
A blind baker, a community builder and two unstoppable dancers
A blind baker launches a business, a former photojournalist creates community libraries, and two retirees hit the stage.
Watch CBS News
David Begnaud is a CBS News contributor and previously served as the lead national correspondent for "CBS Mornings," based in New York City. He joined the network in 2015 and his reporting — featured across all CBS News broadcasts and platforms, including "CBS Evening News," "48 Hours," "CBS Sunday Morning" and CBS News 24/7 — has earned him some of journalism's most prestigious awards.
One of Begnaud's most notable assignments was his coverage of Hurricane Maria when it hit Puerto Rico in October 2017. He spent more time covering Puerto Rico's recovery than any other network news correspondent, traveling to the island countless times and breaking numerous significant stories. His distinctive, unmatched reporting resulted in government action, and throughout the crisis, he delivered sustained coverage on all platforms — especially on social media. His coverage of Hurricane Maria earned him the prestigious George Polk Award for public service in 2018, which was the first time given to a journalist since 1978. The award, as the nominating committee states, places "a premium on investigative work that is original, resourceful and thought-provoking." Begnaud also received Radio Television Digital News Association's First Amendment Leadership Award for his significant contribution to the protection of the First Amendment and freedom of the press.
At CBS News, Begnaud covered major news stories around the world including the shooting at Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, Florida, the terrorist attack at the Inland Regional Center in San Bernardino, California, and the devastating earthquake that hit Ecuador in April of 2016 leaving hundreds dead and thousands injured. In the summer of 2017, he covered Hurricane Harvey in Houston, Hurricane Irma in Florida, and Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico. Begnaud's coverage of important national and international stories is also featured prominently on CBS News 24/7.
Prior to CBS, Begnaud covered a wide variety of national breaking news from weather to crime for several news organizations. Previously, he created and reported for "Newsbreaker" at ORA-TV, a social media platform for current events and breaking news and was a contributing correspondent for "Entertainment Tonight," the No. 1 syndicated entertainment newsmagazine in the world.
His career began in local news at KLFY-TV as an unpaid "teen reporter" while in high school, in his home state of Louisiana. Upon graduation, KLFY-TV hired him as a full-time reporter. He later became the weekend morning and evening news anchor. During the week he attended college, and graduated from the University of Louisiana, Lafayette in 2005.
A blind baker launches a business, a former photojournalist creates community libraries, and two retirees hit the stage.
David Begnaud shares the stories of Brian Flynn, a rare double organ donor, and Rachel Bee, a teen who created a sweatshirt to help fellow patients.
Texas custodian Jessica Caldwell earned four degrees while working nights and raising four kids. A local mailman adopted a dog from his old route.
A man raised $14,000 to help a teenager replace her car after a wreck, while two young brothers donate chess winnings to help a child.
This edition of "Dear David" shares the stories of Ed Bieber, a diver who recovered phones after a tragic accident, and two Louisiana students who support their friend.
Deb Garoui, a speech and debate coach in Texas, was honored at the National Speech and Debate Tournament for supporting low-income students.
The new documentary "Speak." follows a group of high school students as they compete in speech and debate.
After her airport interview with David Begnaud reached millions, 102-year-old Beatrice Stieber is adjusting to viral fame.
Dr. Bryant Lin, who has stage 4 lung cancer, created a Stanford class that follows his journey, offering students an unfiltered look at what it means to live through terminal illness.
CBS News recently gave some good news to a special group of teachers across the country: they are being inducted into the National Teacher Hall of Fame.
CBS News contributor David Begnaud spoke with Gus Walz, the son of Gov. Tim Walz, about his viral moment supporting his dad at last year's DNC, the response he's received and how he overcomes challenges.
Roberta Bell thought she was visiting the boy she raised from birth. Instead, she was celebrated in court during a surprise adoption.
Kevin Nazemi's persistence led to an interview with President Bill Clinton, setting him on a path and inspiring a lifelong bond that continues to change lives.
When The Video Stop closed, owner David Kraning built "Christina's Corner" to preserve a daily routine for one loyal customer.
On a stop in Greenville, South Carolina, CBS News contributor David Begnaud meets two young girls on a heartfelt mission to spread joy and resilience.