On January 13, 2025, a thrilling celebration unfolded in the heart of Rockefeller Plaza. Wofford College alumni, donned in their signature black and gold colors, gathered outside the iconic Today Show studios, eagerly showing their support for one of their own: Craig Melvin. The South Carolina native was embarking on his first day as co-anchor of NBC’s prestigious morning show. The excitement was palpable, with cheering fans holding up signs that read heartfelt messages like "Turning the Today Show Plaza Old Gold and Black celebrating Craig Melvin," "Wofford (hearts) Craig Melvin," and "Cheers to Craig from Wofford College."
This was no ordinary Monday for Craig Melvin, who had earned the coveted seat next to Savannah Guthrie after years of hard work and dedication. It was a day full of pride, joy, and love, as family members, including his wife, children, and parents, also gathered to celebrate his remarkable achievement. His parents, Lawrence and Betty Jo Melvin, flew in from Columbia, South Carolina, to be part of the momentous occasion, their faces beaming with pride.
As the camera panned over the plaza, fans from Spartanburg and Columbia raised their voices in unison to congratulate Melvin. Some carried homemade placards while others waved their Wofford banners high. It was clear that Melvin had deep roots in the community, and those who had watched his journey closely were thrilled to see him reach this career milestone. “Congratulations on day one!” read one sign, a sentiment that echoed throughout the plaza.
The energy was contagious, and it was a fitting backdrop for the celebration of Melvin’s new role as co-anchor. Just days before, on January 10, long-time host Hoda Kotb had passed the baton to Melvin in an emotional handover. Kotb, who had anchored the show for 17 years, expressed her excitement and support, telling Melvin, “Craig, I am so happy for you. You’ve earned this. You own this.” Her words were a heartfelt endorsement, a tribute to his years of hard work in the industry.
On Melvin’s first day, Kotb had a special surprise for him—a video message and a handwritten letter that she shared during the show. In her note, Kotb conveyed her heartfelt wishes, writing, “I’m moving forward, so reach back your hand. Grab the baton; your world will expand. The adventures are endless…great memories await…year after year. Day One…You’re ready…surrounded by love, and your team is the kind you can only dream of…With partners like these, your runway is clear.” Kotb’s words were a powerful reminder that Melvin’s journey was only just beginning, and the best was yet to come.
The love and encouragement didn’t stop there. Melvin’s family members took turns sharing their admiration for him. His son, Delano, gave a sweet shout-out to his dad, saying, “He’s a great dad, and he deserves to be here.” Meanwhile, his daughter, Sybil, shared a handwritten note describing how much her father meant to her, recalling their playful moments of tickle fights and watching TV shows together. “My dad loves to play with me,” Sybil said, giving a heartwarming glimpse into their family dynamic.
Melvin’s parents also sat on the iconic couch, sharing their pride and love for their son. His mother, Betty Jo, admitted to feeling butterflies in her stomach, while praising her son’s hard work and determination. “I’ve always encouraged him. Do what you can do. High expectations. He has proven to me and everybody that he has done his very best and he deserves this,” she said, with tears of joy in her eyes. Lawrence Melvin, his father, recounted how his son would always greet him with excitement after his long third-shift workday, a moment that showcased their close relationship. “Dad, let me tell you something,” Lawrence shared, highlighting how their conversations had always been filled with enthusiasm.
As the show kicked off, Melvin couldn’t help but express his gratitude. “So I’m not sitting on this couch with you if it were not for these two,” he said, directing his words toward Savannah Guthrie, his co-anchor. It was clear that family played a central role in Melvin’s success, and he wasn’t shy about acknowledging the unwavering support they had given him throughout the years.
For those unfamiliar with Melvin’s background, the South Carolina native’s path to the Today Show was paved with years of dedication and passion for journalism. A graduate of Columbia High School, Melvin started his broadcasting career early, working with WIS-TV in Columbia, South Carolina, before joining NBC and MSNBC in 2011. Over the years, Melvin built a reputation as a skilled anchor and correspondent, eventually earning an Emmy award for his outstanding work. He became a familiar face on Dateline and joined the Today Show team in 2018, steadily earning the trust and admiration of viewers across the country.
The announcement of Melvin’s co-anchor position was made on November 14, 2024, and it was met with widespread excitement. “I am beyond excited and grateful,” Melvin said in the wake of the news. “I’ve enjoyed just a lifetime of blessings, and this is the latest in a long line of blessings.” His co-anchor, Savannah Guthrie, joined in the celebrations, praising Melvin’s work ethic and character. “We are so excited about the news in our ‘Today’ family, and that is the person sitting right next to me,” she said, her voice filled with warmth. “Craig Melvin is the new anchor of the Today show.” It was an endorsement from a trusted colleague and friend, and viewers couldn’t wait to see the dynamic duo in action.
In honor of Melvin’s first day on air, Wofford College alumni were invited to join the celebration in New York City. The college sent out a heartfelt invitation, urging alumni to show up at 6:15 a.m. in Rockefeller Plaza to participate in the live broadcast. The alumni were asked to wear Wofford’s signature black and gold and bring congratulatory posters to help make the occasion even more special. The email even encouraged alumni to get creative, suggesting that signs themed around Craig Melvin, Wofford College, and the Today Show would add to the excitement.
For those who couldn’t make it to the plaza, alumni were invited to gather at the Yale Club later in the evening to continue the celebration. It was a chance for Wofford graduates to connect, reminisce, and celebrate Melvin’s success together.
Melvin’s story is one of perseverance, talent, and community. His rise to prominence in the broadcasting world is a testament to his dedication and passion for telling stories that matter. Whether it’s his roots in Columbia, South Carolina, his love for his family, or his journey from local newsrooms to national television, Craig Melvin’s success is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when you chase your dreams with determination. The world is watching as Melvin embarks on this exciting new chapter—there’s no telling what heights he’ll reach next. And for all the Wofford alumni and fans cheering him on, this is just the beginning.
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