Newsmakers 2016: Laura Simon

As photo editor at the Southeast Missourian newspaper, Laura Simon, 34, is quite literally a newsmaker.

Simon, who began working at the Southeast Missourian more than six years ago, started out as a freelance photographer and worked her way up to the full-time position of photo editor. She oversees two other photographers and works closely with the news and feature teams to coordinate photo coverage ranging from breaking news and centerpieces to magazine covers and fashion shoots.

Simon has had a longtime love affair with photography.

"I knew in high school that I wanted to be a photographer," she says. "(After high school), I moved to Denver in 2001 and attended the art institute there."

When asked what intrigues her about photography, Simon shares this: "I love talking to people and getting to know their different stories. I love meeting people from all different walks of life."

Laura SimonLaura Simon

Laura SimonLaura Simon

Simon volunteers her time with the Happy Slapowitz Toy Bash and the Humane Society of Southeast Missouri.

The toy bash is a fundraising effort for the Marine Corps League's annual Toys for Tots Christmas toy drive.

"I basically do whatever they need me to do, including helping to gather donations for the raffle," says Simon, who has been involved with the toy drive for the past four years.

Simon says the best part of the toy bash is getting to purchase the toys with the money raised through the fundraiser.

"The best part is the next day after the event; we all meet at Toys R Us and go shopping (for the toys). It's an incredible experience and lots of fun."

As an avid animal lover, Simon also volunteers with the Humane Society.

"I love animals and I try to cover as many animal-related issues as I can," she says. "And, I just love going out to the Humane Society."

When asked why she volunteers her time with these two not-for-profit organizations, Simon's answer is simple: "I work with the toy bash to help kids and I work with the Humane Society to help animals. I always wish I could do more."