Gia Vang joined the 12 News team in October 2013 as a reporter and multi-media journalist.
Before landing in Phoenix, she was a reporter and fill-in anchor at Fox 4 in Kansas City, Missouri. There, she covered severe weather, and yes, that includes chasing tornadoes and telling the stories people in places like Moore, Oklahoma. During her time in KC, Gia was Emmy- nominated for a story about the changing cultures in Kansas City's first neighborhood. Unfortunately for Diamondbacks and Cardinals fans, Gia also became a huge Royals and Chiefs fan.
Gia began her career in Eugene, Oregon as a weekend anchor and reporter. She shot and edited her own video the entire time she worked in Oregon. There, she was nominated by the Associated Press for best breaking news story about a massive barn fire. She covered many stories about the Oregon Ducks football team, including their road to the BCS National Championship. But Sundevil fans will be happy to hear, she's got a lot of love for Arizona State.
Gia's parents are immigrants from Laos and fled during the Vietnam War. Her family was sponsored to come to the states while in a refugee camp in Thailand. Gia was born in Modesto, California. Her family moved to Sacramento when she was young and that's where she grew up. She went to California State University, Sacramento, now known as Sacramento State. She interned at KCRA 3 while in college. Gia graduated with a degree in Journalism and a minor in Family and Consumer Sciences.
Gia used to write stories for extra credit in grade school. She took that childhood love and made it her profession. Gia loves her job because 1) She's always learning with every story she tells and 2) She gets to meet and talk to people from all walks of life.
Gia loves trying new restaurants, cooking, going to sporting events, taking advantage of recreational opportunities, travelling and keeping in touch with her growing family back home! She has eight siblings and several nieces and nephews. If you've got a story idea or just want to say hi, email Gia at gvang@12news.com. facebook.com/giavangnews
About Me: I'm a story teller, news hound, all kinds of food fan, and sports fanatic. I'm also a granddaughter, daughter, a sister, and aunt to tons of nieces and nephews.
Hometown: Sacramento, CA
City of Residence: Phoenix
Your Heritage: Hmong
Current Position: Reporter/MMJ
When you joined 12 News: October 2013
College Graduated from: California State University, Sacramento
Interests/Hobbies: Trying new restaurants, cooking, going to sporting events, taking advantage of recreational opportunities, listening to new music, learning
Favorite Music: Anything from the 60's, country, alternative, Brazilian music
Favorite Song: Depends on the mood, too many to choose from.
Favorite Book(s): The Kite Runner, The DaVinci Code
Favorite Quote(s): "Treat others the way you want to be treated."
Favorite Food(s): I love most food, but if I had to pick, it would be Mediterranean, Vegetarian, American (burgers and fries!), Thai, Italian and not necessarily in that order.
Favorite Color(s): Turquoise
Favorite Travel Destination: Somewhere warm, by a beach
Pets: N/A
Children: N/A
Hidden Talents: I can eat an entire medium pizza by myself.
Favorite Sports Teams: Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals, Arizona State Sun Devils, Oregon Ducks, Portland Timbers, and I am looking for an NBA and hockey team. Maybe the Suns and Coyotes?
Favorite Moment in Broadcasting: Though I've interviewed some amazing human beings, and had some great laughs on T.V., my favorite moment in broadcasting was my first day on T.V. It was that feeling of, "Wow. I'm really doing this." That's a good feeling, you know?
Why you decided to work in TV: I was always fascinated with local news growing up, but never thought I would actually do it. But when the time came to pick a profession, it just sort of, happened. I'm so glad it did because I love, love, love meeting new people. I could probably talk to you all day if I didn't have a deadline! I feel so lucky to get to come across people I otherwise might not if I picked another job. Also, I love telling stories. I get to tell a story each day, and one that matters to the community.
Where else I have worked: Eugene, OR, Kansas City, MO
First Story Reported: University of Oregon tuition
Your First Job: Sandwich "artist" and ice cream scooper at Togo's and Baskin Robbins
What People Would Never Guess About You: People are always surprised when I tell them I love country music! My dad had a ton of Randy Travis tapes growing up.
What you love about living in Arizona: It stays warm enough that I'll never have to layer!
Your Biggest Pet Peeve: People who don't wash their hands after using the bathroom
Your Prized Possession: My vinyl records
What I'm Passionate About: Trying new recipes, sports and telling stories
Dream Vacation: One that doesn't end. I guess that's retirement…
