In a significant leadership transition, Hearst Television has announced the appointment of Michael Solakian as the new bureau chief of its Washington, D.C., news bureau. Solakian, who has been serving as Assistant News Director at WTAE-TV in Pittsburgh since 2021, will take over this prestigious role starting February 1, 2025. This change comes as Wendy Wilk, who has held the position for two decades, departs to join The Hearst Foundations as Program Director of the United States Senate Youth Program. Solakian’s extensive experience in journalism and his proven leadership skills are expected to bring fresh perspectives to the bureau. The move underscores Hearst Television's commitment to maintaining a robust presence in the nation's capital, ensuring that local communities across the country stay informed about the impact of federal policies.

Details of the Leadership Transition

In the heart of the Nation’s Capital, a pivotal change is set to unfold as Michael Solakian prepares to assume the role of bureau chief for Hearst Television’s Washington, D.C., news bureau. For the past two years, Solakian has been an instrumental figure at WTAE-TV in Pittsburgh, where he served as Assistant News Director. His career journey began in Columbia, Missouri, where he honed his journalistic skills while earning his degree from the University of Missouri. Following his graduation, Solakian worked as a producer at KOMU-TV before moving on to WLKY-TV in Louisville, where he continued to develop his expertise. Later, he joined Hearst’s WBAL-11 in Baltimore, taking on roles as both producer and executive producer.

The timing of this transition coincides with the departure of Wendy Wilk, who has dedicated 20 years to leading the bureau. Her new role with The Hearst Foundations marks a significant shift in her career, focusing on the United States Senate Youth Program. Solakian will report directly to David Hurlburt, Hearst Television’s Director of Special Projects and Group Initiatives. Barbara Maushard, Hearst Television’s SVP/Chief Content Officer for News, emphasized the importance of this appointment, highlighting how it reinforces the company’s dedication to connecting national events with local communities. Established in 1988, the Washington, D.C., bureau plays a crucial role in providing insightful coverage of federal actions and their implications for the broader public.

From a journalist’s perspective, this transition signifies a renewed commitment to delivering high-quality, impactful news. Solakian’s background and expertise promise to bring a fresh approach to the bureau’s mission of explaining the significance of Washington’s decisions to the communities served by Hearst stations. This move not only strengthens Hearst’s presence in the capital but also ensures that the voices and concerns of local audiences remain at the forefront of national discussions. It is a testament to the enduring value of localism in journalism and the power of informed storytelling in shaping public understanding.