Rajah Maples WGEM: Biography, Husband, Age & Career Journey

Rajah Maples: Beyond the Anchor Desk – A Journey of Dedication and Impact

For over two decades, Rajah Maples has been a familiar and trusted face in Tri-States journalism. From reporting on presidential campaigns to chronicling the dramatic Mississippi River floods, her career is a testament to unwavering dedication.

More than just an anchor, Rajah is an Emmy-nominated multi-media journalist, news manager, and a business owner, proving that true journalistic impact stretches far beyond the nightly newscast.

Her move to WGEM/Gray Television in June 2023 was a significant homecoming, cementing her role as a regional media powerhouse. But what shaped this award-winning journalist? Let’s delve into the professional and personal journey of the woman behind the headlines.

The Mid-Missouri Roots: Education and Early Drive

Rajah Maples was born in Missouri on April 30, 1975, making her 50 years old as of 2025. Her lifelong commitment to media and communication began right in her home state.

Her educational background is exceptionally robust, underscoring her commitment to the theoretical and practical foundations of journalism:

• Stephens College: She earned a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication/Media Studies. She remains deeply connected to her alma mater, serving as a Trustee.

• University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou): Her quest for excellence led her to the esteemed Missouri School of Journalism, where she secured a Master’s degree in Journalism.

• Advanced Studies: She continued at the University of Missouri-Columbia, completing 40 hours of doctoral studies focused on media effects and social psychology. This rare depth of academic knowledge distinguishes her on-air work, adding nuance to complex stories.

An anecdote from her early career highlights her drive: Before her first full-time roles, Rajah spent time in the media capital of the world, serving as a Production Assistant for NBC’s The Today Show in the Greater New York City Area in 1997. This early exposure to national news production was a springboard for her future success.

KHQA: The 17-Year Defining Chapter

For nearly two decades, the name Rajah Maples KHQA was synonymous with local news. Starting as a college intern, she grew with the station, eventually becoming a seasoned anchor for the crucial 5 p.m., 6 p.m., and 10 p.m. newscasts.

This lengthy tenure was marked by both professional growth and impactful reporting:

• Executive Leadership: She climbed the ranks, taking on roles as an Anchor, Executive Producer, and News Manager. This transition from reporter to leader involved supervising junior staff and guiding editorial content—a true testament to her expertise.

• High-Stakes Coverage: Her reporting portfolio includes major regional events like the extensive Mississippi River flooding, which requires a blend of real-time urgency and long-term community understanding.

• Presidential Encounters: She utilized her position in a swing-state region to interview major political figures, including then-First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton and then-Vice President-elect Joe Biden during their presidential campaigns in Iowa.

Her departure in July 2022 marked the end of an era at KHQA, prompting many in the community to wonder: “What happened to Rajah Maples on WGEM?”

The Move to WGEM: A Fresh Start and New Challenge

The question, “Where is Rajah Maples now?” was answered in June 2023 when she officially joined WGEM/Gray Television. This move to a competing station was a dynamic shift for a journalist of her stature.

At WGEM, Rajah embraced the dual role of Anchor & Multi-Media Journalist (MMJ). This position requires not only presenting the news but also often gathering, shooting, and editing the stories herself. This boots-on-the-ground work showcases her versatility, ensuring that her connection to the community remains hands-on and direct.

“A great journalist isn’t just a reader; they’re a storyteller, a technician, and a public servant all rolled into one.”

Her current work is focused on delivering timely and informative stories, particularly local government developments that directly affect Quincy residents.

Accolades and Societal Contributions

Maples’ dedication has been repeatedly recognized by her peers and industry associations.

• Emmy Nomination: A significant milestone in her career.

• Iowa Broadcast News Association: Multiple awards, including a third-place award for spot news coverage in the 2012 News Excellence Contest.

• Illinois Broadcast Association: Recipient of a Silver Dome award.

Beyond her daily broadcast duties, Rajah is an educator and entrepreneur:

• Teaching Future Journalists: She previously served as an Adjunct Instructor at Culver-Stockton College, teaching courses like media writing and basic speech, actively shaping the next generation of communicators.

• Rajah Maples Media Productions: As the founder and owner of her own media production company, she demonstrates an entrepreneurial spirit, utilizing her decades of experience to create compelling content outside the newsroom.

Personal Life: Rajah Maples and Her Husband, Zach Levenson

The professional life of a journalist is often public, but Rajah has carefully guarded the privacy of her family.

The most sought-after information by fans is about her private world:

• Husband: Rajah is happily married to Zach Levenson.

• Their Story: The couple met while working in the local news industry, a foundation of shared passion and understanding. While they prefer to keep details about Zach’s occupation private, a heartwarming anecdote is their proposal story, which took place during a live broadcast—a blending of their public careers and personal commitment.

• Home Life: Rajah and Zach reside in Quincy, Illinois, sharing their home with their cat, Frank.

Born in Missouri in 1975, Rajah is an American citizen. While she keeps details of her ethnicity and immediate family private, her focus remains on her work and community involvement.

Standing at 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m) and known for her polished on-screen appearance, her career longevity speaks more to her character and dedication than any physical measure.

Beyond the Anchor Desk: Teacher, Entrepreneur, Trustee

Rajah doesn’t clock out at sign-off.

• Educator: Served as adjunct instructor at Culver-Stockton College, teaching media writing and speech.

• Entrepreneur: Founder of Rajah Maples Media Productions, helping others craft their messages.

• Community Leader: Trustee at her alma mater, Stephens College, giving back to the next generation of communicators.

In a world of fleeting influencers, Rajah builds lasting impact.

Rajah Maples in 2025: Stronger Than Ever

As we hit late 2025, Rajah Maples – now 50 – shows no signs of slowing. She’s moderating debates, chasing stories, and inspiring young journalists.

In a fragmented media landscape, anchors like Rajah remind us why local news matters. She’s not just reading the teleprompter. She’s your neighbor, telling your stories with honesty and heart.

What’s next? More hard-hitting reports? A bigger role in production? Or mentoring the next wave at Stephens College?

Her WGEM Colleagues (2025 Team Highlights):

• Daniel Winn (co-anchor and debate co-moderator)

• Natalie Will (morning anchor veteran)

• Blake Sammann (sports and news contributor)

• Wes Shelor (reporter, frequent co-byline)

Sources:

• Stephens College: (Verification of Bachelor’s degree and Trustee role).

• University of Missouri School of Journalism: (Verification of Master’s degree and Doctoral studies).

• WGEM and KHQA Station Profiles/Archives: (Verification of career timeline and specific roles).

• Iowa Broadcast News Association/Illinois Broadcast Association Records: (Verification of awards).

• LinkedIn profile and professional history