EMU Alumna Ronia Cabansag Recognized Among Detroit’s Rising Journalists

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YPSILANTI, Mich. — Eastern Michigan University alumna Ronia Cabansag is earning recognition for her growing career in Michigan journalism. Cabansag, a 2022 graduate of EMU’s Media Studies and Journalism and English Linguistics programs, was named a finalist for the Society of Professional Journalists Detroit chapter’s Young Journalist of the Year honor in May 2026, according to Eastern Michigan University.

Cabansag now works as a producer for Stateside, Michigan Public’s daily news and culture program. Her work also includes producing stories for podcasts such as On Hand and The Dish, while helping translate longer-form journalism into content designed for short-form social media platforms.

Her path into journalism began after she arrived at EMU studying English Linguistics with a minor in Computer Science. An introductory journalism course and volunteer work with The Eastern Echo helped Cabansag discover an interest in storytelling, eventually leading her to add Media Studies and Journalism as a second major.

While at The Eastern Echo, Cabansag founded its podcast program and led the team for more than a year. After graduation, she continued developing skills in audio production, data analysis and social media while building a career covering Michigan communities.

EMU journalism professor Dr. You Li described Cabansag as a curious and hardworking journalist whose willingness to continue learning has created new opportunities. Li also pointed to Cabansag’s career as an example of how classroom education combined with hands-on journalism experience can prepare students for professional media work.

Cabansag has remained connected to EMU and The Eastern Echo after graduation. She returned to share career advice during the university’s DMCJ Media Career Day and plans to offer workshops designed to help train future generations of student reporters.

Source: Eastern Michigan University College of Arts and Sciences