Margaret Orr WDSU, Biography, Age, Husband, and Retirement

Margaret Orr: A Legacy of Weather Reporting Excellence at WDSU NBC6 News

Introduction:

Margaret Orr, the esteemed chief meteorologist at WDSU NBC6 News, is known for her unparalleled dedication to weather reporting and her unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the Southeast Louisiana community.

With a career spanning over four decades, Orr has become a trusted source of weather information, earning accolades for her expertise, professionalism, and genuine concern for her viewers. This comprehensive article delves into Margaret Orr’s remarkable journey in broadcast meteorology, highlighting her contributions, achievements, and the profound impact she has had on the New Orleans area.

Early Life and Education:

Born and raised in New Orleans, Margaret Orr developed a fascination with weather phenomena at a young age. Her curiosity was sparked by a childhood experience standing in the eye of Hurricane Betsy, which left an indelible impression on her.

Determined to pursue her passion for meteorology, Orr pursued higher education at Louisiana State University (LSU), where she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Broadcast Meteorology. Additionally, she holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Radio, Television, and Film Broadcasting from San Jose State University, further enriching her understanding of media communication.

Career Beginnings and Rise to Chief Meteorologist:

Margaret Orr’s illustrious career at WDSU began in 1979 when she joined the station as a general assignment reporter. Over the years, her dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence propelled her to new heights within the organization.

In 2009, Orr was appointed as the chief meteorologist, a role in which she excelled, providing invaluable insights and guidance during both routine weather forecasts and severe weather events. Her leadership of the WDSU First Warning Weather team has been instrumental in keeping the community informed and safe.

Contributions and Community Engagement:

Throughout her tenure at WDSU, Margaret Orr has made significant contributions to the Southeast Louisiana community beyond weather reporting. She has been actively involved in various charitable endeavors and community events, including co-hosting the Children’s Hospital Telethon for over two decades, raising millions of dollars for pediatric healthcare.

Orr’s commitment to community service extends to her role as emcee of The Mystic Krewe of Barkus, a beloved French Quarter dog parade that she helped establish in 1993. Additionally, in recognition of her contributions, Orr was named an Honorary Muse by New Orleans’ first all-female Mardi Gras Krewe Muses in 2024.

Professional Recognition and Awards:

Margaret Orr’s exemplary work in broadcast meteorology has garnered widespread acclaim and numerous accolades throughout her career. She is a proud member of both the American Meteorological Society and the National Weather Association, holding Seals of Approval from both prestigious organizations.

Orr’s dedication to excellence has been recognized with multiple first-place awards from the Associated Press and the New Orleans Press Club for her exceptional reporting during breaking weather events.

Legacy and Retirement:

After 45 years of dedicated service to WDSU NBC6 News, Margaret Orr announced her retirement, marking the end of an era in New Orleans’ broadcast meteorology landscape. Her departure leaves a void in the hearts of viewers and colleagues alike, but her legacy of professionalism, integrity, and community service will endure.

As she bids farewell to her esteemed career, Margaret Orr leaves behind a lasting impact on Southeast Louisiana, having touched the lives of countless individuals through her unwavering commitment to keeping them informed and safe.

Conclusion:

Margaret Orr’s illustrious career at WDSU NBC6 News is a testament to her passion for weather reporting, dedication to her community, and unwavering professionalism. From her early beginnings as a general assignment reporter to her tenure as chief meteorologist, Orr has been a trusted source of information and a beacon of light during both calm weather and stormy conditions.

As she embarks on the next chapter of her life in retirement, Margaret Orr’s contributions to broadcast meteorology and her enduring legacy will be fondly remembered by all who have had the privilege of watching her on WDSU.

Margaret Orr Biography Information

Margaret Orr is an American journalist working as a meteorologist for WDSU NBC6 News. Margaret was raised in New Orleans, where her interest in weather was sparked at a young age after experiencing Hurricane Betsy firsthand.

As her fascination with meteorology deepened, she excelled in the Mississippi State Broadcast Meteorology program. When Margaret is off duty, you’ll often find her sharing weather updates on Twitter under the handle @margaretorr.

She regularly tweets the latest forecasts and provides timely warnings during severe weather events to ensure the safety of her followers.

Outside of work, Margaret leads a fulfilling life with her husband, three children, and their dog, Bleu, who holds the prestigious title of King of Barkus. In her free time, Margaret enjoys gardening, painting, reading, swimming, and biking.

Margaret Orr Education Background

She completed her education at Louise S. McGehee High School before attending Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge.

Margaret Orr WDSU NBC6 News

Orr joined WDSU News in 1979 as a general assignment reporter. Transitioning to weather forecasting in 2009, she began delivering weather reports for the 5, 6, and 10 p.m. news, having previously worked on the morning news.

Over the years, she co-hosted the “Breakfast Edition” with Bill Stanley and later the “World’s Fair Show” with Alec Gifford. Margaret has been an integral part of the Children’s Hospital Telethon for more than 20 years, co-hosting alongside Norman Robinson and aiding in raising millions of dollars for Children’s Hospital.

A member of both the American Meteorological Society and the National Weather Association, she holds Seals of Approval from both organizations. Margaret’s excellence in weather reporting has earned her first-place awards from the Associated Press and the New Orleans Press Club for breaking weather stories.

Margaret Orr Retirement

WDSU’s chief meteorologist Margaret Orr is set to retire after an impressive 45-year career. Orr joined the New Orleans NBC affiliate back in 1979 and later ascended to the position of chief meteorologist in 2009.

Expressing gratitude for Orr’s long-standing commitment, WDSU news director Melissa Dart stated, “From calm blue skies to the most severe weather conditions, Margaret has dedicated decades to ensuring the safety and well-being of all of us here in Southeast Louisiana. It has been a privilege to witness her leadership of the WDSU First Warning Weather team as we serve this remarkable community.”

Reflecting on her career, Orr remarked, “My purpose has always been to provide a beacon of positivity during fair weather and to stand ready when the weather turns turbulent. Having grown up here, I consider the people of Southeast Louisiana my family. My foremost goal has always been to keep them secure and prepared for any challenges that may arise.”

Orr’s impact extends beyond weather forecasting, as evidenced by her involvement in community events. In 1993, admirers of Orr established The Mystic Krewe of Barkus, a popular French Quarter dog parade, which she has been hosting annually. Furthermore, in 2024, Orr was honored with the title of Honorary Muse by New Orleans’ first all-female Mardi Gras Krewe Muses.

Recognizing Orr’s significant contributions, WDSU general manager Mike Neelly stated, “We are profoundly appreciative of Margaret’s years of dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to community service in Southeast Louisiana. While her retirement marks the conclusion of a remarkable era, her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire us all.”

Orr’s farewell broadcast is scheduled for the 6 p.m. edition on Friday, March 29th, marking the conclusion of an illustrious career in broadcast meteorology.

How Old is Margaret Orr?

Margaret was raised in New Orleans. Information about her exact date of birth and age will be updated as soon as it is available to the general public.

Margaret Orr Nationality

Having been born and raised in New Orleans, she is an American.

Is Margaret Orr Married?

She is married to Bill Settoon. The couple has three children and a dog named Bleu. More information about Bill and his family will be updated as soon as it is available to the general public.

How Much Does Margaret Orr Earn?

Margaret earns an estimated annual salary of between $60, 000 and $120, 000 working as the chief meteorologist for WDSU NBC6 News.

How Much is Margaret Orr Worth?

Orr has an estimated net worth of between $1 million and $5 million which she has accumulated throughout her career.

Margaret Orr Body Measurements

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