East Providence Hall of Fame Honors for Meteorologist T.J. Del Santo

They were celebrating in East Providence over the weekend, and 12 News meteorologist T.J. Del Santo was one of the reasons. Del Santo has a new honor to add to his résumé. He was inducted into the East Providence High School Hall of Fame, joining The MGM Show to talk about it. He is now in the club with Fun 107’s own Michaela Johnson, who was also inducted into the East Providence Hall of Fame back in 2015.

How Did T.J. Del Santo Find Out?

Del Santo was at the Dunkin’ across the street from the television station, about to order a cinnamon raisin bagel and coffee when the nomination email arrived into his email inbox. The hall of fame nomination process is a lone one including letters and debates. He officially learned he would be inducted while he was on vacation in Lake George, New York.

Why Was T.J. Inducted?

It was a little of both sports and media. Del Santo was on the swim team, earned All Division and All State honors, and swam on the relay team. He also ran cross country. However, he thinks the honor originated more from his community work through 12 News, where he is coming up on 30 years next May. "A TV weather job in your hometown is rare," Del Santo said. "I feel very lucky to have been in my hometown my whole career."

When he got to the podium, his first line was a weather pun. “I didn't see this on the radar screen," he said.

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What Was It Like Returning to the New East Providence High School?

It was Del Santo.’s first time exploring the new building. He could not believe the size of the school or the programs. “I hope these students know how lucky they are,” he said. "At six years old, it still has that new car smell."

Who Else Was in the Hall of Fame Class?

In all, five people were inducted, including filmmaker Jennifer Lee, who wrote and directed Frozen and Frozen 2. Lee graduated a year ahead of Del Santo, who was able to catch up with her for a few minutes at the dinner.

"She was so humble and gracious," he said.

READ MORE: 'Frozen' Director Jennifer Lee Named to East Providence High Hall of Fame

The H.O.F. class also included Nate Cahoon, a former local politician whose planning helped create the new school, coach Rob Travers, and Marilyn McDonald, who helped start the soccer program at the school. Cahoon pointed out the common theme was service to the community.

What Does Being a Townie Mean?

The Townie is the official mascot of East Providence High School, and Del Santo wears it proudly. “Once you’re a Townie, you’re always a Townie,” he said.