Von Hilliard wife is a commonly searched phrase—but here’s what you need to know: Von Hilliard, the NBC News correspondent, is openly gay and happily married to his longtime partner, Devan Cayea.
The couple tied the knot on October 28, 2023, after getting engaged in August 2022. Their relationship, filled with love and mutual respect, has often been shared openly on social media, inspiring many.
While the term “wife” may be used in searches, Hilliard’s spouse is male. This article dives into their love story, wedding details, and more about Devan’s professional background. Keep reading to learn all the heartfelt details.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Vaughn Hillyard |
| Date of Birth | March 4, 1991 |
| Age | 34 years old (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Phoenix, Arizona, USA |
| Education | Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Journalism from Arizona State University (2013) |
| Occupation | Journalist, NBC News White House Correspondent |
| Years Active | 2013–present |
| Career Start | Began at NBC News as a Tim Russert Fellow in 2013 |
| Notable Roles | Political reporter, associate producer, correspondent; promoted to White House correspondent in 2025 |
| Major Coverage | Covered presidential campaigns (Ted Cruz, Mike Pence), Biden and Trump administrations, traveled to all 50 U.S. states for reporting |
| Awards & Honors | Inducted into the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication Alumni Hall of Fame in May 2025 |
| Marital Status | Married to Devan Cayea since October 28, 2023 |
| Partner’s Occupation | Head of Vital Preparation and Booking for New York Governor Kathy Hochul; former Associate Director of Federal Affairs at the Washington Office of the New York State Office of the Governor |
| Social Media | Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) |
| Fun Fact | Named after Charlie Sheen’s character, Rick “Wild Thing” Vaughn, from the movie Major League |
Vaughn Hillyard is a seasoned American journalist currently serving as a White House correspondent for NBC News. Since joining the network in 2013 as a Tim Russert Fellow, he has advanced through various roles, including political reporter and associate producer.
Hillyard has extensively covered U.S. politics, reporting on the presidential campaigns of Ted Cruz and Mike Pence, as well as the administrations of Presidents Biden and Trump. His assignments have taken him across all 50 states, providing in-depth political coverage.
In addition to his reporting, Hillyard has been recognized for his contributions to journalism. In May 2025, he was inducted into the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication Alumni Hall of Fame, honoring his impactful work in the field.
Notably, in January 2024, Hillyard was blocked from covering a Trump campaign event in New Hampshire after pressing Rep. Elise Stefanik on sensitive topics related to former President Trump’s legal issues.
Despite the campaign’s denial of retaliatory motives, the incident highlighted the challenges journalists may face when reporting on contentious political matters.
Vaughn Hillyard was born on March 4, 1991, in Phoenix, Arizona. His early interest in journalism was sparked during his third-grade year when his teacher, Donna Hicks, initiated an elementary school newspaper.
This experience ignited his passion for storytelling and reporting. He attended Thunderbird High School in northwestern Phoenix, graduating in 2009.
During his high school years, Hillyard was actively involved in journalism, notably leading a student protest against censorship by publishing a blank page in the school newspaper—a move that garnered attention from local media and highlighted his commitment to journalistic integrity.
Hillyard was raised in a close-knit, sports-loving family in Phoenix. His parents, David and Mickey Hillyard, often took him to sporting events, fostering a shared family passion for athletics. His grandmother, Barbara Hillyard, also played a significant role in his upbringing.
Vaughn is the eldest of two siblings, with a younger sister named Anne Hillyard, who works as a Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant at the Washington Elementary School District. The family’s support and encouragement were instrumental in shaping Hillyard’s career path and personal values.
Vaughn Hillyard is an accomplished journalist who earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in journalism from Arizona State University’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication in 2013. His academic journey at ASU laid the foundation for his distinguished career in political reporting.
During his time at ASU, Hillyard was actively involved in student journalism and advocacy. Notably, he led a student protest against censorship by publishing a blank page in the school newspaper, a move that garnered attention from local media and highlighted his commitment to journalistic integrity.
Vaughn Hillyard has built a distinguished career in journalism, marked by his insightful political reporting and dedication to public service. After earning both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in journalism from Arizona State University in 2013, he joined NBC News as a Tim Russert Fellow.
Over the years, Hillyard has held various roles, including political reporter, associate producer, and correspondent. His extensive coverage has spanned presidential campaigns, congressional races, and national policy issues, earning him recognition for his comprehensive reporting.
In May 2025, Hillyard’s contributions to journalism were honored with his induction into the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication Alumni Hall of Fame. This accolade celebrates his commitment to accurate and impactful storytelling.
Throughout his career, Hillyard has demonstrated a passion for journalism, a commitment to public service, and a dedication to providing audiences with in-depth political coverage. His work continues to inspire both aspiring journalists and seasoned professionals in the field.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters) |
| Weight | 63 kg (139 lbs) |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Build | Fit |
Vaughn Hillyard is openly gay and has been in a committed relationship with Devan Cayea for several years. The couple got engaged in August 2022 and tied the knot on October 28, 2023, in a ceremony held at La Puesta del Sol in Costa Rica.
Their wedding was celebrated by friends and colleagues, including U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar, who shared a photo from the event, highlighting the joyous occasion.
Devan Cayea has an impressive background in public service, having worked as the Head of Vital Preparation and Booking for New York Governor Kathy Hochul. He also served as the Associate Director of Federal Affairs at the Washington Office of the New York State Office of the Governor.
Cayea holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Affairs from American University and studied at the Chinese University of Hong Kong in 2012.
As of 2025, Vaughn Hillyard’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $2 million, primarily derived from his career as a political journalist at NBC News. His annual salary is reported to range from $69,800 to $150,000, reflecting his extensive experience and prominent role within the network.
Hillyard’s financial standing is bolstered by his comprehensive coverage of major political events, including presidential campaigns and national policy developments. His dedication to delivering in-depth political reporting has not only earned him recognition in the field but also contributed to his financial success.
While specific details about additional income sources are not publicly disclosed, his primary earnings stem from his longstanding tenure at NBC News.
As of now, Vaughn Hillyard has not publicly disclosed specific future plans or goals. However, his career trajectory and recent activities suggest a continued commitment to political journalism and in-depth reporting.
Hillyard’s role as a White House correspondent for NBC News involves covering significant political events and providing analysis, indicating his dedication to informing the public on critical issues.
His active presence on social media platforms, such as X (formerly Twitter), where he shares updates and insights, further demonstrates his engagement with current affairs and the journalistic community.
While specific long-term goals have not been publicly stated, Hillyard’s consistent involvement in political reporting and his recognition within the field, including his induction into the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication Alumni Hall of Fame, suggest a focus on continuing to provide impactful journalism.
| Platform | Handle | Followers | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| @vaughn_hillyard | 18.5K | Shares behind-the-scenes moments from his reporting assignments, personal life, and travels. | |
| X (formerly Twitter) | @VaughnHillyard | 71.9K | Provides real-time updates on political events, insights from the White House, and links to his NBC News reports. |
Named After a Movie Character: Vaughn’s parents named him after Charlie Sheen’s character, Ricky “Wild Thing” Vaughn, in the 1989 film Major League. His mother’s ringtone for him is even “Wild Thing”.
Early Start in Journalism: His interest in journalism began in third grade when his teacher, Donna Hicks, started an elementary school newspaper, sparking his passion for reporting.
First Political Profile: Hillyard’s first political profile was his elementary school band teacher, Jackie Thrasher, who ran for the Arizona State House.
Covered All 50 States: Over the past few years, he has traveled to all 50 U.S. states, engaging with citizens to understand their perspectives on national issues.
Inducted into Cronkite Alumni Hall of Fame: In May 2025, Vaughn was honored by Arizona State University’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication for his contributions to journalism.
Active on Social Media: He maintains an active presence on Instagram (@vaughn_hillyard), sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of his reporting assignments and personal life.
Background in Political Reporting: Before becoming a White House correspondent, Hillyard covered various political campaigns, including those of Senators Ted Cruz and Mike Pence.
Educational Background: He earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in journalism from Arizona State University in 2013.
Passionate About Environmental Issues: Hillyard has expressed concern over environmental challenges, particularly the depletion of groundwater in Arizona, highlighting the need for increased attention to water issues in the Southwest.
Celebrated Journalist: Throughout his career, Vaughn has been recognized for his dedication to delivering accurate and impactful journalism, earning respect among peers and audiences alike.
Who is Vaughn Hillyard?
Vaughn Hillyard is a White House correspondent for NBC News.
Is Vaughn Hillyard married?
Yes, he married Devan Cayea on October 28, 2023.
What is Vaughn Hillyard’s age?
He was born on March 4, 1991, and is 34 years old as of 2025.
Where is Vaughn Hillyard from?
He is from Phoenix, Arizona, United States.
What is Vaughn Hillyard’s educational background?
He earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in journalism from Arizona State University.
What is Vaughn Hillyard’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $2 million.
Vaughn Hillyard has established himself as a respected and influential voice in American political journalism. From his early passion for storytelling to his role as a White House correspondent for NBC News, his journey reflects dedication, integrity, and impact.
Covering high-profile campaigns and national issues, Hillyard brings depth and clarity to complex political landscapes. Beyond his professional achievements, his openness about his identity and personal life has made him a relatable and inspiring figure.
As he continues to inform and engage the public, Vaughn Hillyard remains a key contributor to trusted journalism in today’s media landscape.