SYRACUSE, N.Y. — For generations of central New Yorkers, Christie Casciano has been a steady, familiar presence, delivering the news in moments of crisis, celebration and everything in between.
Now, the Syracuse Press Club is recognizing that legacy, naming Casciano to its Wall of Distinction, the organization’s highest honor for journalists whose careers have made a lasting impact on the profession and the community.
Casciano, a veteran broadcaster at WSYR-TV NewsChannel 9, has spent nearly four decades covering Central New York’s most important stories. A graduate of Syracuse University’s Newhouse School, she began her career in radio before moving to television in Rochester and ultimately returning home to the station she grew up watching
She now co-anchors NewsChannel 9’s First at 4 p.m., as well as its 5 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. broadcasts alongside Jeff Kulikowsky.
Throughout her career, Casciano has covered many of the region’s most significant stories, building a reputation for thoughtful, community-focused reporting. She is also the creator of OnTheLookout.net, a crime-focused initiative that has helped law enforcement solve hundreds of cases and has earned recognition across New York state.
In his nomination letter, Kulikowsky, who led the effort to recognize Casciano, described her as “the epitome of a true journalist,” citing her commitment to high standards and a public-first approach to reporting.
“She always puts the public interest first,” he wrote, adding that her work reflects both purpose and integrity.
Casciano’s work has earned numerous honors, including an Edward R. Murrow Award, multiple state and community awards, and the Syracuse Press Club’s Professional Standards Award. She was also recognized with an official “Christie Casciano Day” in Onondaga County.
Colleagues, community leaders and public officials echoed similar praise in multiple nomination letters, highlighting Casciano’s impact as both a journalist and mentor. Several noted her role in guiding younger reporters and producers, while others emphasized her ability to connect with viewers and tell stories that resonate across the community.
Beyond the newsroom, Casciano is an author, columnist and podcaster. She writes for USA Hockey Magazine, co-hosts the “Our Kids Play Hockey” podcast and has authored a series of children’s books, including “The Puck Hog.”
She also co-authored “Syracuse Television History” with colleagues Lou Gulino and Tim Fox and regularly visits classrooms across central New York to encourage young readers and aspiring journalists.
Casciano will be honored alongside fellow Wall of Distinction inductee Kevin Rivoli, a veteran photojournalist with The Citizen.
Both will be recognized at the Syracuse Press Club’s Professional Recognition Awards ceremony on May 2.