Andrew Gillfillan
News DirectorAndrew Gillfillan is the News Director at WKAR News, overseeing all news coverage for the public media station serving Michigan’s Capital Region. He leads the newsroom with a focus on stories that go beyond the headlines, reporting that adds depth, context, and real-world impact for the communities WKAR serves.
A West Michigan native, Andrew brings more than 25 years of experience in television and digital journalism. He has helped lead newsrooms in Lansing, Grand Rapids, Indianapolis, Detroit, Houston, San Francisco, and most recently Miami. Over the course of his career, he has covered major national and regional events, including hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes, earthquakes, and the days-long memorial coverage following the death of President Gerald R. Ford.
Andrew believes strong journalism is not about chasing competitors, but about earning trust and helping audiences understand why stories matter and how decisions made today affect their lives tomorrow. At WKAR, his emphasis is on enterprise reporting, accountability, and connecting issues across communities throughout Mid-Michigan.
A graduate of Central Michigan University, Andrew is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of journalists. He enjoys working closely with Michigan State University journalism students and takes pride in developing WKAR interns, helping them build strong reporting skills, editorial judgment, and a clear sense of purpose in public service journalism.
After more than a decade working out of state, Andrew is proud to be back in Michigan near his family. He has three nieces and is grateful to once again call the state home while leading a newsroom rooted in impact, curiosity, and community.
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A statewide tracker of Michigan data center moratoria, House bills, utility decisions and electric grid impacts.
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A Valentine’s Day fire damaged Mason’s Tipsy Nickel Bar & Grille, prompting a multi-department response and an outpouring of community support online.
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Winter utility bills are climbing across Mid-Michigan. A colder January and recent rate increases are part of the equation. This story breaks down what changed and what could happen next.
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Several major Mid-Michigan school districts are closing Friday as dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills are expected early Friday morning.