Vanessa Kjeldsen

Vanessa is the Wisconsin State Capitol Bureau Chief for WMTV 15, WEAU 13, WSAW 7, WBAY 2 and KBJR 6. As the Statewide Chief Political Reporter, Vanessa’s mission is to provide accountability for those in power and context for those impacted. She is the recipient of The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Student Achievement Tom Skilling Award, and has been nominated for a Chicago/Midwest Emmy for her previous team coverage at WMTV 15.

Vanessa is a graduate of Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism. During her time as an anchor, producer and reporter for Northwestern News Network, she was also nominated for five Student Chicago/Midwest Emmys, including Best Talent. Vanessa's collegiate investigative police reporting also earned the Society of Professional Journalists' Mark of Excellence. Previously, she reported for the Washington Post and United Press International.

Born and raised outside of Austin, Texas, Vanessa loves finally getting to experience seasons, but she’s still adapting to Wisconsin winters. When she’s not at the Capitol, Vanessa can be found cooking up a new recipe, West Coast Swing dancing or searching for the best ice cream in town.