ProPublica Announces Inaugural Data Fellow: Kenneth Morales to Champion Government Transparency
ProPublica, a leading investigative journalism organization, has announced Kenneth Morales as its first-ever David Burnham-TRAC Data Fellow. This two-year fellowship marks a significant investment in data-driven journalism, aiming to illuminate the complexities of government operations and the real-world impact of federal policies. If you’re interested in the intersection of data, accountability, and public service, this announcement is a pivotal moment.
Honoring a Legacy of Investigative Journalism
The fellowship is named in honor of David Burnham, a dedicated investigative journalist who spent five decades exposing corruption within law enforcement and government agencies. Funding for this crucial role comes from David Sobel and Beth Critchley, demonstrating a shared commitment to upholding Burnham’s legacy.
Sobel emphasized Burnham’s pioneering spirit, stating he was “a pioneering investigative journalist who believed in speaking truth to power.” He further highlighted burnham’s early adoption of rigorous data analysis as a cornerstone of impactful reporting – skills that are more vital now than ever.
Kenneth Morales: A Proven Track Record
Morales brings a wealth of experience to ProPublica, most recently serving as a Senior Data Scientist at the New York State Attorney General’s office. His work there spanned a diverse range of critical investigations, including:
* Firearms Industry: Analyzing data related to gun sales and distribution.
* Pharmaceutical manufacturers: Investigating pricing practices and potential misconduct.
* Lead Exposure: Examining the impact of lead contamination in public schools.
* Civil Rights: supporting investigations into law enforcement practices.
* Antitrust Litigation: Providing data analysis for complex legal cases.
Notably, Morales was the primary data analyst for the Attorney General’s report on fraudulent comments submitted during the Federal Communications Commission’s net neutrality rulemaking process.Prior to his work with the Attorney General, he conducted vital research at Johns Hopkins University, focusing on the emerging opioid crisis and the rise of fentanyl.
Why This Fellowship Matters
Ken Schwencke, Senior Editor for Data and News Applications at ProPublica, underscored the growing importance of this role. “Federal data is becoming more scarce as the importance of the government’s actions only grow,” he explained. “We’re grateful to be able to bring on more people to cover it.”
This fellowship directly addresses a critical need: ensuring robust, data-driven oversight of government actions. It’s about holding power accountable and providing the public with the information they need to understand the policies that effect their lives.
Morales’ Vision for the Future
morales himself expressed his long-standing admiration for ProPublica’s commitment to independent, impactful journalism. “For years I have been an admirer of ProPublica’s investigative reportage, their independence and their drive to hold power to account,” he stated.
He’s passionate about leveraging data science for social justice and is eager to apply his skills during this “critical American moment.” This dedication signals a promising future for data-driven investigations at ProPublica.
Evergreen Insights: the Growing Importance of Data Journalism
The appointment of Kenneth Morales isn’t just a win for ProPublica; it’s a reflection of a broader trend in journalism. Data journalism is rapidly becoming essential for uncovering hidden patterns, exposing wrongdoing, and informing the public.
Here’s why you should pay attention to this field:
* Increased Complexity: Government and corporate operations are increasingly complex, requiring refined analytical tools to understand.
* Data Abundance: While access to some data is shrinking, the sheer volume of available data continues to grow, presenting opportunities for insightful analysis.
* Demand for Accountability: Citizens are demanding greater transparency and accountability from institutions, fueling the need for investigative journalism.
* Combating Misinformation: Data-driven reporting provides a powerful antidote to misinformation and “fake news.”
Frequently Asked questions About the ProPublica Data Fellowship
1. What is the primary focus of the David Burnham-TRAC Data Fellowship?
The fellowship centers on using data analysis to investigate the inner workings of the government and the impact of federal policies on citizens.
2. Who is David Burnham, and why is the fellowship named after him?
David Burnham was a pioneering investigative journalist known for his 50-year career exposing corruption in law enforcement and government. The fellowship honors his legacy of rigorous data-driven reporting.
**3. What kind of experience does Kenneth Morales
