Cynthia Bruno is the Morning Show News anchor at WCIA 3 News and host of Current, a news show for women. She is also the co-founder of Girls Go For It, a non-profit that works to develop the leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, and professional abilities of girls. She (sometimes) likes running, (always) enjoys checking out new restaurants, and loves to travel.
See why we think Cynthia Bruno is a Chambana Mom to Know
Q: Welcome to motherhood! What has surprised you the most since you had your son?
Sometimes it’s like a truck-load of love comes from out of nowhere and plows me over when I least expect it. When we got his vaccinations, I was the one who left the doctor’s office crying, not him. I wasn’t prepared for that.
Q: OK, we have to ask this … You are very fashion conscious, and we got to watch your (very stylish) pregnancy on TV. What advice do you have for women when it comes to maternity fashion?
First, thank you. I tried to find clothes with a lot of stretch that could grow with me. Most of what I wore wasn’t maternity (except for pants, because … obviously). Instead, I found a lot of dresses in very forgiving fabrics and sized up as needed. That, and … maternity Spanx.
Q: More broadly — what was it like on your end to share your pregnancy and birth with your TV audience?
It was great, when I felt all glowy and rested. But everyone got to see the very unglamorous “other side” too. One day in the studio, I got so hot I had to take my blazer off mid-show and I had multiple fans going under the desk to stay cool. I felt like a sweaty pregnant mess, and there was no hiding it!
Q: What is the best piece of advice you received — and used — after your son was born?
Enjoy it.
Q: What is an activity or place (or things, ha) in Champaign-Urbana you are most looking forward to taking or doing with your son?
I’m really looking forward to doing an Illinois Marathon race with him in the jogging stroller.
Q: In the fall, you and some friends started a new program to inspire girls. Where did you get the idea for Girls Go For It?
As mentors, we were looking for some after-school programs for our mentees that focused on professional development and career goal-setting. When we didn’t find any, we decided to start one ourselves! We wanted to make sure there was a program in the community that focused on developing the confidence and leadership abilities of girls, so that when they grow up they feel empowered to go after any career they want.
Q: How can others get involved with Girls Go For It, either as participants or to volunteer?
We’d love to bring Girls Go For It to more students in central Illinois! To find out more about bringing the program to your school, you should email us at girlsgoforitinfo@gmail.com. Additionally, if you want to help us inspire these young girls, we are currently seeking volunteers for our after-school program. It’s on Mondays from 2:15-4:15 p.m. Shoot us an email and we’ll get you all set up to start making a difference.
Q: Tell me something most people don’t know about you.
I’m not afraid of spiders or rats, but you know what really freaks me out? Walking sticks. If you’ve never seen one, be glad.