Claydra Rhodes has been appointed the new 12News KBMT Beaumont 6 and 10pm evening co-anchor with Jordan Williams starting February 25, 2025.
She takes over for Brenda Matute who left the television news business in September 2024.
Here is what Rhodes posted on social:
"Starting tomorrow I’ll be solo anchoring the 4pm newscast, and co-anchoring the 6pm newscast with Jordan Williams.
In the future, I will be joining Jordan as co-anchor at 10pm as well.
I thank God for leading me back to the 409 in 2020 right before I graduated from the University of Houston in 2021. I didn’t know why at the time, but He is showing me that His plans are far greater than anything I can imagine.
When I turned 2 years old my mom made me learn and recite scriptures in front of the church congregation and my dad was right there recording me. My church family has always allowed me to practice public speaking and my Pastor, Rev Crawford, still makes sure I’m doing what God called me to do.
When I began my journey at 12News 2 1/2 years ago all I wanted was for an opportunity and my newsroom managers and colleagues have been beside me every step of the way.
I cannot wait to serve the community that shaped me in this new role."
Rhodes joined 12News in June 2022 through the Tegna Producer in Residence program. She quickly moved from producer to weekend anchor while also serving as a reporter during the week.
A Southeast Texas native and West Orange-Stark High School graduate, Rhodes holds a bachelor's degree in broadcast journalism from the University of Houston.
"Claydra embodies the future of broadcast journalism in Southeast Texas," said News Director Ginny Sweeney. "She brings both grace and deep local insight to the anchor desk, making her an ideal voice for our community. Her natural ability to connect with viewers, combined with her understanding of the region's unique character, makes her an invaluable addition to our evening news team.
"Southeast Texas viewers deserve news anchors who truly understand their community. With Claydra Rhodes joining Jordan Williams, we're proud to offer the only evening news team with deep local roots and genuine connection to the region."
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