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While many people know Kellee Hennessy Dickerson as the anchor of WAFB-TV’s weekend morning shows, her television journalism career consumes a relatively small part of her weekly schedule. The rest of the time, she’s the owner of a small business, an avid community volunteer and a wife and mother.

A native of Watson, Hennessy Dickerson thrives when busy. She piles as much on her plate as she can handle—and then goes for more. Among the organizations in which she is active are the American Red Cross, McMains Children’s Development Center, St. Jude Children’s Hospital telethon, Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Parish Council and the Junior League of Baton Rouge, for which she chaired the 25th annual Hollydays last month.

Hennessy Dickerson believes in making a difference—a conviction that came from watching her parents devote much of their time to volunteerism.

“I was blessed to have two parents, and I watched them always give back,” she says. “If I can do anything to make a difference, I will.”

While volunteerism takes up much of Hennessy Dickerson’s time, she devotes three days a week to her part-time job as a weekend morning show host at WAFB, the station that has been her professional home since she began her broadcast career 17 years ago. She originally considered a career in law, but says a professor advised against it because of her inclination to “always do what’s right.”

“He said I’d never make it in the legal profession,” she says.

Hennessy Dickerson is trying her hand at retail, however. Two years ago, she opened a small boutique in a shopping center near her home in Denham Springs. It’s a challenge, especially given the economy, and there has been a steep learning curve. But she is enjoying the experiences of going to market, managing inventory and interacting with customers.

Despite her many commitments, Hennessy Dickerson saves time for her husband, Scott Dickerson, and her 11-year-old daughter, Mallory, a student at Live Oak Middle School. It was Dickerson who nominated her for this award—a tribute in and of itself.

“She works so hard at her jobs and can give so much of her time to the community,” he says. “And she’s still a loving mother and wonderful wife.”

Age: 38

If you could have one job other than your own, what would it be?

“I’ve always dreamed of being a rock star. Problem is, I never could sing.”

Click here for the complete list of 2008's Forty Under 40 winners.