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Christine Portela, UF CJC Class of 2004

A University of Florida alumna and Miami native, Christine Portela blends broadcast journalism and diversity into one incredible career. As she journeys forth in the industry, Portela strives to mentor others just as other professionals mentored her.

Portela’s focal accomplishments are attributed to her current position as director of news operations for Univision’s Local Media division in Miami. It is here where she navigates the newsroom, cultivates news content strategies, undertakes group-wide initiatives, covers breaking news and improves presentation. According to her LinkedIn, Portela was officially appointed to the National Advisory Board of Poynter Institute this year.

Before Univision, Portela was the senior producer for José Díaz-Balart at MSNBC and Telemundo, covering worldwide news in Spanish and English. She produced live coverage for Hurricane Matthew, the Paris terror attacks and the Pulse nightclub shooting. Prior to this position, she directed her team in launching “Fusion Live” at the Fusion Media Network.

“It wasn't until several years into my media career that I realized just how underrepresented we are,” Portela said of the Hispanic community. “There have been moments where I've had to speak up in a room as the only minority … to give that perspective.”

Portela graduated from the College of Journalism and Communications in 2004, earning degrees in Spanish and telecommunication. While studying at UF, she was a resident assistant at Murphree Hall and an involved member of Kappa Kappa Gamma. In pursuit of her Spanish degree, Portela studied in Seville, Spain, during a semester at the Universidad Internacional Menéndez Pelayo.

“All these years later, I still remember my days in RTV2100 with Dr. Pactor,” Portela said. “The rigorous writing curriculum, coupled with shifts at the radio and TV station, taught me lessons I still use out in the 'real world.'”

Portela serves as a role model for individuals choosing a career in broadcast news. As Portela’s experience and wisdom flourishes, she will continue to pave a path in the field of communications.

“There will always be awards shows and fancy jobs,” Portela said. “What I'm proudest of throughout my career is always being the one to raise my hand to take on a new opportunity or challenge.”