Robert Hanley

Reporter

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Robert Hanley was born and raised in Dallas, Texas and is a recent graduate from the University of North Texas where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism with a concentration in Broadcast and Digital Journalism.

He enjoys singing in his free time and even has written and performed songs of his own. Many of his other hobbies include collecting sports cards and watching/playing sports including soccer, basketball, and disc golf.

Articles

Fueling Young Athletes

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) - Busy families know how tough it can be to keep young athletes fueled throughout their busy days.  From early school mornings to late practices and games, finding quick and…

Hope for Mothers, Help for Babies

CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF) - Foundation House Ministries, a Cleveland-based nonprofit, is sounding the alarm after receiving a record number of calls about babies born addicted to drugs.  Executive Director Suzanne…

Students Start New School Year

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) - Class is officially back in session for Hamilton County students, with schools reopening today, August 6, 2025.  District leaders say more than 45,000 students are returning to…

Human Trafficking Hidden in Plain Sight

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) - Human trafficking is a devastating and hidden crime affecting millions globally.  With an estimated 27.6 million victims, traffickers operate silently, blending into everyday life.  Victims may be found in…

Back-To-School Clothes Shopping Trends

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) - As back-to-school season begins, families are adjusting their spending habits, especially when it comes to clothing.  According to the 2025 Cotton Incorporated Lifestyle Monitor™ Survey, parents expect to…

Chatt Prep Walk Welcomes Students

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) - Chattanooga Preparatory School kicked off the new school year with a powerful tradition known as the Chattanooga 300 Walk. Students walked into the building this morning to…

Expert Advice for Safer Schools

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) - As the new school year begins, leaders from the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) offered expert insight into how schools can better protect students and…

PenaVegas Help Kids Gear Up

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) - As students across the country prepare to return to class, many families are facing an uphill battle.  For households dealing with housing instability, food insecurity, or financial…

Summer Fun Meets Holiday Cheer

HIXSON, Tenn. (WDEF) - Christmas came early to Hixson this weekend as Chester Frost Park transformed into a festive summer wonderland. The free “Christmas in July” event featured more than 30…

Missing Dog Sparks Outcry

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) - A Chattanooga family is sounding the alarm after their 2-year-old Presa Canario, Saint, was allegedly stolen right from their yard.  Sydne-Joie Noel says the incident happened on Tuesday,…

Lake Winnie Awarded Historic Plaque

ROSSVILLE, GA. (WDEF) - Lake Winnepesaukah just earned a national honor.  On Sunday, July 27th, the National Amusement Park Historical Association presented the Chattanooga-area amusement park with a commemorative plaque recognizing…

Fresh Food, Families, and Wellness

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) -- Wellpoint Tennessee, in collaboration with the YMCA Mobile Market, hosted Wellness with Wellpoint Thursday morning in Chattanooga, an event designed to support healthy lifestyles and improve food…

Free Supplies for New Teachers

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) - The Hamilton County Schools Foundation is giving new teachers a head start by offering free classroom supplies this week. The Teacher Supply Hub will be open July…

Clyde Stubblefield Plaque Unveiled

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) - A Chattanooga native made global waves with nothing but sticks, rhythm, and soul.  Miller Park is now permanently honored with a plaque in his honor. Clyde Stubblefield, the…

Lookout Mountain Incline Reopens

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) - After months of waiting, the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway is officially back open.  The Incline is one of Chattanooga’s most visited attractions, offering a scenic climb to the…

Funding Strain on Roads

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) - Tennessee’s roads are under pressure. As more drivers switch to hybrid and electric vehicles, gas tax revenue, the state’s main source for road funding, is slowly drying up.…

Thrills Return to Camp Jordan

EAST RIDGE, Tenn. (WDEF) - Chattanooga’s summer just got a lot more thrilling. The 2025 Thrillville carnival has rolled into Camp Jordan, bringing high-flying rides, classic fair treats, and non-stop family…