Zoe Chipalla

Born in Rockford and raised in Rockton, Zoe holds a great sense of pride reporting in her hometown. She started as an intern in June 2020, before working her way up to anchoring evenings. Her favorite part of the job is connecting with her community.

“I meet someone new every day,” she says. “More often than not, I share genuine interactions with those people, and it presents new opportunities for me to empathize, grow, and develop wisdom. It makes my work that much more meaningful.”

When she’s not working, she’s lost in a book, or finding a new true crime podcast to start. Tempted to try anything at least once, Zoe enjoys everything thrill-seeking, like ziplining or whitewater rafting, going to concerts and comedy clubs, and taking her dog, Ginger, on hikes. Some of her other passions include musical theater, singing, eating, traveling, and shopping.

THE MOST IMPORTANT PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE AND WHY? My family. They're compassionate and nurturing, and constantly support me to work hard to achieve my ambitions. They believe I can do it, too.

SOMETHING OTHERS MIGHT FIND SURPRISING? I've been singing and acting in musical theater in Illinois and Wisconsin since I was seven. Some of my more notable performances include singing the National Anthem for Rockford Icehogs and Aviators games. My favorite roles were playing Mayzie La Bird from "Suessical the Musical," Percy Talbott from "The Spitfire Grill," and Sylvia from "Sylvia."

WHO IS THE BIGGEST INFLUENCE ON YOUR LIFE AND WHY? Writers and Comedians, Karen Kilgariff and Mindy Kaling. Both women overcame the trials in their lives, relying on their wit and intelligence to inspire women like me. Their work reminds me to laugh more and to stop taking life so seriously.

ASTROLOGY SIGN? Aries.

FAVORITE SPORT? Does running to the fridge to grab another snack count??

FAVORITE TV SHOW? Bob’s Burgers.