116 3rd St SE
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
Home / News / Environmental News
Journalists of The Gazette: Meet Olivia Cohen
Get to know The Gazette’s Energy and Environment Reporter
Olivia Cohen Feb. 11, 2026 3:32 pm
The Gazette offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
Where are you from and where did you go to school?
I am originally from Minneapolis, Minnesota, but before coming to The Gazette, I spent some time in Chicago, where I went to college. I went to Columbia College Chicago, which is located right in downtown Chicago in South Loop.
I came to the Gazette through a nonprofit organization called report for America that places journalists in newsrooms around the country.
Describe your beat.
I love the energy and environment beat because it looks different every single day. One day I might be reporting on water quality, another day on invasive species or animals in Iowa. I really like the variety and diversity I get with this beat.
I also write and produce the Gazette, environmental and outdoor newsletter that comes out on Thursday mornings. You can sign up for that at thegazette.com/newsletters.
What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside of work, I like to read, spend time outside — especially in the summer months— and just enjoy downtime with family and friends.
Share a fun fact about yourself.
A fun fact about me is that I recently adopted a one eyed dog from a rescue organization in Minnesota. She's a Shih Tzu, and her name is Honey, and she's a little love bug. I just love being with her.
Where can we read your latest work?
You can read my latest work at www.thegazette.com/olivia-cohen.
Comments: olivia.cohen@thegazette.com

Daily Newsletters