The journalist takes on the lead production role at Noticias Jacksonville with a message of perseverance for new communicators.
Adapted from materials provided by Ceven Media
JACKSONVILLE, FL — In a milestone that combines professional excellence with a powerful message of perseverance, Sagrado Alumnus José Alberto Colón-Rodríguez was named News Producer for Noticias Jacksonville, the first and only Spanish-language local news service for Northeast Florida, marking a turning point in the representation of the Hispanic community in the region.
Colón-Rodríguez, a journalist originally from Coamo, assumed this strategic role following a career at Telemundo Houston, where his multiplatform content strategies achieved a substantial increase in audience engagement. His rise is a testament to how academic preparation and resilience are key to opening doors in the most competitive markets in the United States.
For the journalist, this appointment is not only a personal achievement, but also a platform to inspire other young Puerto Ricans to continue pursuing their professional development despite obstacles.
“Producing the first Spanish-language newscast in Jacksonville is more than a challenge; it is an ecosystem of empowerment for our Hispanic community during a difficult moment in the United States in recent years,” expressed Colón-Rodríguez. “To the young people who are studying and feel that the path is difficult: do not give up, even if a thousand doors close. Our presence is essential to transforming the media. Keep preparing yourselves and innovating, because you are the ones who will lead the way toward more inclusive and bold journalism,” he affirmed.
From Coamo to the Digital Vanguard
Colón-Rodríguez’s journey is an example of continuous growth. He began his career in his hometown as part of the team behind the digital magazine Tu Universo Online and strengthened his academic foundation at Universidad del Sagrado Corazón, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Digital Production (2021) and founded projects such as STV Noticias, the first student-led news program created by and for students.
Later, he earned a Master’s Degree in Journalism and Innovation (2024) and a Certification in Artificial Intelligence from Florida International University (FIU), tools he now applies to revolutionize news production. He is currently an active member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ), where he promotes the use of emerging technologies in newsrooms.
About the Newscast
Noticias Jacksonville premiered on May 4. Colón-Rodríguez will work alongside Executive Producer Karen Taffanelli and a strong team of professionals to ensure that the Hispanic population of Northeast Florida receives high-quality information in their language, once again demonstrating that Puerto Rican talent knows no borders when paired with education and determination.