Nohely Mackowiak

I started my career in journalism because I thought I wanted to be a journalist and news anchor for the rest of my life, sharing important information and telling stories that matter. I began in cable news before moving to local television in Texas. I’m originally from San Diego, California, so moving to Texas was a big change. In fact, I had to Google the name of the small town I was moving to before I arrived. I worked at one news station for about a year before moving to another station in Central Texas, and what I thought would be a short stop turned into something much longer. I’ve now been in Texas for more than 10 years, which still feels a little unbelievable. I always thought I’d stay for a year, move to a bigger market, and eventually head back to San Diego. Instead, my path took a different direction. After several years working as a news anchor, reporter, and lifestyle show host, I transitioned into public relations for the City of Temple, the very first city I moved to when I came to Texas. Today, I serve as the Public Relations and Engagement Division Director for the city, something I never imagined myself doing. I’ve been in this role for nearly four years and will begin my fifth year next year. I often describe myself simply as a communicator. That’s where my roots are. The difference now is that I’m communicating in a new way, one that feels even more meaningful. I get to tell the story of a city and highlight the people who work behind the scenes to keep it running. Many residents never get the chance to meet these employees or realize they’re often their own neighbors. When people think about city government, there can sometimes be a negative perception, but there is so much good work happening every single day. Being able to highlight those stories and the people behind them is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.