Makenzi Jordan Rodriguez joins Landis Communications Inc. as a public relations specialist, supporting mission-driven organizations with strategic communications, media research and stakeholder engagement. She regularly secures earned media and thought leadership opportunities for clients across regional and national outlets, with a focus on translating complex issues into clear, compelling narratives that connect to real-world impact.
Makenzi brings a strong research background to her role, which has supported media placements in notable publications, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she explored how influential figures and institutions could give back to their communities during moments of crisis. She is particularly interested in relationship-building as a communications tool and has helped clients strengthen partnerships across advocacy, nonprofit and civic sectors. Her public affairs–adjacent work has supported US-based initiatives addressing food and nutrition insecurity, as well as international humanitarian aid for refugee populations displaced by war in Ukraine.
Before joining Landis, Makenzi worked in the film industry in Los Angeles, championing the voices of marginalized communities by developing crowdfunding campaigns and expanding social media reach for independent projects. One of her proudest moments was contributing as a production manager, set decorator and costume designer to an independent short film that became an official selection of the 73rd Cannes Film Festival, amplifying Black voices and stories at the highest level of international film.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Makenzi wrote, illustrated, and published a children’s book designed to help young readers process uncertainty while celebrating social responsibility. While promoting the book through local and national media, she used the platform to raise awareness of communities disproportionately affected by the pandemic to donate proceeds to nonprofits supporting healthcare and education for vulnerable children and families. This experience helped shape her path into communications and media relations, where she could continue connecting stories to audiences.
In her free time, Makenzi enjoys antiquing and reconnecting with nature through trail running and camping throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and Big Sur. She also has a passion for travel and exploring new cultures and cuisines through international adventures.