Motivation was the center of discussion of a speech given by a television hostess Wednesday night.

WGN-TV hostess Merri Dee spoke to a group of more than 30 students in the Holmes Student Center’s Illinois Room in an appearance during Black Heritage Month.

In her speech, Dee focused on the subject of motivation. She focused on how a person can motivate himself and the results of doing it.

One of Dee’s main points was that people need to make a plan of action when they get up in the morning and take action on their plan during the day.

She said a person can accomplish more if they associate positive things with themselves and practice these positive things, like setting new goals every day.

“You have to assume you have time to do what you’re going to do,” Dee said. “It makes you feel proud you have something to accomplish in life.”

Reflecting on her career, Dee said she has held two jobs for almost all her life. She also said that becoming a jack-of-all- trades through learning what other people did in their jobs had helped keep new opportunities open to her.

She said specializing in one area of training is helpful, but it is important to also learn other aspects in order to keep opportunities open.

Dee currently works at WGN-TV as director of Community Affairs and hosts the program, “Heart of Chicago.” She began her broadcasting career in 1966 as a radio personality and then entered television one year later, starting at WCIU-TV Channel 26.

In 1972, Dee started working for WGN-TV Channel 9 and has worked there ever since. Her broadcasting roles have included host of a talk show and talk music programs, newscaster, staff announcer and editorial spokesperson.

Dee has also been very involved in charity work and serves on the board of several community organizations.