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Date and Location
Caroline Kracunas
Join reporters from the 2026 Goldsmith Prize for Investigative Reporting finalist teams for an inside look at how they uncovered major stories shaping U.S. public policy this year.
Designed with public policy students in mind, this panel will delve into how ambitious investigative reporting actually gets done: navigating opaque institutions, using public records and lawsuits to force transparency, and often building data sets that government hasn’t built for itself. And they will talk about how their complex findings drive change—via legislation, regulation, and oversight. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the critical role journalism plays in democratic systems, and how it shapes policy agendas, informs lawmakers, and holds power accountable.
The discussion will be followed by an open Q&A, giving audience members the chance to ask the reporters about their methods, findings, and the real‑world impact of their work.
Panelists:
Brian Howey, Mississippi Today, “Abuse of Power: Beyond the Goon Squad”
Hannah Dreier, The New York Times, “Exposed and Expendable”
Alexandra Glorioso, Tampa Bay Times, “Hope Florida”
David Yaffe-Bellany, The New York Times, “President Trump’s Self Enrichment”
Megan Rose, ProPublica, “Rx Roulette”
Craig Whitlock, Washington Post, “VA Disability Benefits Investigation”
Moderator: Betsy Fischer Martin, 2026 Goldsmith Prize for Investigative Reporting judge
This event will be in-person only. Please be prepared to show a picture ID to a designated event staffer at the Taubman Building entrance to Harvard Kennedy School, 15 Eliot Street. When you register, you are placed on our VIP list. You will simply need to tell the security guard your name.