Jenna Bush Hager to co-host 4th hour of 'Today' with Hoda Kotb

“You have been such a role model and so generous with your time,” Hager told Gifford Tuesday. “You are beloved here in so many ways and if I can use some of your grace and have a half of what you’ve done, my life will be a very happy one.”

“You keep trusting your instincts,” Gifford said. “You’re going to sit next to the best person in the whole world because she has your back, because she has your heart. It’s going to be fun. You guys are going to have a ball.”

USA Today reported Hager has been on "Today" as a correspondent since 2009, and has regularly filled in for both Gifford and Kotb during the fourth hour.

Hager also shared the good news with her father, former President George W. Bush.

“My dad just wrote me three words, which made me weep. He said, ‘Very proud dad,’” Hager said. “Which I’m like, what is there to be proud about? I’m just drinking wine in the morning!”

Related: Kathie Lee Gifford leaving 'Today'

Kotb told People Hager is "the perfect fit."

“Being around Jenna is like being around the most real person. ... She has this thing that’s special,” she said. “I know that people try to have it but I think you’re born with it and Jenna has it and it’s the thing that makes her laugh at herself when she spills coffee on herself. It’s the way that she makes other moms feel good enough because she explains how she’s had the worst day ever and puts it out there.”

NBC News President Noah Oppenheim indicated in an email to staff that this is the first of many changes for the fourth hour of the morning show.

"While it's bittersweet to say goodbye to Kathie Lee, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to make some changes at 10 a.m.," Oppenheim said, according to USA Today. "This is just the first of many! The show is evolving, and we will have additional announcements to share with you in the coming months."