The purpose of the academy is to give honor and recognition to a select group of our outstanding graduate and undergraduate alumni. It is with great pride and enthusiasm that we honor them – and thank them for their willingness to give back to our school.

School of Communication
2006 Alumni Academy Inductee

Suzanne Geha

BA, Communication Arts & Sciences, 1973

Suzanne Geha has anchored the evening news at 24 Hour News 8 for twenty-five consecutive years. Her longevity is a testament to both her skills and her connection with the people of West Michigan.

A native Detroiter, Suzanne first worked at WOOD-TV after graduating from Western Michigan University. Between 1974-78, she honed her skills at every newsroom job, becoming the first woman to anchor an evening West Michigan newscast in 1976.

But that was not the first time Suzanne was first. In 1971, she and another female student were the first women to report and deliver the news at WMU's campus station, WIDR, and in 1972, she was the first woman to report and anchor the news at WKNR-AM/WKFR-FM in Battle Creek.

In 1978, Suzanne was hired in Detroit to work as a reporter and weekend anchor at the top rated WXYZ-TV, an ABC owned-and-operated station

Suzanne received the Silver Circle Award from the Michigan Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences for more than twenty-five years of service in broadcasting, an Emmy from the Detroit Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, awards from the American Women in Radio and Television (AWRT), Michigan Association of Broadcasters, Associated Press, United Press International, and inclusion in the Distinguished Alumni "Wall of Fame" at her alma mater.

Suzanne helped found AWRT in West Michigan.  She currently sits on the Board of the Coffee Dunkers of Grand Rapids, served on the Western Michigan University Alumni Board of Trustees, as treasurer of the board of her church, and as vice-president of the Press Club of Grand Rapids.

Additionally, Suzanne lends her name and time to many worthwhile charities in West Michigan, including the Dunkers Club, Salvation Army, Kidney Foundation, Liz's House, Athena, Junior Achievement, Hope Network and Meijer Gardens.  She also offers her professional support to local arts organizations and public institutions.  

Suzanne is married and has four children.