Dana Perino: A Life in Politics, Journalism, and Advocacy

Dana Marie Perino was born on May 9, 1972, in Evanston, Wyoming. She grew up in Denver, Colorado, where she developed a keen interest in politics and communications. Her Italian immigrant heritage, through her paternal great-grandparents, instilled in her a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for cultural diversity.

Perino attended Ponderosa High School in Parker, Colorado, before pursuing higher education at Colorado State University Pueblo, where she earned a bachelor's degree in mass communications with minors in political science and Spanish. During her time at the university, she honed her skills as a member of the forensics team and gained practical experience working at KTSC-TV and KCCY-FM. She furthered her education by obtaining a master's degree in public affairs reporting from the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS), where she also worked as a daily reporter covering the Illinois Capitol for CBS affiliate