Susan Koeppen Biography: WPXI, Age, Career, Husband & More

Susan Koeppen Biography: Award-Winning Journalist at WPXI-TV

Susan Koeppen is an accomplished journalist currently working for WPXI-TV. She anchors Channel 11 News at 4 p.m. and the Breaking News Desk for Channel 11 News at 5 p.m. She joined WPXI in August 2021. With a career spanning several decades, Susan has earned a reputation for her dedication to delivering accurate and compelling news stories.

Prior to joining WPXI, she worked at KDKA-TV in Pittsburgh as a consumer reporter, where she gained widespread recognition for her investigative journalism. Susan’s work has been recognized with multiple awards, including Emmy Awards, underscoring her impact in the field of journalism

Early Life

• Hometown: Susan was born and raised in Albany, New York.
• Family Influence: Her father, a German immigrant and WWII refugee, and her mother, a “Jersey girl,” instilled in her the values of hard work, honesty, and helping others.

Education

• University: She graduated from Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Public Communications.

Career

• Early Career: Susan began her journalism career at WKTV in Utica, NY, and WHEC in Rochester, NY.
• CBS News: She served as a consumer correspondent for CBS News’ The Early Show, where she broke significant stories, including the largest crib recall in U.S. history.
• Pittsburgh: Before joining WPXI-TV, she anchored newscasts for KDKA-TV in Pittsburgh.
• Current Role: Susan is currently an anchor at WPXI-TV, where she joined in August 2021.

Advocacy

• Health Advocacy: After surviving a sudden cardiac arrest in 2011, Susan became a national spokesperson for the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation and works closely with the American Heart Association.

Age

Susan Koeppen was born on April 16, 1972, which makes her 52 years old. Her zodiac sign is Aries. She is of Caucasian ethnicity and holds American nationality.

Here are some details about her:

• Age: Susan Koeppen was born in 1972, making her 52 years old as of 2024.
• Zodiac Sign: Since her exact birthdate isn’t publicly available, her zodiac sign isn’t known.
• Ethnicity: She is of mixed ethnicity, with a German-immigrant father and a mother from New Jersey.
• Nationality: Susan Koeppen is American.

Husband

Susan Koeppen is married to Dr. Jim O’Toole, a plastic surgeon based in Pittsburgh. The couple has been together for several years and shares a strong bond. They are also proud parents to three children.

Dr. Jim O’Toole is a highly regarded plastic surgeon based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He has over 20 years of experience in the field and is known for his compassionate and patient-centered approach. Dr. O’Toole specializes in breast reductions and breast cancer care, and he is double board-certified by both the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Dr. O’Toole completed his medical education at Saint Louis University School of Medicine and further specialized in plastic surgery at the University of Pittsburgh. He also trained in New York City with the Long Island Plastic Surgical Group, where he developed advanced techniques in breast reconstruction.

In addition to his private practice, Dr. O’Toole is the Director of the Wound Care Program at UPMC Shadyside. His innovative surgical techniques and dedication to patient care have made him a prominent figure in the field of plastic surgery.

Height, Weight, Measurements

Susan Koeppen stands at a height of 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) and weighs approximately 56 kg (123 lbs). Her body measurements are 33-28-33 inches. She has beautiful grey eyes and blonde hair.

Career and Background

Susan Koeppen began her career in journalism after graduating from Syracuse University with a degree in Broadcast Journalism. She has held various roles in the industry, starting as a reporter and working her way up to anchoring positions.

Susan spent a significant portion of her career at KDKA-TV, where she was well-known for her consumer reporting and investigative stories. She joined WPXI-TV as the 4 p.m. news anchor, continuing her commitment to journalism and her community.

Susan Koeppen Heart Attack

Susan Koeppen experienced a sudden cardiac arrest in November 2011 while training for a half-marathon. She collapsed during a run, and fortunately, two medical students nearby performed CPR until paramedics arrived.

Challenges Faced After Surviving Cardiac Arrest

1. Physical Recovery:

   • Surgery: Susan underwent surgery to repair a damaged mitral valve, which was identified as the cause of her cardiac arrest.
   • Rehabilitation: She participated in cardiac rehabilitation to regain her strength and improve her heart health.

2. Emotional and Mental Health:

   • Anxiety and Fear: Surviving such a traumatic event led to anxiety and fear about her health and future.
   • Lifestyle Changes: Susan had to adopt a healthier lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, to prevent future cardiac issues.

3. Advocacy and Awareness:

   • Public Speaking: Susan became a national spokesperson for the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation and works closely with the American Heart Association to raise awareness about heart health.
   • Education: She uses her platform to educate others about the importance of CPR training and recognizing the signs of cardiac arrest.

Susan’s resilience and dedication to advocacy have turned her personal challenges into a mission to help others. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of heart health and the impact of timely medical intervention.

Here are some notable anchors and reporters at WPXI-TV:

Cara Sapida

• Cara Sapida: Reporter who joined WPXI-TV in April 200
• David Johnson: A veteran anchor who has been with WPXI-TV for over three decades. He co-anchors the evening newscasts.
• Lisa Sylvester: Co-anchors the evening newscasts alongside David Johnson. She joined WPXI-TV in 2013 and has a background in national news.
• Gordon Loesch: Anchors the morning newscasts. He has been with WPXI-TV since 2004 and has covered major stories both locally and nationally.
• Amy Hudak: An Emmy award-winning journalist who joined WPXI-TV in June 2019. She previously worked at WTNH-TV in New Haven, Connecticut.
• Vanessa Freeman: A morning news anchor and reporter who joined WPXI-TV in April 2020. She has also worked at Cheddar Inc. in New York.
• Hazel Sanchez: An anchor and reporter who has been with WPXI-TV for several years.

Net Worth and Salary

Susan Koeppen’s estimated net worth is around $2 million, accumulated through her extensive career in journalism. Her salary at WPXI-TV is not publicly disclosed but is believed to be in line with industry standards for experienced news anchors.

Is Susan Koeppen Married?

Yes, Susan Koeppen is married to Dr. James O’Toole, a plastic surgeon. The couple tied the knot on August 18, 2000. They have three children together: one daughter and two sons.

How Old Is Susan Koeppen?

Susan Koeppen is 52 years old, having been born on April 16, 1972.

Where Is Susan Koeppen or Is She Still Working at WPXI-TV?

Susan Koeppen is still working at WPXI-TV. She anchors Channel 11 News at 4 p.m. and also handles the Breaking News Desk for Channel 11 News at 5 p.m. Susan Koeppen joined WPXI-TV in August 2021 and has been a prominent figure there since. She continues to be a prominent figure in the Pittsburgh news community, bringing her expertise and experience to the station.