Christina Fernandez-Morrow as Editor in Chief
By Staff, Hola Iowa
When Christina Fernández-Morrow first began contributing to Hola America Publications in 2016, she never imagined she would one day lead the organization's editorial vision. Now, as the newly appointed editor-in-chief, she is excited to be at the helm of highlighting the dynamic Latino communities featured in their publications.
With a master’s degree in writing from Vermont College of Fine Arts, Fernández-Morrow is trained to bring advanced writing and editing techniques and passionate commitment to her new role. In 2024, her journalistic excellence was recognized by the National Association of Hispanic Publications when she won three awards for her outstanding articles on immigration, culture, and entertainment, highlighting her ability to capture complex narratives with depth and sensitivity. As the new head of editorial, she will oversee copy for all print and digital content including Hola America News, Hola Iowa, Hola Nebraska, and JEFAS Latinas in Business Magazine. "Our mission goes beyond reporting local news," explains Fernández-Morrow. "Our publications are catalysts for building pride, inspiring change through human connection, and showcasing the incredible contributions of Latinos in the Midwest."
Her approach centers on the organization's core values: community focus, family orientation, connectivity, education, authenticity, and cultural celebration. These principles aren't just concepts to her, they're a lived philosophy she shares with the rest of the leadership team.
As editor-in-chief, she’ll do more than traditional editing. She will recruit and develop a network of writers across Iowa, Illinois and Nebraska with coaching and mentorship to ensure that each story resonates with the company's commitment to community empowerment.
Her background as a writer and editor provides her with unique insights into the nuanced work of storytelling. She understands that each article is an opportunity to challenge outdated narratives, highlight achievements, and create meaningful representation of communities that are often targeted and tainted with negative press. "Every story we publish is a chance to show our strengths, our challenges, and our extraordinary potential," she says.
The publications under her leadership will continue to serve as community builders, educational resources, and platforms for cultural pride. From profiles of local entrepreneurs to discussions of community reactions to local and national issues, Fernández-Morrow’s goal is to ensure that each piece of content serves the larger mission of uplifting and inspiring readers and followers. As she steps into this role, one thing is clear: this new editor-in-chief symbolizes a commitment to authentic representation and thoughtful storytelling focused on community and culture.
Sounds like a great choice!