Jackie Schmillen Joins WHO 13 As Contributor
Jackie Schmillen joins WHO 13 as a contributor in Des Moines television return
Longtime Des Moines media personality Jackie Schmillen is returning to local television, joining WHO 13 as an occasional contributor. WHO 13 announced the move on Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, confirming the station had finalized the arrangement earlier in the week on Oct. 27, according to reporting by the Des Moines Register.
Schmillen joins a roster of contributors at the station that includes Michael Admire, Lisa Carponelli, and Amanda Krenz. Her return brings a familiar face back to central Iowa screens after a absence from local news broadcasting.
Roots in central Iowa media and the Iowa National Guard
A native of Cherokee, Iowa, Schmillen previously anchored “Good Morning Iowa” during a tenure at WOI Local 5 that lasted from 2013 to 2022. Before her time at WOI Local 5, she worked at KCCI in Des Moines.
Jackie Schmillen is returning to Des Moines television as an occasional contributor and fill-in anchor. Here's what to know. https://t.co/w8Ja1wJeLe
After leaving local television in 2022, Schmillen was appointed as the director of public affairs for the Iowa National Guard, becoming the first civilian to serve in that role.
WHO 13 News Director Rod Peterson pointed to her deep connections to the state when discussing the addition.
“We often hear from viewers that Iowans value and trust people who have strong roots in Iowa, and Jackie embodies that connection,” Peterson told the Des Moines Register in a statement. “She is a multitalented communicator who serves our community in many ways.”
WHO 13 sets flexible schedule for Schmillen
The station has not established a fixed broadcasting schedule for Schmillen. WHO 13 announced she will contribute to broadcasts and WHO 13+ on an as-needed basis determined by her schedule.
Schmillen made her first appearance back on the air during “Today in Iowa” on Friday, Oct. 23, 2026. Morning meteorologist Megan Salois noted the appearance in a social media post ahead of the station’s formal announcement.
“I have a passion for telling stories. Great stories, community stories,” Schmillen previously told the Des Moines Register in December 2022.