"The definition of “empower” is to be given power. You don’t need to be given power, you already have it. You just need to learn how to use it."-Tori Dunlap

Vanessa J. Cheeks

I am a communications professional currently providing public affairs support
for the City of Rochester's PAB.

In another life I was an award-winning broadcast news producer at WROC-TV with an Edward R. Murrow award for producing breaking news coverage or Rochester's BLM protests.

I am also a freelance reporter.

I've written about Rochester's homelessness epidemic, mental health advocacy
and covered Rochester's Black Lives Matter protests and criminal justice reform.
My articles have appeared in the Rochester City Newspaper, Rochester Beacon,
Open Mic Magazine, Rochester Women Magazine and more.

In my little spare time ( I like to keep busy!) I volunteer with the Rochester Civil Rights Park. The RCRP is a group of dedicated volunteers working to preserve the city's rich history of social justice reform by interviewing people who lived through the race riots of the 1960's. I use my interview skills to speak with subjects and catalog their stories for generations to come. I also copyedit donation bricks for people supporting the parks creation.

Resume Availible Upon Request

What I'm Doing Now

I am currently the Deputy Chief of Public Information at the Police Accountability Board

Write

I am the voice of the PAB staff and board members. I help author statements, press releases, and reports that help shape the message of the agency.

Organize

It is my job to organize any press conferences, and interviews that PAB staff might do with the media. This requires me to have strong relationships with reporters and a keen understanding of what makes a story.

Create

Part of my job is to also engage the community. I create vibrant brochures and promotional items that educate people on what the PAB does and how we can help the people of Rochester.

A MESSAGE TO THE KIDS

October1, 2021

I consider myself to be a storyteller and this project is one of my favorite stories I’ve told. In addition to the interesting and thought-provoking subject, the production of this video was one of the most interesting and unique experiences I’ve had as a reporter. I also got to live out my childhood dream of becoming a Muppet thanks to Adam Chodak.

Watch the Full Video

A CALL FOR CHANGE

September 5, 2020

This video taken during a protest against police brutality in Rochester following the death of Daniel Prude. I covered the event, following the protestors as they moved through downtown Rochester, N.Y. In addition to protestors, members of the press were overcome by the tear gas, and pepper balls used by the RPD.