Valerie Santillan

Valerie Santillan serves as a community manager and communications coordinator, bringing 6 years of experience in journalism to her roles. She researches stories, makes contacts, and merges social media with traditional journalism to tell compelling narratives while delivering timely news. Her educational background includes a BA in Communication Studies from Loyola University, where she double minored in Political Science and international business, followed by an MS in business journalism with a thesis on corruption in Latin America and its ties to global politics. She completed her MBA program in April and will graduate in November. Valerie also holds a Pilates Instructor Certification, which she pursued as a personal outlet for her love of fitness. Outside her main work, she engages in pro bono efforts at a free law firm assisting low-income clients and is one year away from completing her law degree. Her career path began with an interest in economics and international relations before shifting to communications and journalism, allowing her to interview politicians in Latin America and give voice to overlooked stories.