Vanessa is a California native. She moved to Utah just four short years ago when she met and fell in love with Army SSG Paul Cheney. She has three perfect step-children and a zoo full of animals at home. Vanessa began her college career majoring in theatre arts, but quickly came to realize her passion for community, politics, and altruism. Inevitably, she majored in the political sciences and minored in communications. She
involved herself in many civic and community minded organizations along with the honor of receiving "Key to the City" honors in five major California cities including Sacramento and Los Angeles. In 2001 she won President Clinton's community service award for co-founding the “I Am Smart” program, which raises awareness about learning differences. She co-authored a book, Jenni, lovingly titled after her older sister, who lived and survived with a learning disability when there were no special programs for her. The program was later recognized by the National Unicorn Children's Foundation. After working in the California State Senate and other political arenas, Vanessa concluded that she needed both politics and the arts in her life. Vanessa enjoys juggling motherhood, sharing household duties, politics and current events and being a headshot and fashion photographer with the exciting world of entertainment. As a member of The Actors Equity Association she enjoys the thrill of live theatre as well as the excitement of being on a film or commercial set. Vanessa is excited to be the co-host of a show that can truly make a difference in the lives of both women and men. A veteran to hosting, Vanessa has stood side by side with such hi-profile figures as former Los Angeles mayor, Richard Riordan, current L.A. mayor Antonio Viaragosa, and child activist and celebrity Alfrie Woodard, to name a few. With that said, she is really just a down to earth gal who loves to lounge in her husbands Army sweat pants and watch basketball.