Nixson Benítez Email & Phone Number

Des Moines, Iowa, United States

In my role as a Social Media Producer at the Des Moines Register, I established a strong presence on TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels. These efforts significantly enhanced our digital footprint and engagement. Since July 2023, my initiatives have brought 11,000 followers to our new TikTok account and contributed to 20 million views, showcasing the Register’s brand to a broader audience.I played a pivotal role in elevating our Instagram account, now the #1 news source in Iowa, by contributing to a 10,000-follower gain. My work was recognized by being nominated for the “Rookie of the Year” award, reflecting my dedication and impact within the company.Collaborating with a team of three, I introduced innovative methods of reporting vertical content, which streamlined our social media strategies and boosted overall engagement by 236%. My contributions have not only expanded our audience but also solidified our position as a leading news source in the state.Through strategic content creation and data-driven insights, I have successfully enhanced the Register’s social media presence, driving significant growth and engagement across multiple platforms.

Des Moines, Iowa, United States

I established Iowa's first professional National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) chapter, fostering community and diversity. Collaborating on press releases, distribution lists, and infographics, I enhanced communication efforts. Recognized as a 2022 finalist for the Professional Chapter of the Year award, I spearheaded impactful initiatives.

Cedar Falls, Iowa, United States

In my role, I implemented the idea of a Spanish column to engage a new audience in the Cedar Falls and Waterloo community, broadening our readership and fostering inclusivity. I recruited, hired, and oriented 30 journalists and 7 editors, while also leading weekly editorial meetings and monthly writers meetings to ensure the production of 24 articles per week.Managing a team of 40 young professionals, I drove significant growth across our digital platforms. On Facebook, our reach increased by 49,241 and we gained 112 new likes. On Twitter, profile visits rose by 22,187, resulting in an 11.8% increase in followers. This digital strategy led to a remarkable 218% increase in digital page views compared to the previous academic year.I represented the newspaper at an institution of 10,000 students and to external constituents, ensuring our presence and influence were felt both on and off campus. My efforts were recognized with several awards, including the Fearless Speech award from the United Faculty organization for our team's outstanding performance and first place for best use of social media by the Iowa College Media Association. Additionally, I was a finalist for the Pat Pisarik Student Journalist of the Year in both 2023 and 2022.My comprehensive approach to leadership, innovative content strategies, and commitment to journalistic excellence have driven substantial growth and engagement, solidifying our position as a leading news source.

Des Moines, Ia

As the Arts and Culture Editor, I attended three media days, interviewing three Olympic athletes to create engaging and relevant content. I successfully launched and managed our TikTok account, achieving consistent engagement with 200 views per post on this newly established platform. Additionally, I delivered four stories weekly, driving the publication of 35 articles over three months. My efforts not only expanded our digital presence but also significantly enhanced reader engagement, showcasing diverse arts and culture narratives effectively. This role allowed me to highlight significant cultural events and personalities, enriching our audience's experience and knowledge.

Des Moines, Ia

- Created a program manual utilizing InDesign and developed a magazine to make the information engaging for youth- Laid the foundation for Iowa’s first Youth Justice Council, a subcommittee of the Juvenile Justice Advisory Council, and developed the Council Policy and Procedure Manual, the application process, and onboarding process- Networked with several national, state and local leaders to advance goals and initiatives, including Michael Sync- a criminal justice influencer and TedTalker- Co-led multiple Creative Expressions art contests within detention centers across Iowa resulting in youth voices being amplified- Successfully emceed Iowa’s first Family and Youth Engagement Summit to an audience of over 300 people from across the state and country- Contributed to the development of the School-Based Youth Action Squad manual, a new program being offered by DHR in local communities- Created and edited a video educating women at the Iowa Correctional Institution for Women (ICIW) about a prison research project that the Iowa Department of Human Rights is leading in partnership with the women there. This research project engages all women at the prison (including those ages 18-26) about their role in the project.

Cedar Falls, Iowa, United States

As the social media manager for the Resident Assistants, I crafted and executed a comprehensive strategy to enhance engagement and build a vibrant online community. I curated and created content that highlighted RA events, shared important updates, and celebrated student achievements. Utilizing platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, I scheduled regular posts, engaged with followers, and analyzed metrics to optimize our outreach. My efforts increased follower count, boosted event attendance, and fostered a sense of connection among residents. By creating visually appealing and informative posts, I successfully promoted the RA program and its initiatives, strengthening our presence on social media.

Atlanta, Georgia, United States

In my role, I proposed recommendations to clients based on conducted market research, enhancing brand exposure. I generated reports on Google Sheets, creating visuals to analyze social media trends and identify niches, optimizing organic reach and audience growth.I collaborated with the coordinator and interns on a 90-day schedule, implementing posting schedules for a company's second-season show, expected to increase followers and views by 15%. I spearheaded the production and foundation of a client's podcast focused on Public Relations and the latest trends.I presented my work to a group of 12 industry professionals, sharing successes and lessons learned. Additionally, I pitched to media outlets, securing placements for clients. My strategic approach and effective collaboration contributed significantly to the success and visibility of our clients' brands.