New York, NY – June 12, 2025, 04:53 AM ET – Fox News hosts were left in disbelief as Dana Perino returned to the studio after a surprising two-week absence, revealing she had traveled to Cambodia to help build a school for underprivileged children—and brought back a poignant artifact that has captivated her colleagues. The 53-year-old co-host of The Five and America’s Newsroom, known for her polished on-air presence, shared her unexpected journey on June 11, leaving the panel stunned by her hands-on humanitarian effort and the emotional keepsake she carried home.
Perino, who stepped away from her broadcasting duties starting May 27, explained that she joined a volunteer initiative with a non-profit focused on education in rural Cambodia, working alongside locals to construct a primary school in Siem Reap. “I needed to do something beyond the newsroom—building that school with those kids changed me,” she said, her voice breaking during the segment. Her absence, initially attributed to a vague “personal project,” caught her co-hosts off guard, with Greg Gutfeld quipping, “I thought you were just perfecting your tan!” The effort, completed on June 9, provided a learning space for over 100 children, a cause Perino tied to her belief in global empowerment.
What stunned her colleagues most was the artifact she brought back: a hand-carved wooden plaque, gifted by the village elders, inscribed with a Khmer proverb about resilience, translated as “From small roots grow mighty trees.” Perino displayed it on set, explaining, “It’s a reminder of their strength—and mine, I hope.” The gesture moved Jesse Watters to silence, while Jeanine Pirro praised her dedication, saying, “Dana’s heart is as big as her headlines.” Trending on social media, fans have lauded her humility, with comments like “Dana building schools abroad—true inspiration!” reflecting a mix of admiration and surprise.
While some question the timing amid a busy news cycle, Perino’s return with this tangible memento has shifted the narrative, showcasing a side rarely seen on air. As she resumes her role, the school in Cambodia and its wooden plaque stand as a testament to her commitment, leaving Fox News and its viewers reflecting on the impact beyond the screen.