Andy Ybarra, a senior vice president of Weber Shandwick Minneapolis, has been elected to the ThreeSixty Journalism Leadership Council. Over the years, Ybarra has participated in various ThreeSixty student workshops covering the public relations field and career options. He also helped host ThreeSixty Journalism students at Weber Shandwick.
“I think people are genuinely excited about journalism careers again, and it’s important for today’s reporters to reflect the diverse communities they cover,” Ybarra said.
Prior to embarking on his public relations career, Ybarra spent time as a reporter for the Associated Press, writing for bureaus in both Minneapolis and Albuquerque, N.M.
Ybarra said in volatile times such as these, journalism is an opportunity to remind people why diversity is so important. He explained the only way to truly grow as a society is to give everyone a chance to tell their stories and be heard. Ybarra mentioned diversity in communications and journalism offers the chance to shine a light on unique voices, points of view and perspectives.
“ThreeSixty Journalism is helping to make that [diversity] a reality,” Ybarra said. “I truly believe in what they’re doing.”
