Mark Mellinger

Mark Mellinger is WANE-TV's evening news anchor. He also plays a lead role in shaping Newschannel 15's election analysis segments, is a frequent moderator/questioner in local political debates, and hosts WANE-TV's public affairs show "Focus 15".

Over the years, he's also gained a reputation as "the man the newsmakers talk to."  Mark has nailed down exclusive interviews with leading figures in national politics (Barack Obama, John McCain, Sarah Palin, Hillary Clinton, Mitt Romney),  major sports (Tony Dungy, Tom Crean, CBS's Jim Nantz), religion (Dr. James Dobson, Rev. Jerry Falwell), and Indiana news (Governor Mitch Daniels, Senator Evan Bayh, Senator Richard Lugar).

Mark has served in virtually every possible capacity in the TV news business during his career, including photographer, tape editor, assignment editor, producer, sportscaster, and reporter during stops at KOCO-TV in Oklahoma City, WBC-TV in Columbus, Ind., and WISH-TV in Indianapolis.

He joined NewsChannel 15 in January 1998, serving three years as weekend anchor and then more than six years as morning anchor before being promoted to 5, 6, & 11 p.m. anchor in 2007.

In terms of awards, Mark's most significant honor was being part of a team achievement when a newscast he co-anchored with Heather Herron in 2010 won a regional Emmy award. His reporting has also been honored by the Associated Press, Indiana Broadcasters Association, and the Society of Professional Journalists. 

In his spare time, Mark enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. He is an avid reader, Chicago Cubs & Bears fan, and history buff.

Mark is also very active in several local ministries. He is a Bible teacher at North Park Community Church, hosts the talk show "1090 Today" on local Christian radio station WFCV, serves on the board of directors of Southside Opportunity Services (an after school tutoring program) and Faith Based Mentoring Ministries, and was one of the founders of the Northeast Indiana Reformation Society.

Mark has also taught broadcast journalism at Huntington University. He earned his bachelor's degree from Indiana University.

 You can e-mail Mark at: mark.mellinger@wane.com