Elena LaQuatra is an accomplished American journalist and television anchor known for her work at WTAE-TV in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She serves as the morning traffic anchor and noon news anchor, having built a notable career characterized by resilience, professionalism, and advocacy. LaQuatra’s journey from a digital content creator to a leading anchor has been marked by significant milestones, personal challenges, and public recognition, making her a respected figure in broadcast journalism.
Table of Contents
Who is Elena LaQuatra?
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 33 years |
| Family/ Parents | Paul LaQuatra (father) and Effie LaQuatra (mother) |
| Sister | Isabella LaQuatra |
| High School | Mt. Lebanon High School in Pennsylvania. |
| Husband/ Spouse/ Partner | Jordan |
| Daughter | Emelina Flora |
| Net Worth | $1 million – $3 million |
| Salary | $72,000 – $178,000 |
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters) |
| Weight Loss | 25 pounds |
Maria LaRosa Net Worth, Meteorologist, Husband, NBC, Weather, Age, Salary, Legs, Parents
Jen Carfagno Salary, Legs, Daughters, Age, Maiden Name, Husband, Net Worth, Wikipedia, Height
Early Life and Background
Elena LaQuatra was born on January 27, 1992, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Growing up in Mt. Lebanon, a suburb of Pittsburgh, she faced the challenge of becoming deaf at the age of four due to bacterial meningitis. Despite this, she overcame her hearing loss with the help of a cochlear implant and years of rehabilitation to develop her spoken language skills proficiently.
Her early life included diverse interests such as percussion music and participation in beauty pageants, where she won titles such as Miss Pennsylvania Outstanding Teen in 2007 and Miss Pennsylvania Teen USA in 2010.
Education
Elena LaQuatra attended Mt. Lebanon High School in Pennsylvania. During her senior year, she discovered her talent for talking and writing, which are key skills for her career as a journalist. LaQuatra pursued higher education at Point Park University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism.
Her academic background laid the foundation for her career in media, providing her with essential skills in reporting, content creation, and journalism ethics. Point Park University, known for its media and communication programs, supported her development into a journalist capable of handling various facets of broadcast news.
Broadcasting Career
Elena LaQuatra began her professional media career at WTAE-TV in 2015, initially as a digital content creator for the station’s “4 the 412” initiative, which focused on digital storytelling and community engagement. She briefly left WTAE for a role as an anchor and reporter at a television station in Erie, Pennsylvania, before returning in 2018 to serve as a general assignment reporter. Over time, she received promotions to more prominent on-air roles, including traffic anchor and noon news anchor, roles she continues to hold with distinction.
LaQuatra’s journalism style is noted for being personable and insightful, drawing from her life experiences to connect with viewers authentically. She is recognized for her versatility, delivering news with clarity and compassion, which resonates well with her audience in the Pittsburgh area.
Personal Life and Advocacy
Elena LaQuatra married her husband Jordan in January 2022 after a relationship that included a proposal in September 2019. Their wedding was delayed nearly a year due to the pandemic but took place at the William Penn Hotel downtown in Pittsburgh. They welcomed their first child, a daughter named Emelina Flora, in September 2024, and there is no public news of another pregnancy since then.
Elena, Jordan, and their daughter Emelina currently reside in the Pittsburgh area, consistent with her longtime connection to the region as she was born and raised in Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania. She is passionate about family life and also enjoys traveling, mentoring young women, and spending time with her chihuahuas.
Beyond journalism, she serves as an ambassador and spokesperson for non-profit organizations, focusing on hearing loss awareness and support for those with disabilities. Her advocacy work includes efforts with the DePaul School and the Starkey Hearing Foundation, where she participates in mission trips promoting hearing aids worldwide.
Awards and Recognition
In 2016, Elena LaQuatra was crowned Miss Pennsylvania USA, adding to her earlier pageant successes. Her professional accolades include winning the 2024 Mid-Atlantic Regional Emmy Award for her work as a morning newscast anchor, an honor that highlights her excellence and impact in regional television journalism. These recognitions underscore her talent and the respect she commands in the broadcasting community.
Notable Challenges and Triumphs
LaQuatra’s hearing loss presents a significant personal and professional challenge, yet she has not allowed it to hinder her ambitions. Gaining a cochlear implant at a young age, she developed strong listening and speech skills, which she credits for her ability to excel in broadcasting. Her story is inspirational to many, symbolizing resilience and determination, and serves as motivation for those with disabilities pursuing careers in media or other fields.
Salary and Net Worth
Elena LaQuatra has successfully built a notable career in journalism that contributed significantly to her net worth, which is estimated to be between $1 million and $3 million as of 2025. Her salary at WTAE is reported to range between approximately $72,000 and $178,000 annually, reflecting her senior position and experience in the field.
LaQuatra’s source of wealth primarily comes from her broadcasting career, including anchoring, reporting, and digital content creation. Beyond her media career, she also serves as an ambassador and Mistress of Ceremonies for various nonprofit organizations and fundraising events, which indirectly supports her professional visibility and earnings. She has a significant social media presence, which can add to her personal brand and potential income through various endorsements or partnerships.
Lifestyle-wise, Elena enjoys traveling, spending time with her family and husband, and mentoring young women. She was crowned Miss Pennsylvania USA in 2016, an accomplishment that helped boost her profile.
Weight Loss
LaQuatra’s weight loss journey included losing about 25 pounds, much of which was muscle. This transformation was recognized by her colleagues and friends, highlighting her commitment to health and fitness. While specific details about her diet or exercise program are not extensively documented, it is known that she values a healthy lifestyle, which likely involves a balanced approach combining proper nutrition and regular workouts. Her career demands an early wake-up routine starting around 1:30 to 2:00 am, which also contributes to her disciplined daily schedule.
Where does Elena LaQuatra live?
LaQuatra lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She is known as a journalist and anchor for WTAE-TV and is originally from Mt. Lebanon, which is a suburb of Pittsburgh, confirming her residence in the Pittsburgh area.
Did Elena LaQuatra WTAE have her baby?
Elena LaQuatra from WTAE has had her baby. She welcomed a baby girl named Emelina Flora in September 2024, as announced by WTAE and confirmed through social media posts congratulating her on the birth.
Is Elena LaQuatra deaf?
Yes, Elena LaQuatra is deaf. She lost her hearing completely after contracting bacterial meningitis at age four. Although she is 100% deaf, she hears with the help of cochlear implants and has built a successful career as a television reporter and anchor at WTAE. Her deafness does not define her abilities; she is an advocate for the deaf community and uses her platform to inspire others.
Is Elena LaQuatra Greek?
Elena LaQuatra is not Greek. She is an American of White ethnicity, born and raised in Pennsylvania.
how old is Elena LaQuatra?
Elena LaQuatra was born in 1992, which makes her about 33 years old in 2025.
Is Elena LaQuatra pregnant again?
As of the latest available information in 2025, Elena LaQuatra is not currently pregnant again. She welcomed her first baby, Emelina Flora, in September 2024.