Darcy Pohland (1961-2010)

We Remember Darcy Pohland

Darcy Pohland, a 17-year member, Twin Cities newsperson and an inspiration to many, died in her sleep on March 5. She was 48.

Following an accident in college, Pohland was paralyzed from the chest down, but after a short five-month rehabilitation period, she finished her education at the University of Minnesota while living in her own apartment on campus.

She had interned at the WCCO-TV Washington DC bureau before her accident and after graduation she began working as a dispatcher at the station’s office in downtown Minneapolis. Pohland worked her way up from dispatch to planning editor, and in 1994, she made her first onscreen appearance as the station’s community news reporter.

CLICK HERE TO SEE WCCO’S PHOTO GALLERY OF DARCY’S LIFE & WORK

“Darcy Pohland was a valuable member of both the broadcast news and disability communities,” said Anita Hollander, National Co-Chair of the tri-union I AM PWD campaign and AFTRA National Board Member. “By refusing to let her quadriplegia be the sole focus of her life and work, she represented the way that we in the disability community wish to be perceived.  And while she will be missed, we hope her example will forge new paths for those who follow.”

Pohland was more than a good reporter – she was a trailblazer and an asset to her community. She is survived by her two brothers.

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