FOX News host Dana Perino recently left a heartfelt comment on her assistant’s social media post, showing just how much admiration she has for her young protégé.

The rising talent, Kate DePetro, has quickly climbed the ranks at the network—thanks in part to Perino’s guidance and encouragement.

After just a few brief encounters, Dana Perino offered Kate DePetro a highly sought-after assistant role on her team — a move that would mark the beginning of DePetro’s fast-rising career in the world of broadcast journalism.

DePetro recently shared a proud moment on Instagram, posting a photo of herself standing behind the iconic White House press briefing podium. In her caption, she tagged her mentor and boss, writing:

“@danaperino, how do I look at the podium?” She added, “What a wonderful trip to D.C. I am so thankful & it was an adventure I’ll never forget!” with a heart emoji added.

Instagram / katedepetro
Perino, clearly impressed, responded to the post with a single word that said it all: “Brilliant!!”

Over on TikTok, where DePetro posts under the handle @katedepetro, she shared a behind-the-scenes look at how she secured her position with the FOX News star.

How did DePetro get the job
Though she initially studied and worked in public relations, Kate DePetro shared that it was her father’s career as a local news reporter that ultimately inspired her to pivot toward journalism.

Her big break came through a sorority connection, which led her to an opening at Fox & Friends—a chance she eagerly embraced.

As she moved up within the network, DePetro often shared behind-the-scenes moments with her followers, highlighting the impressive guests she encountered along the way.

From Hollywood stars like Mark Wahlberg to major political figures such as Nikki Haley, she found herself surrounded by influential names. Among them was Dana Perino, who at the time was simply another guest—but one who would soon become her boss.

When Perino appeared on set, DePetro didn’t hesitate to introduce herself. According to the U.S Sun she had read Perino’s book prior to their meeting and described it as something she “needed to hear” during a pivotal moment in her life.

In a TikTok video, she recalled the encounter: “I went right up to her and said, ‘I love your book. I read it. It changed my life.’”

The two stayed in touch, and when an opening for an assistant position became available, Perino offered DePetro the role—turning that one conversation into a defining moment in her career.