Heather Hays was born in Athens, Georgia, and grew up in Houston, Texas. She graduated summa cum laude from Chaminade University of Honolulu with a BS in behavioral sciences. Before earning a master's degree in television and film from Boston University, she was crowned Miss Hawaii USA, and she competed in the Miss USA pageant. Heather began her career in television news more than fifteen years ago as a weather caster and general assignment reporter, shooting and editing her own stories. Today, she is an anchor in one of the country's largest media markets. Industry recognition includes Edward R. Murrow, AP, RTNDA, and Katie awards. Heather sits on the board of directors for CONTACT, a crisis and counseling hotline, and she lives in Dallas, Texas.