Hoda Kotb was officially announced as the replacement for disgraced NBC’s Today host Matt Lauer Tuesday, after NBC Chairman Andy Lack sent out a company wide message confirming the news.

Lack said Kotb and her new co-host Savannah Guthrie have an “undeniable connection” with viewers and called Kotb “remarkable.” He also praised her for her rare “authenticity” and believes it will resonate with the audience.

Hoda Kotb has been named new co-anchor of TODAY https://t.co/rTgMsxnEtw pic.twitter.com/Jk1w8nk0tY

— NBC News (@NBCNews) January 2, 2018

Kotb’s authenticity will come as a welcomed relief as she replaces Lauer, who was dismissed from NBC’s Today after allegations of sexual harassment and inappropriate sexual conduct back in November.

After Lauer’s firing, Lack stressed the network’s need to “create a workplace environment where everyone feels safe and protected.” Lauer eventually apologized for anyone he may have hurt and the damage he caused to the NBC brand.

Kotb has been a correspondent for Dateline NBC since 1998 and has co-hosted the fourth hour of the Today Show with Kathie Lee Gifford. Guthrie called the news “beyond thrilling” and expressed her excitement on Twitter by posting a selfie of her and Kotb.

Beyond thrilling! #SavannahHodaTODAY https://t.co/S5Cj9x8pTu

— Savannah Guthrie (@SavannahGuthrie) January 2, 2018

This is us! #SavannahHodaTODAY pic.twitter.com/Xe2z6uygZe

— Savannah Guthrie (@SavannahGuthrie) January 2, 2018

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