2020 DRA Distinguished Leadership Award: Caroline Welch
We are excited to announce that Caroline Welch, former WTVD president and general manager, has received Downtown Raleigh Alliance's Distinguished Leadership award for 2020. Through her dedication and leadership, Caroline has contributed to Downtown Raleigh's success. After moving to Raleigh in 2012 from Philadelphia, Caroline quickly became a strong supporter and advocate for Downtown Raleigh. Caroline oversaw ABC11's expansion of its downtown studio including its modernization and worked to establish ABC11's morning news broadcast at the Fayetteville Street studio. Caroline also served her community by serving on DRA's board and supporting community events like the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Downtown Raleigh Restaurant Week. Thank you Caroline for your leadership and commitment to the community!
Learn more about Caroline in her interview below including her most rewarding career experience, her favorite places in Downtown Raleigh to eat and shop, and what she's most grateful for now.
What led you to your career at ABC11?
I had many stops in life before I joined the ABC station group in 1992. I wasn’t smart enough to know what a great decision it was to take that first job, but I was smart enough to stay. My bosses became mentors and friends and offered me a lot of opportunities for growth. I always tried to make sure I never disappointed them and that I always got the job done.
What has been most rewarding during your career?
Being able to see the joy on the faces of my team when we had a big win. It feels good to do well. It feels exponentially better when everyone does well.
What’s a mistake you made early in your career and what did you learn from it?
Oh my, there were so many, and I learned from them all. Probably the biggest one was not getting a promotion when I assumed being good at my current job qualified me for the next level. It made me consider what qualities the new boss had that I did not. That changed everything for me.
What are you most proud of personally?
Marrying my husband. It’s the smartest personal decision I’ve ever made.
How would you describe Downtown Raleigh?
Pre-pandemic, I would have said vibrant, friendly, welcoming. I can’t wait until we get back to that point. And I know we will.
What are some of your favorite places to spend time, visit, eat, and shop in Downtown Raleigh?
Marbles, Deco, Oro, Caffe Luna, Pooleside….I could go on and on. How much room do you have?
Do you have a bucket list? If so, what’s on it?
My bucket list used to be visiting places all over the world. Now it’s just being able to hug all of my grandchildren.
What are you grateful for right now?
My health. I think we’re all learning through this pandemic about keeping everything else in perspective.