MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Zaria Oates has joined the ABC24 Team as a Multi-Skilled Journalist.
She graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a degree in Journalism and certificate in Artificial Intelligence. In her time at OU, Zaria worked as a reporter on Capitol Hill, for Gaylord News, The OU Daily, Oklahoma News Report (PBS) and OU Nightly, OU’s award-winning student newscast. She has covered a wide range of stories in the Norman, Oklahoma community, most notably Julius Jones’ execution process and ultimate granting of clemency. She’s also covered the medical marijuana laws in Oklahoma, Congressman Markwayne Mullins’ disappearance during the removal of troops in Afghanistan and the annual March on Washington in DC.
Zaria was OU's National Association of Black Journalists President and Vice President of Public Relations as well as a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, Oklahoma College Broadcasters and the NBCU Academy.
Zaria began her undergraduate education at Christopher Newport University in Newport News, VA, studying Communication and Human Rights and Conflict Resolution. She was the Vice President of Membership Development for the Student Government Association, a founder of the Multicultural Inclusiveness Board, and a REACH leader for the Charleston, South Carolina spring break trip to volunteer at Lowcountry Orphan Relief and WINGS for Kids.
Zaria grew up a military child so she’s lived in a few different states but is new to Memphis and open to any recommendations in the city. In her free time she loves a new movie recommendation or a Netflix/Hulu/HBO Max show and intramural sports like volleyball, basketball or softball!