Tom Flood and Lin Sue Cooney: A Legacy of Media Excellence and Community Impact in Arizona

Tom Flood and Lin Sue Cooney are two of the most influential figures in the history of Arizona broadcasting, recognized for their leadership at KPNX (12 News) and their subsequent contributions to the non-profit sector. Married since 2014, they represent a powerful partnership that transitioned from the high-pressure world of television news to dedicated community service, specifically through Hospice of the Valley.

In the landscape of Southwestern media, few names carry as much weight as Lin Sue Cooney and Tom Flood. For decades, they were instrumental in shaping how Arizonans received their news, navigated local crises, and celebrated community milestones. While their professional paths initially crossed within the walls of a major television station, their shared journey has evolved into a masterclass in how public figures can leverage their influence for the greater good. As of 2026, their impact remains a cornerstone of the Phoenix community, bridging the gap between professional journalism and compassionate advocacy.

The Professional Journey of Lin Sue Cooney

Lin Sue Cooney is a name synonymous with integrity and warmth in Arizona journalism. Her career at KPNX, the NBC affiliate in Phoenix, spanned over three decades, making her one of the longest-serving and most beloved anchors in the region's history.

A Foundation in Journalism

Cooney joined KPNX in 1984, a time when local news was the primary source of information for the rapidly growing Phoenix metropolitan area. Over the course of 31 years, she anchored the evening news, becoming a nightly fixture in thousands of households. Her style was characterized by a rare blend of professional authority and genuine empathy, a combination that earned her numerous Emmy Awards and a place in the Arizona Broadcasters Hall of Fame.

During her tenure, Cooney wasn't just a reader of news; she was a storyteller. She covered major national events and local tragedies, but she was perhaps best known for her "Hero Central" segments. These reports focused on ordinary citizens doing extraordinary things, highlighting the positive aspects of the community that were often overshadowed by the "if it bleeds, it leads" mentality of traditional news cycles.

The Transition to Hospice of the Valley

In 2015, at the height of her career, Cooney made the surprising decision to step away from the anchor desk. Her departure was not into a traditional retirement, but rather a transition into a role that allowed her to apply her communication skills to a deeply personal cause. She joined Hospice of the Valley (HOV) as the Director of Community Engagement.

Hospice of the Valley is one of the nation’s largest and most respected non-profit hospice organizations. For Cooney, the move was a natural extension of her work in "Hero Central." By joining HOV, she shifted her focus from reporting on the community to actively serving its most vulnerable members. Her role involves raising awareness about palliative care, dementia support, and the importance of end-of-life dignity, ensuring that families in Arizona have access to the resources they need during their most difficult moments.

The Executive Leadership of Tom Flood

While Lin Sue Cooney was the face of KPNX, Tom Flood was often the visionary leader behind the scenes. As an executive in the broadcasting industry, Flood played a pivotal role in the operational and strategic direction of major media outlets.

Leadership at KPNX and Beyond

Tom Flood served as the President and General Manager of KPNX (12 News) and the Arizona Republic’s television operations under the Gannett (now TEGNA) umbrella. His leadership era was defined by a period of significant technological and cultural shifts in the media industry. Under his guidance, the station navigated the transition from traditional analog broadcasting to the digital age, expanding its reach through web platforms and social media.

Flood was known for a leadership style that prioritized both excellence in reporting and the well-being of his staff. He understood that a newsroom's strength lay in its people, and he worked to maintain a culture of high standards. It was during this period of professional collaboration that his relationship with Cooney eventually blossomed, though they maintained a professional distance during their direct supervisor-employee years.

Strategic Vision and Community Board Service

Following his departure from the day-to-day operations of KPNX, Flood continued to influence the Arizona business and non-profit landscape. His expertise in management and strategic communication has made him a sought-after voice on various boards and advisory committees. His work often mirrors the philanthropic spirit seen in Cooney’s career, as he leverages his executive experience to help non-profits operate more efficiently and achieve greater reach.

A Partnership of Purpose

The marriage of Tom Flood and Lin Sue Cooney in 2014 marked the union of two individuals who had already dedicated their lives to the public. Their partnership is often cited by those in the Phoenix community as an example of mutual support and shared values.

Shared Philanthropic Efforts

Together, Flood and Cooney have become a formidable force in Arizona philanthropy. While Cooney is deeply embedded in the operations of Hospice of the Valley, Flood often supports these initiatives through strategic networking and advocacy. They are frequently seen at community events, fundraisers, and educational seminars, using their combined recognition to draw attention to causes ranging from animal welfare—a long-time passion of Cooney’s—to healthcare and education.

Their involvement with "Light Up a Life," an annual event for Hospice of the Valley, is a prime example of their collaborative impact. The event, which honors the memory of lost loved ones, benefits from Cooney’s emotive storytelling and Flood’s understanding of community engagement, raising significant funds for charity care.

Influence on Local Media Culture

The legacy of Flood and Cooney also lives on in the culture of Arizona media. Many of the anchors, reporters, and producers currently working in the Phoenix market were mentored or hired by this duo. They instilled a sense of "community-first" journalism that persists even as the industry faces the challenges of the 2020s. Their careers serve as a reminder that local news is at its best when it is rooted in the lives of the people it serves.

Comparison of Career Milestones

The following table outlines the parallel yet distinct paths taken by Tom Flood and Lin Sue Cooney in their service to the Arizona community.

The Impact of Hospice of the Valley in 2026

To understand the current significance of Lin Sue Cooney’s work, one must look at the state of healthcare in 2026. As the "Silver Tsunami" (the aging of the Baby Boomer generation) continues, the demand for compassionate end-of-life care has reached an all-time high.

Cooney’s work at Hospice of the Valley has been instrumental in destigmatizing hospice care. By using her familiar voice to explain that hospice is "not about dying, but about living well until the end," she has helped thousands of families navigate the complexities of terminal illness. Her efforts have expanded the organization’s outreach to diverse communities, ensuring that language barriers or cultural differences do not prevent patients from receiving dignified care.

Furthermore, her advocacy for the "Dementia Care and Education Campus" has set a national standard. This facility, supported by HOV, provides a holistic approach to memory loss, offering support for both patients and their caregivers. Cooney’s ability to communicate the nuances of this care has been vital in securing the community support necessary to sustain such ambitious projects.

Navigating the Legacy of Arizona Media

In 2026, the media landscape is vastly different from the one Tom Flood managed in the early 2000s. However, the principles he championed—accuracy, community relevance, and local accountability—are more valuable than ever.

Flood’s legacy is found in the resilience of local broadcasting. While national news outlets often face polarization, the local stations that Flood helped build continue to be trusted sources for Arizonans. His executive decisions laid the groundwork for the multi-platform approach that modern newsrooms now take for granted. By prioritizing digital innovation early on, he ensured that local voices would not be drowned out by the noise of the global internet.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Lin Sue Cooney leave 12 News?

Lin Sue Cooney officially retired from her role as an anchor at 12 News (KPNX) in the summer of 2015. After more than 31 years at the station, she chose to embark on a new chapter as a community advocate, joining Hospice of the Valley to focus on healthcare and end-of-life dignity.

What is the relationship between Tom Flood and Lin Sue Cooney?

Tom Flood and Lin Sue Cooney are husband and wife. They were married in 2014. Historically, their relationship began after years of working in the same industry; Tom Flood served as the General Manager of the station where Lin Sue was the lead anchor.

What is Lin Sue Cooney’s role at Hospice of the Valley?

As of 2026, Lin Sue Cooney serves as the Director of Community Engagement at Hospice of the Valley. In this capacity, she utilizes her communication expertise to educate the public about palliative care, grief support, and dementia resources, while also leading various fundraising and awareness initiatives.

How has Tom Flood influenced Phoenix television?

Tom Flood’s influence stems from his tenure as President and General Manager of KPNX. He was a key figure in navigating the station through major industry shifts, including the digital transition. He is recognized for maintaining high journalistic standards and fostering a culture of community involvement within the newsroom.

What causes do Tom Flood and Lin Sue Cooney support?

The couple is widely known for their support of Hospice of the Valley. Additionally, Lin Sue Cooney is a prominent advocate for animal welfare and has been involved with various Arizona-based animal rescue organizations. Tom Flood often lends his expertise to non-profit boards focused on community development and healthcare.

Practical Recommendations for Community Involvement

For those inspired by the work of Tom Flood and Lin Sue Cooney, there are several ways to engage with the causes they champion.

1. Volunteer with Hospice of the Valley: HOV always seeks volunteers for patient companionship, administrative support, and special events. Their training programs are comprehensive and allow individuals to make a tangible difference in the lives of those facing terminal illness.
2. Support Local Journalism: As both Flood and Cooney demonstrated, local news is a vital community pillar. Supporting local outlets through subscriptions or engagement helps maintain the accountability and storytelling that define the Phoenix area.
3. Advocate for Dementia Care: With the growing prevalence of memory-related illnesses, supporting organizations that provide education and caregiver support is essential. Participating in community workshops or donating to memory care campuses helps sustain these critical resources.
4. Embrace "Hero Central" Values: One of Cooney’s greatest contributions was highlighting local heroes. Individuals can carry this legacy forward by nominating neighbors for community awards or simply practicing small acts of kindness that strengthen the local social fabric.

As Arizona continues to grow and evolve, the blueprint provided by Tom Flood and Lin Sue Cooney remains relevant. Their transition from media powerhouses to community servants highlights a profound truth: the most lasting legacy is not found in the ratings we achieve, but in the lives we touch through service and compassion.