Tanja Babich is a well-recognized face in the world of journalism. She has carved a niche for herself as an Emmy Award-winning news anchor at ABC 7 Chicago, where she continues to captivate audiences with her professionalism and charm. With a career spanning over a decade, Tanja has covered some of the most important stories and events, gaining accolades and recognition in the industry.
In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into Tanja’s life—her background, career journey, personal life, and how she has become a prominent figure at ABC 7 Chicago.
Early Life and Background
Birthplace and Childhood Tanja Babich was born in Toronto, Canada, to parents of Serbian and Chilean descent. Growing up in a diverse cultural environment, she developed an appreciation for both the Serbian and Latin American cultures. This unique blend of heritage has shaped her perspective and approach to storytelling, making her a versatile and insightful journalist.
Age and Birthday
Tanja Babich was born on June 29, 1980, which makes her 44 years old as of 2024. Despite her years of experience, Tanja continues to bring a fresh, energetic approach to her work.
Educational Background
Tanja’s educational journey is as impressive as her professional career. She holds both an undergraduate and a graduate degree, showing a deep commitment to her field.
High School Education
Tanja completed her high school education in Toronto, where she was already showing signs of leadership. She was involved in various extracurricular activities, including student government, and demonstrated a strong interest in media and journalism.
College Education
Tanja Babich attended Cornell University, one of the most prestigious Ivy League schools in the United States. There, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Government, which provided her with a strong foundation in critical thinking, policy, and public affairs. This background has helped her effectively communicate and report on complex political issues.
Postgraduate Studies
Not stopping there, Tanja pursued a Master’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Public Communications, a renowned institution for media professionals. Her academic credentials are a testament to her dedication to mastering the art of journalism. Learn More….
Professional Career
Tanja’s career is a testament to hard work, resilience, and a passion for storytelling. Over the years, she has earned a reputation as a reliable and respected news anchor.
Early Career
Tanja began her career at News Channel 9 in Syracuse, where she gained valuable experience as a general assignment reporter. Covering everything from local politics to breaking news, she honed her skills in live reporting and investigative journalism. This foundational experience set the stage for her future success.
Joining ABC 7 Chicago
In 2014, Tanja joined ABC 7 Chicago, a leading news station in the Midwest. She started as a weekend morning anchor, quickly proving her ability to connect with viewers. By 2016, she was promoted to the weekday morning newscast, anchoring from 4:30 to 7:00 a.m. Her engaging personality and journalistic integrity made her a viewer favorite, and she soon became the face of the station’s morning news.
Significant Reporting Moments
Tanja has covered numerous significant stories, both local and international, during her tenure at ABC 7 Chicago. Some of the highlights include:
- Presidential Elections: Tanja provided comprehensive coverage of the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election, offering insightful analysis and live reporting.
- Chicago’s Gun Violence Crisis: She has reported extensively on the ongoing issue of gun violence in Chicago, interviewing local leaders and community activists to shed light on this critical problem.
- COVID-19 Pandemic: Tanja was on the front lines during the pandemic, delivering crucial information to viewers as the situation unfolded.
Her dedication to delivering accurate, timely news has earned her several accolades, including an Emmy Award for her outstanding contributions to journalism. Learn More..
Personal Life
Family and Ethnic Background
Tanja Babich’s multicultural heritage plays a significant role in her identity. With a Serbian father and a Chilean mother, she embraces both cultures and often speaks about the importance of diversity in her life. She is fluent in both Spanish and Serbian, which adds another layer of depth to her reporting, especially when covering international news.
Parents and Siblings
While Tanja keeps most of her personal life private, it is known that she comes from a supportive and close-knit family. Her parents have played a vital role in shaping her career and values. Although little is public about her siblings, Tanja often speaks about the influence her family had on her decision to pursue journalism.
Marriage and Husband
Tanja is married to her husband, Paul Durbin, a U.S. Army veteran. They share a beautiful life together, raising their three daughters: Josephine, Alexa, and Adriana. Tanja frequently shares moments from her family life on social media, giving viewers a glimpse into her personal world. Her relationship with Paul and their children is one of mutual respect, love, and support.
Balancing Work and Family
Like many working mothers, Tanja has spoken openly about the challenges of balancing a demanding career with raising a family. She often credits her husband for being a supportive partner who helps her maintain this balance. Learn More..
Tanja Babich’s Salary and Net Worth
Tanja Babich’s position as a lead news anchor at one of Chicago’s top news stations has provided her with a lucrative career.
Current Salary at ABC 7 Chicago
While exact figures may vary, it is estimated that Tanja earns between $80,000 and $100,000 annually, which is consistent with salaries for top-tier news anchors in major media markets like Chicago.
Net Worth
Tanja Babich’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million. Her income comes not only from her salary at ABC 7 but also from speaking engagements, investments, and various other ventures.
Nationality and Ethnic Background
Tanja’s Nationality
Tanja Babich holds dual citizenship in Canada and the United States. Her Canadian roots, coupled with her extensive experience working in the U.S., give her a unique perspective on North American issues.
Cultural Background and Heritage
Tanja’s Serbian and Chilean heritage is something she embraces fully. She has spoken in interviews about the influence her upbringing has had on her worldview, and how it helps her connect with Chicago’s diverse population. Her fluency in multiple languages further solidifies her ability to communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds.
Where is Tanja Babich Now?
Current Position
As of 2024, Tanja Babich continues to anchor the weekday morning newscast at ABC 7 Chicago. Her dynamic style and commitment to delivering news with integrity keep her at the forefront of the station’s programming.
Future Projects or Endeavors
Though there’s no public confirmation of future projects, Tanja has expressed interest in continuing to evolve as a journalist. She’s also committed to mentoring the next generation of reporters and has hinted at potential projects related to empowering young women in journalism.
Social Media Presence
Tanja Babich actively engages with her audience on social media, where she shares both professional and personal updates.
Tanja Babich on Facebook
Tanja has a significant following on Facebook, where she frequently posts behind-the-scenes content from the ABC 7 newsroom. She also shares important news updates and interacts with her followers, answering questions and engaging in thoughtful discussions.
Tanja Babich on Twitter
Her Twitter account is another platform where she connects with viewers. On Twitter, Tanja is known for sharing real-time news updates, offering insights into current events, and promoting stories that matter to the Chicago community.
Other Platforms
Tanja is also active on Instagram, where she shares personal moments, including pictures with her family and colleagues. Her Instagram feed gives viewers a more intimate look at her life outside the newsroom.
Tanja Babich’s Impact at ABC 7 Chicago
Her Role in the Chicago Community
Tanja Babich is more than just a news anchor; she’s a prominent figure in the Chicago community. Whether it’s covering stories that impact local neighborhoods or participating in community events, Tanja is dedicated to making a difference. She is also involved in various charitable organizations, including Girls In The Know, a nonprofit that focuses on empowering young women.
Mentorship and Influence
Tanja has also taken on the role of a mentor for younger journalists at ABC 7 and beyond. She regularly speaks at journalism schools and public events, encouraging aspiring reporters to pursue their dreams with passion and dedication.
Long-Term Influence at ABC 7
As one of the key faces of ABC 7 Chicago, Tanja has left a lasting impact on both the station and its audience. Her unique storytelling style, combined with her deep connection to the community, ensures that she will remain a beloved figure in Chicago journalism for years to come.
Conclusion
Tanja Babich’s journey from a diverse, multicultural upbringing in Canada to becoming a top news anchor in Chicago is inspiring. Her hard work, education, and commitment to her craft have earned her a well-deserved place among the most respected journalists in the industry. As she continues to evolve in her career, her influence both in the newsroom and in the community is sure to grow.
With a supportive family, a successful career, and a strong sense of identity, Tanja Babich remains a role model for aspiring