The WAOK Morning Show is embarking on a powerful new chapter, with Dr. Dorothea (Dee) Dawkins-Haigler as the permanent host starting Monday, December 23rd. Now rebranded as "Wake Up With Dee!", this exciting new show will air every weekday from 7 AM to 10 AM on News and Talk 1380 WAOK.
Dr. Dee Dawkins-Haigler is no stranger to leadership, influence, and creating change. As an ordained minister, college educator, community activist, and political strategist, Dr. Dee has spent her life dedicated to public service and breaking down barriers. Her 8 ½ years of service as a Georgia State Representative (2008-2017) were marked by her leadership as Chair of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus and Chair of the Georgia Women’s Legislative Caucus. Dee’s influence extended to national politics where she also served as Chaplain for the National Black Caucus of State Legislators and was the National Director of Regional Coordinators for the National Organization of Black Elected Legislative Women (NOBEL Women).
Her expertise and dynamic personality have earned her a place as a sought-after media commentator on major networks such as FOX News, ABC, CBS, NBC, News Max, and BBC. Dr. Dee is also the bestselling author of "A Message to Our Daughters: Turning Trials into Triumphs" and "Empower Her: Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Development", books that are not just words but catalysts for transformation, with all proceeds supporting micro-grantsfor marginalized women and girls in Africa and the Caribbean.
Through her consulting firm, DDH & Associates, and as the founder of TIME 1000, Dr. Dee has helped over 1,000 women and minorities secure elected office and board appointments. Her global work includes training women from countries such as Liberia, Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa on issues such as gender equity, entrepreneurship, education, and political engagement.
Dr. Dee’s global advocacy continues through her leadership of the Organization of World Leaders (OWL, Inc.), where she serves as the President and Chief Ambassador to the United Nations. She’s working on initiatives that promote economic sustainability and growth in Africa and its diaspora, positioning her as a leader with both a local and global impact. Additionally, as the organizer of the Minority Cannabis Coalition (MCC), Dr. Dee is championing equity and access in the cannabis industry, dismantling barriers in an often overlooked space.
Dr. Dee is also known for her deep commitment to social justice. She made history as the youngest and first African American Chair of the Juvenile Parole Board in South Carolina, where she fought for the rights of children impacted by poverty and systemic injustice. Her advocacy against human trafficking, domestic violence, and teen dating violence led to her producing the hard-hitting documentary "Black Girls Die Too: The Back Page Murders", which exposed the dangers of online human trafficking and contributed to the shutdown of the infamous Backpage website. Dr. Dee's ongoing advocacy is reflected in her book "Black Girls Die Too", which highlights the intersection of violence, health disparities, and the systemic issues Black women and girls face.
With a strong academic foundation, Dr. Dee holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (South Carolina State University), a Master of Public Administration (Kentucky State University), a Master of Divinity (Turner Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center), and is a Ph.D/ABD in Political Science at Clark Atlanta University. She has received six honorary Doctoral Degrees ranging from Doctor of Humane Letters to Doctor of Ministry, underscoring her commitment to lifelong learning and leadership.
As the permanent host of "Wake Up With Dee!", Dr. Dee will continue her legacy of empowerment and change, bringing a bold and dynamic approach to The WAOK Morning Show. Her new show promises to deliver an engaging blend of inspirational stories, timely news, empowering interviews, and conversations that challenge the status quo. Whether it’s tackling the latest in politics, social justice, or personal empowerment, Dr. Dee’s fearless leadership will make WAOK Morning Show a must-listen every weekday morning.
Dr. Dee’s show will also feature special segments celebrating the holiday season, giving listeners an uplifting start to their day. Her passion for economic justice, gender equity, and community building will be evident as she discusses relevant issues and provides thought-provoking content to keep you informed, engaged, and motivated.
Tune in every weekday from 7 AM to 10 AM on 1380 WAOK, or download the Audacy app to listen anywhere. "Wake Up With Dee!" is not just a show—it’s a movement. Don’t miss the powerful voice of Dr. Dee Dawkins-Haigler as she leads the way for empowering mornings.