Mary Strong sees local news as a form of service stating, “local news matters because it reflects real lives, not abstract headlines.”
At NBC Palm Springs, Strong anchors with a sense of purpose shaped by curiosity and discipline. Her path into journalism was driven by a desire to ask better questions and listen closely to the answers, skills that continue to guide her work.
Strong believes viewers can sense intent and they “can tell when you’re being sincere. You can’t fake that.” Whether delivering breaking news or telling quieter community stories, she approaches each broadcast with in preparation and restraint, aware that her role often places her in moments of uncertainty or stress for the audience.
She’s particularly mindful of authenticity on screen. Representation matters, she says, but sincerity matters more. Trust isn’t granted by title. It’s earned through consistency and honesty.
Steady and deliberate, Mary Strong embodies the idea that the most effective local journalism doesn’t shout. It shows up.