Predicting dangerous weather, reporting on issues that shape communities, and amplifying voices that might otherwise go unheard. Across the Borderland and beyond, New Mexico State University journalism graduates are using the power of storytelling to inform, connect and serve. 

Though their careers have taken them in different directions, Hannah Fresquez ’23, Rosemary Garcia ’21 and Karmina Conde ’26 share a common foundation: an NMSU education that gave them the skills, experience and confidence to make a difference through journalism. 

Forecasting More Than the Weather 

For Hannah Fresquez, journalism and science intersect in the fast-paced world of broadcast meteorology. 

A Las Cruces native, Hannah chose NMSU because it offered the ideal combination of journalism, geography and hands-on experience through News22, the university’s student-run television newscast. There, she discovered her passion for weather forecasting and learned how to combine storytelling with science. 

Today, Hannah serves as a weather forecaster for KFOX14 in El Paso, where she delivers daily forecasts and reports on weather events that affect communities across the Borderland. Her work took on special significance during the devastating Ruidoso wildfires, when she spent more than a week covering the Salt and South Fork fires and helping keep New Mexicans informed during a rapidly evolving crisis. 

“If I can make someone’s day a little easier, help them prepare for what’s ahead and protect their families, I know I’m doing my job,” Hannah says. 

For Hannah, forecasting isn’t simply about predicting sunshine or storms. It’s about helping people make informed decisions, stay safe and protect what matters most. 

Telling the Borderland’s Stories 

Like Hannah, Rosemary Garcia discovered her calling through NMSU’s student media programs. 

Born and raised in El Paso, Rosemary developed a love for television news while watching local newscasts as a child. After attending El Paso Community College, she transferred to NMSU and became deeply involved with KRWG News22, where she gained experience as a reporter and anchor and earned the New Mexico Broadcasters Association’s Best Original Production Award in 2021. “My professors and mentors, Nick Miller and Hugo Perez, taught me everything I know,” she says. 

Rosemary joined KVIA-TV while still a student, beginning her career as a multimedia journalist just months before graduating from NMSU with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and media studies in December 2021. Since then, she has reported on some of the region’s most significant stories, including President Joe Biden’s visit to the southern border, the lifting of Title 42 and migration-related issues affecting El Paso and the Borderland. She now serves as co-anchor of Good Morning El Paso, helping viewers start each day informed and connected to their community. 

But some of the stories closest to Rosemary’s heart are those that spotlight resilience and hope. Through KVIA’s “Good Vibes Only” segment, she shares uplifting community stories, highlighting ordinary people making an extraordinary difference in the lives of others. “It is a true honor getting to tell the stories of my resilient community every single day,” she says. 

Bridging Cultures Through Storytelling 

While Hannah and Rosemary found their passions in broadcast journalism, Karmina Conde’s journey reflects the global reach of NMSU’s journalism program. 

Raised in Chihuahua, Mexico, Karmina came to NMSU through the university’s partnership with Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua. As a journalism and media studies major, she has developed experience in news writing, social media, public relations and bilingual storytelling. She is now a social media assistant for Aggie Career Studio while continuing to refine her craft and finish her degree. 

“For me, journalism is about giving a voice to others and shedding light on issues that deserve attention,” Karmina says. “Every story we tell captures a moment in time that helps people understand the world around them.” 

Karmina’s education has been supported by the Daniel R. Perry Endowed Scholarship for Journalism and Mass Communications, established by Irene Perry in honor of her late husband, Daniel R. Perry ’62. One of only two journalism graduates in NMSU’s Class of 1962, Perry built a career rooted in service, leadership and communication. His legacy continues to inspire students like Karmina. 

As a bilingual journalist, Karmina sees communication as a bridge between cultures and communities. “Being bilingual allows me to reach audiences that are often left unheard,” she says. “It’s not just a skill. It’s part of my identity.” 

A Common Purpose 

Together, Hannah, Rosemary and Karmina demonstrate the many ways journalism can serve the public good. 

Their journeys also reflect the mission of NMSU’s Department of Journalism and Media Studies: providing students with real-world experience, meaningful mentorship and opportunities to make an impact long before graduation. 

From the News22 newsroom in Las Cruces to television studios in El Paso and communications offices on both sides of the border, Aggie journalists are informing the public, strengthening communities and proving that great storytelling remains one of the most powerful tools for creating positive change. 

And for these three Aggies, the story is only beginning.