Avery Escamilla-Wendell

My name is Avery Escamilla-Wendell, I am a Multimedia Journalist in El Paso who understands the power of resilience and strength of marginalized voices. Growing up in the borderland, has instilled in me a passion for shedding light on untold stories, championing diverse perspectives, and sharing the stories of underrepresented communities. I thrive on writing stories that capture the truth about immigration, the U.S. Border Region, and the voices in my community.

Highlights

KERA News • 23rd April 2026

North Texas barbershop is creating a sensory safe environment for neurodivergent kids

In North Texas, Trimmy’s is changing the game for haircuts catered to children who are neurodivergent.Henry “Tribes” Amoloja is a barber for neurodivergent children in Dallas and Richardson.

KERA News • 19th March 2026

SMU, United Methodist Church resolve legal dispute over control of university

Southern Methodist University and the regional conference of the United Methodist Church have reached an agreement to end a legal dispute over control of the school.

KERA News • 18th March 2026

Texas can begin enforcing drag ban amid ongoing lawsuit

A Texas law banning some drag performances in public spaces goes into effect today, though a lawsuit challenging it is ongoing.

KERA News • 16th March 2026

As North Texas school districts turn to virtual options, some hope it will bring back students

School districts across North Texas are rolling out full-time virtual and hybrid learning programs for high school students this fall.

KERA News • 2nd March 2026

UNT students showcase dandyism and Black excellence on last day of Black History Month

The University of North Texas Black Student Union capped off Black History Month with a fashion show highlighting dandyism and Black excellence.

KERA News • 25th February 2026

As some cities cancel DART withdrawal elections, Addison moves ahead

An earlier version of this story misattributed a quote to Randy Smith. It has been corrected to attribute the quote to Chris DeFrancisco.

KERA News • 18th February 2026

Dallas Fire-Rescue expands 'life-saving' blood program

Dallas Fire-Rescue is expanding a blood program officials say has saved dozens of lives in its first year.

KERA News • 5th February 2026

Hutchins city leaders meet to discuss ICE detention center as residents continue opposition

Hutchins city leaders met briefly Wednesday to discuss a proposed immigration facility as residents and local lawmakers gathered to oppose it.