Amalia Barreda has built a reputation as a fearless and insightful journalist, known for reporting some of the most impactful stories in recent history with clarity and compassion. As a longtime reporter at WCVB-TV in Boston, she earned the trust of viewers through her thoughtful coverage of critical events, including the priest sexual abuse scandal that shook the Catholic Church and reverberated across the globe. Her work combined the urgency of breaking news with a deep commitment to public understanding, consistently elevating the standards of broadcast journalism.
Ms. Barreda’s academic background shaped much of her professional approach. She earned a bachelor’s degree in music and languages from The University of Arizona, developing both the performance skills and cultural sensitivity that later defined her work in television. A classically trained flutist, she studied with the famed Jean-Pierre Rampal in France before shifting paths to pursue journalism full time. The discipline and confidence she gained as a musician translated naturally into her on-camera presence and her ability to connect with audiences.
Ms. Barreda’s exceptional work has earned her numerous accolades. She was inducted into the Massachusetts Broadcasters Hall of Fame, received the National Gabriel Award for “Katie Lynch: An Inspiration,” and was honored by the Boston YWCA Academy of Women Achievers. Her reporting on the Mexico City earthquake and her work on a documentary about Por Cristo earned her Emmy Awards, further highlighting the impact of her journalism.
Ms. Barreda began her journalism career at KVOA-TV in Tucson, Arizona, where she was hired for a midnight news position despite having no formal experience in broadcasting. Her transition from music to media was marked by perseverance and adaptability, quickly proving herself as a capable reporter. Her natural storytelling ability and dedication to getting the facts right led to opportunities in larger markets, including roles as a reporter and anchor at KPIX-TV in San Francisco and KCST-TV in San Diego. While in San Francisco, she covered significant moments such as the fallout from Patricia Hearst’s capture and the investigation into Jim Jones and the People’s Temple.
Following this early success, Ms. Barreda’s move to Detroit marked another major step in her career. At WJBK-TV, she was a weekend anchor and general assignment reporter, delivering stories that ranged from politics to human interest features. She later moved to Boston, spending nearly a decade at WHDH-TV before joining WCVB-TV. There, she brought national attention to high-profile court cases, including the O.J. Simpson trial and the Louise Woodward case.
Outside of journalism, Ms. Barreda has been actively involved in civic life, contributing her time and voice to causes such as the Boys & Girls Clubs in Boston and Lazarus House in Lawrence, Massachusetts. She has hosted fundraising events and worked with organizations committed to community development and support for vulnerable populations.
In retirement, Ms. Barreda remains intellectually and creatively engaged. She enjoys hosting dinner gatherings, cooking, practicing Pilates and hiking, particularly in the Grand Canyon. She is also working on a book of biographies, drawing on decades of interviews and life lessons. Surrounded by family and friends, she continues to reflect on a career that gave her a front-row seat to history and the opportunity to share it with the world.