

Wilmore remembers the early days — sending out resumes, crafting cover letters, and hoping someone would take a chance on her work. That memory fuels her commitment to mentoring the next generation.

“When I meet students trying to break into the industry, I want to give them the same care and advice that was shown to me,” she has said.

Her message to donors who support the HCC Foundation is equally heartfelt: investing in students creates lasting impact. Scholarships don’t just remove financial barriers — they unlock potential and confidence.

And her advice to aspiring journalists is refreshingly simple:
Stay connected to mentors. Embrace new tools. Say “yes” to opportunities that stretch your comfort zone. 

A Launchpad for Houston’s Future

For Houston students dreaming of careers in media, Wilmore’s story is proof that world-class preparation can begin right here at home. Houston City College continues to serve as a powerful launchpad for first-generation students, career changers, and aspiring storytellers eager to make their mark.

In a rapidly evolving media environment, Houston needs ethical, skilled, and community-rooted journalists more than ever. Through scholarships, mentorship, and hands-on training, HCC is helping cultivate that next generation of leaders.

Brittaney Wilmore’s journey reminds us that when Houston invests in education, the entire city benefits.

To start your academic journey, visit hccs.edu/apply.

To support student scholarships, learn more at hccs.edu/foundation.

Because sometimes, the path to the newsroom begins in a classroom — and sometimes, that classroom is right here in Houston.