A new investigative reporting fellowship, launched by Advance Local in collaboration with the Newhouse School, is set to provide valuable opportunities for journalism students. The program, named the David Newhouse Investigative Reporting Fellowship, aims to engage students in investigative projects with local impact across various newsrooms.
The fellowship honors David Newhouse, who was known for leading The Patriot-News in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, to a Pulitzer Prize in 2012. He played a significant role in advancing investigative reporting, and his work contributed to major political and social changes in the state. During his tenure at Advance Local, Newhouse encouraged a shift towards digital journalism as the industry evolved.
John Hassell, senior vice president and editorial director at Advance Local, states, “David was a fearless leader and an enthusiastic champion of the exciting opportunities that digital platforms provide local journalists,” adding that the fellowship fittingly celebrates Newhouse’s legacy by supporting young journalists and impactful journalism.
The inaugural fellow of the program is Finn Lincoln, a senior at Newhouse School majoring in magazine, news, and digital journalism. Lincoln has already been involved in investigative work and has contributed to AL.com, Advance Local’s media outlet in Alabama.
Dean Mark J. Lodato of Newhouse School emphasizes the importance of such collaborations with media platforms for fostering comprehensive local news coverage. He says, “While exhaustive investigative projects take time to report, they can deliver a lasting positive impact on communities.”
The program also highlights the importance of investigative reporting in journalism education. Jodi Upton, Knight Chair in Data and Explanatory Journalism at the Newhouse School, underscores the necessity of data and documentation skills for understanding government operations and reporting on various beats.
Challen Stephens, director of investigations at Advance Local, who will lead the fellowship program, expresses enthusiasm about Lincoln’s role. “We are excited to have Finn helping research some of the larger investigative projects this year, and it’s been good to see him involved in local news as well,” Stephens remarks, expecting to see Lincoln’s continued contributions.
