In a vibrant setting reminiscent of an active newsroom, students and professional journalists gathered at Hillel's multipurpose room to kick off the four-week Spring Term workshop titled "Follow the Money." Led by renowned business journalism professor Alecia Swasy, this intensive program aimed to enhance participants' financial literacy and investigative skills. Through interactive sessions, hands-on training, and networking opportunities, attendees delved into forensic accounting, data analysis, and source navigation. The event not only inspired budding journalists but also provided seasoned professionals with fresh perspectives on their craft.
A Unique Learning Experience in Business Journalism
On a crisp spring day in late April, amidst the hum of anticipation, twelve students from Washington and Lee University joined visiting journalists at Hillel’s multipurpose room for the inaugural session of the “Follow the Money” workshop. Organized by Professor Alecia Swasy, this three-day event sought to equip aspiring reporters with the tools necessary to uncover hidden narratives within corporate documents and balance sheets. Attendees included recent alumni already working in journalism as well as industry veterans like Pulitzer Prize winners Walt Bogdanich and Michael Forsythe, whose expertise illuminated the complexities of investigative reporting.
As part of the curriculum, students were divided into teams and tasked with researching specific companies for their final projects. These assignments encouraged them to apply newly acquired skills in forensic accounting and data interpretation under the guidance of experts such as Andy Lehren and Tom Contiliano. By blending theoretical knowledge with practical application, the workshop fostered both academic growth and professional development.
Beyond technical training, the gathering offered invaluable networking opportunities. Participants shared insights during informal dinners and collaborative lunches, creating connections that transcend traditional classroom boundaries. For instance, economics major Josh Darrow expressed excitement about meeting fellow interns while Austin Evans appreciated the chance to engage with masters of the field, citing his grandmother’s love for “All the President’s Men” as inspiration.
The Donald W. Reynolds Foundation funded the initiative, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing future generations of business journalists. Through endowments and internships, it ensures young talents gain exposure to real-world scenarios early in their careers.
From San Francisco-based Tyler Rothwell discovering newfound interest in investigative journalism to Vic Ernst preparing for her role in information services, each participant found unique value in the experience. Even those outside the direct scope of journalism benefited; Grace Mamon highlighted how diverse offerings at W&L bolstered her career prospects significantly.
An Eye-Opening Journey into Investigative Reporting
This workshop serves as a testament to the transformative power of experiential learning in journalism education. It bridges gaps between theory and practice, empowering students to think critically and act decisively when faced with complex datasets or ambiguous sources. Moreover, it underscores the importance of mentorship and community building within the profession. Aspiring journalists leave not only better equipped technically but also more confident in navigating ethical dilemmas inherent in holding powerful entities accountable.
Ultimately, the "Follow the Money" program exemplifies what meaningful educational initiatives should strive for—inspiring curiosity, fostering collaboration, and preparing individuals for impactful roles in society. Whether pursuing investigative journalism or other fields requiring rigorous research, participants emerge ready to tackle challenges head-on, armed with enhanced analytical capabilities and renewed dedication towards truth-seeking endeavors.