Who is Hoda Kotb? Hoda Kotb is a well-known television personality, journalist, and author. She co-hosts the fourth hour of NBC's "Today" show alongside Jenna Bush Hager. Born on August 9, 1964, in Norman, Oklahoma, Hoda has Egyptian roots and spent part of her childhood in Egypt and Nigeria. She graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in broadcast journalism. Hoda's career took off when she joined NBC News in 1998 as a correspondent for "Dateline NBC." She has won numerous awards, including a Daytime Emmy. Beyond her professional life, Hoda is a breast cancer survivor and a mother of two adopted daughters. Her story is one of resilience, talent, and inspiration.
Early Life and Education
Hoda Kotb's journey to becoming a beloved television personality began with a rich and diverse background. Here are some intriguing facts about her early life and education.
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Born in Norman, Oklahoma: Hoda Kotb was born on August 9, 1964, in Norman, Oklahoma. Her parents are of Egyptian descent.
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Raised in Different Places: She spent her childhood in Morgantown, West Virginia, and Alexandria, Virginia, showcasing a diverse upbringing.
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Graduated from Virginia Tech: Hoda earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in broadcast journalism from Virginia Tech in 1986.
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Member of Delta Delta Delta: During her time at Virginia Tech, she was an active member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority.
Career Beginnings
Hoda's career in journalism started with humble beginnings, which paved the way for her future success.
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First Job in Greenville, Mississippi: Her first on-air job was at WXVT in Greenville, Mississippi, where she worked as a news assistant.
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Worked in New Orleans: Hoda spent several years working as a reporter and anchor for WWL-TV in New Orleans, Louisiana.
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Joined NBC News in 1998: In 1998, she joined NBC News as a correspondent for "Dateline NBC."
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Covered Major Events: Throughout her career, she has covered significant events, including Hurricane Katrina and the Iraq War.
Rise to Fame
Hoda's rise to fame is marked by her engaging personality and dedication to her craft.
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Co-Anchor of the Fourth Hour of Today: In 2008, she became the co-anchor of the fourth hour of the "Today" show alongside Kathie Lee Gifford.
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Won a Daytime Emmy Award: In 2010, she and Kathie Lee Gifford won a Daytime Emmy Award for their work on the "Today" show.
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Became Main Co-Anchor of Today: In 2018, she was named the main co-anchor of the "Today" show, alongside Savannah Guthrie.
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First Egyptian-American to Co-Anchor Today: Hoda made history as the first Egyptian-American to co-anchor the "Today" show.
Personal Life
Hoda's personal life is filled with inspiring stories and moments of resilience.
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Breast Cancer Survivor: In 2007, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. She has been cancer-free since then.
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Adopted Two Daughters: Hoda adopted two daughters, Haley Joy in 2017 and Hope Catherine in 2019, bringing immense joy to her life.
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Engaged to Joel Schiffman: In 2019, she announced her engagement to financier Joel Schiffman, whom she had been dating since 2013.
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Published Author: Hoda has written several books, including "Hoda: How I Survived War Zones, Bad Hair, Cancer, and Kathie Lee."
Fun Facts
Hoda's life is filled with interesting tidbits that make her even more relatable and endearing.
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Fluent in Arabic: She is fluent in Arabic, thanks to her Egyptian heritage.
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Loves Music: Hoda is a huge music fan and often shares her favorite songs and artists on social media.
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Ran the New York City Marathon: In 2010, she completed the New York City Marathon, showcasing her determination and athleticism.
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Big Fan of the New Orleans Saints: Having lived in New Orleans, she is an avid supporter of the New Orleans Saints football team.
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Appeared on Law & Order: SVU: Hoda made a guest appearance on the popular TV show "Law & Order: SVU" in 2014.
Awards and Recognition
Hoda's contributions to journalism and television have not gone unnoticed.
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Edward R. Murrow Award: She received the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award for her reporting.
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Gracie Awards: Hoda has won multiple Gracie Awards, which honor women in media.
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Broadcast & Cable Hall of Fame: In 2017, she was inducted into the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame.
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Time 100 Most Influential People: In 2018, she was named one of Time magazine's 100 Most Influential People.
Hoda Kotb: A Remarkable Journey
Hoda Kotb's life is nothing short of inspiring. From her early days as a journalist to becoming a beloved co-anchor on the "Today" show, she has shown resilience and grace. Her battle with breast cancer and subsequent advocacy work highlight her strength and compassion. Hoda's Egyptian heritage and love for her family add depth to her public persona, making her relatable to many. Her best-selling books and motivational speeches continue to inspire countless individuals. Whether she's sharing a laugh with her co-hosts or delivering heartfelt stories, Hoda's authenticity shines through. Her journey reminds us that with determination and a positive outlook, we can overcome any obstacle. Hoda Kotb is not just a television personality; she's a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of perseverance.
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