Donna Farizan, a “Today” contributor, introduced her departure from the NBC morning present throughout Monday’s “Today With Jenna and Friends.”
“A year ago, I launched a series called ‘Own Your Power,’ where I challenged myself to speak my truth,” Farizan advised co-hosts Jenna Bush Hager and Savannah Guthrie. “And now, after 12 years with ‘Today,’ I’m challenging myself to spread my wings beyond the show to see what new and exciting opportunities await me professionally.”
Farizan, 34, then learn a letter she wrote to herself reflecting on the experiences and classes she gained throughout her time on the present.
“The world of TV and content can sometimes feel overwhelming because there is no road map,” she mentioned as highlights from the final 12 years performed. “But I am so grateful to have gone to the school of Kathie Lee Gifford, the school of Hoda Kotb and the school of Jenna Bush Hager, because now it’s time for me, Donna Farizan, to create my own map.”
Farizan, who joined “Today” as an intern when she was 20, grew to become a full-time contributor after graduating from George Washington College in Washington, D.C.
All through her “Today” profession, she hosted recreation segments and, by her section “Own Your Power,” advised tales of individuals realizing their capabilities. Farizan usually shared private experiences on the present or by essays written for At this time.com, the place she wrote about freezing her eggs.
The present’s employees joined Farizan, Hager and Guthrie onstage to bid their contributor farewell.
Farizan thanked Hager for instructing her that being herself is sufficient and advised Guthrie that she was one of many reporters she studied for her senior thesis in faculty.
Earlier than signing off, Farizan thanked the viewers for rising up together with her and for being a relentless of the present.