Tori Carmen ’06

When Tori Carmen ’06 began her freshman year at Marist High School in 2002, she was part of a trailblazing moment as a member of the school’s first co-ed class. “It was nerve-racking at first, walking into what had traditionally been an all-boys school,” she said. “But it was also an incredible opportunity.”

That early experience of stepping into unfamiliar territory and helping shape a new chapter at Marist proved to be a defining theme in her life. Years later, Tori would find herself doing something similar as a young woman entering the male-dominated world of sports journalism. In both cases, she faced the unknown with grit, independence, and a sense of purpose.

A lifelong athlete, Tori played club soccer starting in fourth grade and continued her athletic journey at Marist. As one of the first female student-athletes at the school, she joined the varsity soccer team as a freshman and also played volleyball. During her junior year, she helped launch the poms and dance team. “Being part of the first group of girls opened doors that shaped my confidence. It taught me not to be afraid to try something new.”

Inside the classroom, she credits Mr. Dignan’s journalism elective and Mr. Malito’s English class for nurturing her love of storytelling. Her passion for sports and media was also influenced by her father, a high school English teacher and football coach, who inspired her early on.

After graduating from Indiana University with a degree in sport communication and broadcast journalism, Tori began her career in Wyoming. She moved frequently, with stints in Ohio, Florida, New York, and now South Carolina. Along the way, she transitioned from sports reporting to anchoring the evening news.

“The nature of the business means you move often, and with each move, you grow. Your dreams and goals shift,” she explained. “Once I got a taste of the anchor desk, I realized how much I loved it.”

As the Evening Anchor at Fox Carolina, Tori has covered everything from Clemson football’s National Championship appearance to presidential elections, natural disasters like Hurricane Helene, and community-driven stories of hope and advocacy. “I’ll always have a soft spot for sports, but my favorite stories are the ones that highlight meaningful people, places, and small businesses. That’s where local journalism makes its biggest impact.”

In early 2025, Tori’s life changed suddenly when she experienced a seizure and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Initially thought to be non-cancerous, the tumor was removed, but later revealed cancerous cells. She took a step back from the news desk to focus on treatment at Northwestern Hospital in Chicago.

“At first I kept it private while I navigated next steps. But viewers started reaching out, and the support was overwhelming,” she said. “I also felt like it was important to share my story in case it could help someone else recognize symptoms and speak up.”

Throughout her recovery, Tori has leaned on her faith, describing the experience as both humbling and transformative. “I’ve always been someone who needs control and routine, but this season taught me to slow down, take more time, and give myself grace. Letting faith lead has been everything.”

Now in remission, she continues to receive messages from people who found strength in her story. “I’ve heard from others with similar diagnoses who said they made appointments because of what I shared. That makes it worth it.”

Tori met her husband Jeremy in Greenville and they recently got married before her surgery. After six years, she renewed her contract at Fox Carolina and they hope to start a family in the city they love. They enjoy coffee and antique shops, concerts, walks with their dogs Maximus and Moose, and visits from family.

Chicago will always feel like home, especially with regular trips back for family visits and of course, Fox’s or Aurelio’s Pizza. “Jeremy isn’t from the Southside of Chicago, so he’s a Lou Malnati’s deep-dish guy,” she joked.

She still feels closely tied to her Marist roots and recently had a chance encounter with Brother Rich during a visit to her parents. “Seeing him was such a great full-circle moment – I recognized him instantly.”

Looking back, Tori says her high school self would be proud of the life she’s built and the perspective she’s gained. “Work is important, but it’s not everything,” she said. Success means something different to her now.

Her advice to current Marist students is simple. “Ask questions. Don’t be embarrassed to ask for help. Find a mentor. And keep going.”

As for what’s next? Tori is focused on doing the work she loves, enjoying life in Greenville, and embracing this next chapter with faith and gratitude.