Laura Rodriguez Presa was born and raised in Guanajuato, Mexico. She is a first-generation Mexican immigrant who has lived in some of Chicago’s largest immigrant communities, including Pilsen and Belmont Cragin. She attended DePaul University and graduated with a journalism degree with a concentration in Latino media. Throughout her journalism career, Rodriguez has focused on uplifting stories about Spanish-speaking immigrants in Chicago and how they intertwine with policy for the Chicago Tribune.
Formerly a multimedia reporter for Hoy, the largest Spanish-language newspaper in the Midwest, Rodriguez focused on exposing the often untold stories of the community to change the narrative presented in mainstream media. She aims to write pieces that transcend language, race, age, and gender barriers.
Rodriguez is now an adjunct professor at DePaul University, teaching journalism and serving as an advisor of the institution’s bilingual publications. She is also the vice president of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists Chicago Chapter, helping to raise money to fund scholarships for low-income students.
Words of Wisdom: “Don’t ever compare yourself to others. Focus on what role you want in this world, and God will lead the way to success.”
