Augusta McDonnell joined 9 News in April of 2021. A Montana native, Augusta graduated from the University of Montana in Missoula with a degree in Journalism. She also studied middle eastern civilizations, theology and politics for two years at Biola University in La Mirada, California.
Her journalism experience began at The Chimes newspaper at Biola, where she covered people living with disabilities on campus as they struggled to access appropriate accommodations. The Chimes was awarded an Associate Collegiate Press Online Pacemaker Award during her time with the paper.
One summer in college, she reported and photographed for the Broadwater Reporter in her hometown – Townsend! She wrote pieces exploring the rich history of Broadwater County. Augusta reported on invasive species, the county fair, the walleye tournament and breaking news.
She traveled to the Golan Heights in northern Israel/southern Syria and blogged for the Jerusalem Post for a summer in 2015. There, she examined rural economies and local religious dynamics. Augusta witnessed how people lived in various conflict zones while spending time throughout Israel. She also brought home a stray puppy, Tobias, who has made a comfortable life for himself with Augusta in the United States.
After returning to Montana to complete her degree, Augusta began her broadcast career at KPAX-TV News in Missoula. She worked many early morning and late evenings producing and anchoring newscasts. She reported in-depth stories about public health care funding cuts and the impact on vulnerable populations in Montana. Augusta reported on Indigenous issues and covered the resettlement of refugees in Missoula.
Augusta received an award from the Society of Professional Journalists for her work covering methamphetamine and foster care while working on a University of Montana project. The Montana Broadcasters Association awarded Augusta for her contribution to team breaking news coverage of The Roaring Lion Fire.
In her free time, Augusta enjoys working out, spending time with her husband, Ryan, and exploring Oklahoma City’s culinary scene. She loves connecting with people in the community. Be sure to say hello and feel free to reach out to her with story ideas, tips and questions.
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