SAN DIEGO -- After 28 years of covering major news stories across San Diego, veteran anchor Carol LeBeau announced Thursday her plan to retire from television news. “Channel 10 has always been committed to the community of San Diego, and I feel honored to be a part of it,” LeBeau said. “Being welcomed into so many people’s homes each night has been truly gratifying.” “Carol is an institution in San Diego news,” remarked KGTV Vice President and General Manager Jeffrey Block. “Many viewers grew up with her, watching her deliver the news in her confident and compassionate way.”

It is hard to imagine that nearly three decades ago, LeBeau was nervous about coming to California. “They were looking for a wholesome brunette to balance out the surfer dudes and other pretty blonde women,” she quips, but credits her dad with giving her the push. “He said, ‘You’re single and it’s a great growing community and if you don’t like it, you can always come home.’ And that got me in the car.” The Midwestern girl who spent three years reporting, anchoring and producing at the CBS affiliate in Peoria, IL, packed her bags, headed west and started weekend anchoring at KGTV.

But LeBeau’s commitment to the community extends far beyond the anchor desk. As an avid runner and rough-water swimmer, she works tirelessly to promote women’s health and well-being. “Over the years I’ve had the opportunity to cover fascinating health stories, including breakthrough surgical techniques and new medical technologies. I even swallowed a pill camera,” LeBeau recalls, “but what I really love is getting out with real people, dealing with real issues and hopefully making a difference.” LeBeau regularly speaks at civic, faith-based and health organizations, sharing her stories and inspiration with others. She looks forward to having time to focus on these engagements and the opportunity to make an even bigger impact in San Diego and across the country.

During her final 28 days, LeBeau will cover her 28 years in a special 10News series. “Carol has been a part of the many remarkable stories in San Diego,” commented KGTV News Director Joel Davis. “She’s toured with the Pope, been on Oprah and even jogged with the President.” Viewers will have the chance to revisit these moments when the retrospective series begins on April 23rd.

LeBeau’s last newscast will be at 11pm on May 20th.