AUSTIN, Texas — For more than a decade, KVUE Anchor & Reporter Terri Gruca has been one of the top storytellers in Central Texas. From her in-depth investigations that have sparked change in local and national laws, to her recent Boomtown coverage of the rapid growth in Austin, Gruca has helped make Central Texas a better place for all.
“Being part of the KVUE Defenders has been one of my greatest honors,” said Gruca.
Her stories on medical devices dangers shed a light on the FDA’s lack of transparency into the medical devices put into millions of people each year. Her investigation into a gas explosion that killed a Central Texas farmer exposed aging pipelines and resulted in gas companies changing the pipes. Her recent stories on cities dumping treated wastewater into the very water Texans rely on for drinking and recreation is triggering many cities to change their practices.
Over the past few months, Gruca and news leadership have had several discussions on giving her more time to spend with her family. This culminated in giving her the opportunity to change anchor shifts from the 5 p.m. to the Midday newscast in June of this year.
“Anyone who is a working parent understands the juggle. Our boys are starting to get more involved in school activities and I don’t want to miss out,” said Gruca on the change.
However, after two months and much consideration, Gruca has made the decision to leave the profession.
“Leaving has not been an easy decision for me, but one I feel I have to make right now for my family. My boys are making their way through these challenging times, and I want to make sure I can be there to help them navigate it all without feeling like I’m short siding them or KVUE,” she said.
True to her nature, Gruca recognized and thanked her co-workers for all they do.
“I am so thankful to have had the chance to work with everyone behind the scenes, in front of the camera and on the anchor desk. The dedication and hours everyone puts in, especially these past few years, don’t go unrecognized,” said Gruca.
Gruca has been a journalist for 30 years. She first joined KVUE in 2008 as an evening anchor. She previously worked at WCCO in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota, WSPA in Spartanburg, South Carolina, WBIR in Knoxville, Tennessee, and WRAL in Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina. As her career evolved at KVUE, she moved to anchor the 5 p.m. newscasts while diving more into investigative storytelling.
“Terri has been our rock and a tremendous mentor in the KVUE newsroom. While we are sad to see her go, she will always be a part of the KVUE family,” said KVUE president and general manager Kristie Gonzales. “We wish Terri and her family the best.”
Gruca’s last day at KVUE will be Friday, Sept. 3.