5 questions for Camellia Burris, WPLN’s new education reporter

Camellia Burris is WPLN News’ new education beat reporter.

A Nashville native, Camellia is uniquely qualified to cover education in Middle Tennessee. She has worked as an attorney and investigative reporter at the Miami Herald who has an eye for untold stories and a specific vision for how she plans to cover the beat.

Get to know Camellia:

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was growing up, I wanted to be a singer and dancer. Unfortunately, I cannot sing at all, but I did take dance classes at my middle school that specialized in the performing arts, so I halfway achieved my dream.

What led you to a career in journalism?

I first thought about journalism in the second grade when my teacher gave everyone her prediction on what our career paths might be. She predicted that I was going to be a news reporter. I think she said that because I was chatty and always volunteered to read for the class.

I became interested in journalism again in high school and planned to pursue it in college. However, my studies led me to law school. While there, I became close with one of my professors who was a journalist and a lawyer. She encouraged my interest in journalism –noting that the skills I gained in law school would translate well into a journalist role. I worked for a few years as a judicial law clerk, and after taking a journalism evening class, I decided to pursue it as a full-time career.

What can listeners expect from your work in the coming year?

I hope that my fellow Tennesseans come to rely on me to keep them updated on our state’s changing educational policies. As a product of the Davidson County school system, I am personally invested in how these policies will impact Tennessee students from kindergarten classrooms to college campuses.

I plan to focus on equity, the achievement gap, and barriers to higher education facing marginalized students.

What is it like to be back in Nashville after growing up here?

It’s been really nice coming back to Nashville to spend more time with my family and connect with old friends. The city has grown so much, and many parts are unrecognizable from what I remember as a child. But the essence of the city feels the same — still great people and food!

What do you like to do for fun outside the office?

When I am not in the office, I like to visit all the new restaurants. Brunch is my favorite meal, and Nashville has no shortage of brunch spots. I also like walking on hiking trails with my family.