Kimberly Bookman, a well-known Boston television journalist and Emmy Award-winning anchor, has revealed she is stepping away from her role after 12 years covering some of the region’s biggest stories, while suggesting that her next chapter “is just beginning.”
Bookman joined WHDH’s 7News in August 2014, becoming a familiar face to viewers across Massachusetts through her reporting on crime, severe weather, sports, breaking news and major local developments.
According to her WHDH biography, Bookman was the first reporter to cover the death of Boston Police Sergeant Dennis Simmonds, who died one year after being shot in the aftermath of the Boston Marathon attacks.
During her time at Channel 7, she also reported on a wide range of high-profile stories, including this summer’s ICE arrests and a boat crash at Logan Airport, the Lindsay Clancy and Brian Walshe murder trials, new evidence connected to Brockton cold cases, and the Brigham and Women’s nurses strike.
Before moving to WHDH, Bookman worked at WCVB in Boston, where she covered major breaking news, including the Boston Marathon bombings as events unfolded and the subsequent arrest of the attackers.
She was also part of the coverage surrounding the capture of notorious Boston gangster James “Whitey” Bulger.
Among the standout moments in her career were her reports on the “Mattapan Massacre” and the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority water main break, both of which earned her Emmy Awards.
Bookman holds a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism and has built a decorated career marked by numerous honors, including a regional Robert E. Murrow Award, three New England Emmys, one Southeastern Emmy, and recognition from the New York State Broadcasters Association and the Associated Press.
Kimberly Bookman at WHDH’s 7News, the channel she is leaving after 12 years
WHDH reporter Kimberly Bookman is seen here during a live on the scene in Boston
She told her fans about her departure in a Facebook post on Sunday, saying: ’12 years. It’s the longest amount of time I’ve ever stayed at any job. Come Tuesday, I will sign off from 7News – WHDH Boston for the last time.’
Fans and colleagues online showed their support and wished Bookman well.
Amaka Ubaka, a 7News anchor wrote on Instagram: ‘Wow congrats on 12 years! You know I’ve always called you the MVP of our station! And those words ring so TRUE!
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‘You are kind, incredibly smart, always had exclusive stories & operate with such compassion with those you interview and encounter. You are a SUPERSTAR and don’t ever forget it’
Fan GJ Smith commented: “Kimberly the GOAT say it ain’t so… I’ll never forget our ‘prom’ shoot years ago. Can’t wait to see the next chapter’
7News anchor Keke Vencill wished Bookman well by writing: ‘I’m so proud to be part of your team, Kimberly. You’re one of the most dedicated journalists in the field, leading with a mindset of community service both at work and outside of it.
‘Wishing you all the best and many blessings in this new chapter!’
Another person added: ‘We will miss seeing you on 7 News, our source of local news. Wish you all the BEST!’
Kimberly Bookman preparing to deliver news to Bostonians
Laura Caso, a coworker of Bookman’s at 7News, reacted: ‘What a career you’ve had. You are such a force. You are a dedicated mentor, an unmatched journalist, and a true friend.
‘Beyond lucky to have learned from you and worked alongside you. Grateful for our dinner dates & talks. I am so excited for YOU!’
Fan Becky Warren said: ‘Wishing you continued happiness and successes, Kimberly! You will be missed.’
Bookman views her time at Channel 7 news as a success, recalling in her post: ‘I always strived to be responsible in my reporting – knowing how important words are during challenging times, breaking news, and on emotional subjects.
‘I trained nearly every reporter who walked through the doors in the last decade… I am proud of my contributions here.’
Bookman went on to explain: ‘This is my choice. I believe the best stories are the ones that keep unfolding. So stay tuned… the next chapter is just beginning!’
What that next chapter will be is unknown. Although, Bookman’s charitable work may provide a clue.
She ran an annual station-wide clothing drive as well as supporting the following non-profit organizations: The Home for Little Wanderers, The Pine Street Inn, Project Bread, The Anti-Defamation League, and Dress for Success.
