Staff

Aaron Schaffer is a journalist who writes about the Friendship Heights and Tenleytown neighborhoods for The Wash. He has written extensively about foreign lobbying and influence in Washington.

Abby Sussman is a graduate student seeking a Master's in Journalism and Digital Storytelling at American University. She is based in Baltimore, where she works as a multimedia producer.

I am a graduate journalism student and writer at American University covering the Woodley Park and Adams Morgan neighborhoods this semester.

I recently graduated from The George Washington University where I studied political science and journalism.

Alex Ellerbeck is a graduate student in journalism at American University. She covers the neighborhoods of Bloomingdale and NOMA for The Wash.

Alex Fernandez is a returning School of Communication Alumni at American University, pursuing his Master's (MA) in Investigative Reporting. He has previously worked independently since graduating American University in 2019.

Alex Lucas is a candidate on the broadcast journalism track in the American University School of Communication Journalism and Public Affairs Masters Degree program. He has a passion for news beat reporting in Arlington, Virginia. He is a native of Washington DC, currently residing in Gainesville Virginia.

Alexandra Rivera is a graduate journalism student at American University. She specializes in Broadcast journalism and works with investigative data in the Washington Post Practicum class. She covers the Southwest Waterfront and Navy Yard communities for The Wash. Previously, she was an intern at North Country Public Radio in Upstate New York.

I'm a Broadcast Journalism Graduate student at American University. My background is in organization and producing audio stories across several different groups. I've worked on a home school paper and YouTube and Podcasting networks.

Alice Berry is a student journalist interested in longform reporting. She covers NoMa, Gallaudet and Trinidad for The Wash. In the past, she has covered hiring issues, health code violations and criminal justice as a staff reporter and editor-in-chief at Rhodes College.

Hola!
My name is Alyssa Royster, and I am a graduate broadcast journalism student at American University in Washington, D.C.. I’m excited to be in graduate school because it means getting that much closer to achieving my dream of one day being an anchor on Good Morning America or NBC News. I aspire to be the next Katie Couric and Hoda Kotb. A little bit about me is that I spent a year abroad in Argentina where I became fluent in Spanish, I’m bubbly, and love to hear and tell people’s stories.

Ana Álvarez is a Puerto Rican graduate student pursuing a degree in Journalism and Public Affairs with a specialization in investigative journalism. She covers the NoMa community for The Wash.

My name is Aneeta Mathur-Ashton, a D.C.-based journalist pursuing a master's in international journalism from American University’s School of Communication. My reporting background is in domestic and foreign politics, with an emphasis on foreign policy.

I’m an investigative journalism fellow at the Investigative Reporting Workshop in Washington, D.C.

My work has concentrated on rural Kentucky communities, told stories about presidents and followed coal ash contaminants in municipal water systems.

I’m a graduate journalism student at American University where I participate in The Washington Post practicum team. I also serve as president of AU’s School of Communication Graduate Student Council.

In my past adventures, I was a city government newspaper reporter, NPR intern and, once, the mascot for a local radio station; everyone starts somewhere.

Aseasoned Multimedia Journalist and Digital, Social Media Producer with many years of experience in Television and Radio production, Digital Media, Broadcast Journalism, Online and Social Media. My experience in TV production, digital journalism and specifically, extensive work in social media and online technologies for many years, where I expanded and developed various platforms. I am highly aware of the current day trends and demands of an effective online social media outcome.

Bibars Nakhesh is a video journalist at the Middle Eastern Broadcasting Network and a graduate student at American University's Journalism and Digital Storytelling program.

Braeden Waddell is a senior studying journalism and Spanish.

I'm an investigative reporter earning my master's at American University. I'm also a Washington Post practicum student and Investigative Reporting Workshop graduate assistant.

Caroline is a freelance multimedia journalist covering fashion, youth culture, and technology. She is currently a graduate student reporter at The Washington Post. She is a travel junkie and has lived between America, Ireland, Singapore, and the Netherlands.

Los Angeles native who is passionate about writing and radio.

Chris Casey is an investigative journalist and Journalism and Public Affairs masters student at American University. He is currently partaking in the Practicum at The Washington Post.

Currently an American University graduate journalist in the journalism + digital storytelling program documenting what stops me in my tracks.

Writer. Content Curator. Storyteller.

I am coming to you from the southern roots of South Carolina! I am covering beats in Woodley Park & Adams Morgan. As a journalist, I strive to illustrate each story to its fullest.

Courtney CJ Jacobs is a Student Reporter at American University, studying Journalism and Public Affairs for his Master's Degree.

(he/him/his)
25 yr old broadcast journalism grad student at AU.
Bartending and baking enthusiast.
Cat dad.

Elise Dean is a journalism masters student at American University. Her work covers Shaw, U Street and Logan Circle.

She also hosts a female-empowerment podcast called She+ that shares the extraordinary stories of everyday women.

I’m an investigative journalist covering public health, racial injustice and gender inequality. I am a graduate student at American University, currently working as a graduate assistant for Dr. Sherri Williams.

I have written articles for Her Campus, Ash & Rose and Live With Plum, focusing on social issues such as gender inequality and poverty. In 2020, I covered young feminist heroes making strides against period poverty and sexual assault awareness.

I’m a graduate student in international journalism and public affairs at American University, focusing on immigration and emigration in Europe, as well as climate change.

I’m currently working as a Washington, D.C., correspondent for the publication i-Italy, investigating news such as the growth of Italian language programs in the United States.

I also report on energy sustainability for the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions, including a unique partnership between the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and local businesses.

Emily Seymour is pursuing a master’s degree in journalism, with a concentration in investigative journalism, from American University. She is a reporting fellow with the Investigative Reporting Workshop. She covers Arlington in her role at The Wash.

Graduate Journalism student at American Univeristy, '22. Highlighting politics, human rights, and anything else that sparks interest.

Grace currently writes for The Wash. She is thrilled to be covering Shaw, U Street, and Logan Circle.

Haley Murphy is a MA candidate and graduate ambassador at American University School of Communication. She is a former Associate Producer for ViacomCBS in Sacramento, California and is focusing her studies on broadcast journalism.

Hayden Godfrey is a journalist currently pursuing a Master of Arts (MA) in Journalism & Public Affairs at American University. He covers Foggy Bottom and George Washington University for the Wash.

Heather MacNeil is a Washington, D.C. based investigative reporter earning a graduate degree in journalism and public affairs with a specialty in investigative reporting at American University.

Heidi Kirk is a Washington, D.C.-based reporter interested in covering human interest and politics. In the past, Heidi has reported for The Arkansas Traveler, Work It Daily and has held multiple broadcast television internships.

Heidi is currently a graduate student at American University, where she reports for the Investigative Reporting Workshop. She covers Dupont Circle for The Wash.

Ibrahim 'Abe' Aksoy is a graduate student at American University pursuing a master's degree in journalism and public affairs international specialty. Abe is also an investigative reporting intern at the Investigative Reporting Workshop where he covers immigration.

My name is Ikechukwu Mbagwu, a Graduate Broadcast Journalism Student at American University. As well as, a long-time Jallof Rice enthusiast! Now let's get excited!

Ileana Garnand is pursuing a master's degree in investigative reporting at American University. They cover the Woodley Park and Cleveland Park neighborhoods for The Wash and are a fellow at the Center for Public Integrity.

Jacob Wallace is a Master's Candidate of Journalism & Public Affairs at American University. He is currently a Digital Intern at NBC Washington and student in Practicum at the Washington Post.

Journalist, Mountaineer, Veteran
I'm a journalist based out of Washington, D.C. and an avid rock climber, mountaineer, and cyclist. After I earned my bachelor's in Philosophy from the United States Military Academy in 2013, I spent eight years in the Army. Now I want to bring the experiences of outdoor and mountain sports here in the United States to a larger audience, helping to educate and engage the public not only about the sports but the greater environmental conservation necessary to sustain them.

I am a broadcast and storytelling journalist earning my master’s at American University. I am interested in covering equity and social justice issues.

I am a multimedia journalist based in Washington, D.C., with a passion for innovative methods such as infographics and design. I am pursuing my Master's degree at American University in journalism and public affairs.

Kayla Gallagher is a graduate student at American University studying journalism and public affairs with a specialization in investigative reporting. She has reported on the Florida House of Representatives for WFSU Public Media and activism in Tallahassee, FL for the FSView & Florida Flambeau. She received her Bachelors Degree from Florida State University in Digital Media Production and Political Science.

Keely Bastow is a graduate student in Journalism and Public Affairs at American University's School of Communication. She is interested in international politics and is currently living in Washington D.C.

Keith Newell is a graduate student at American University, studying investigative journalism. He is based in McLean, Va.

Kimberly Cataudella (she/her) is covering Shaw and U Street for The Wash while completing her master's degree in investigative journalism at American University.

Kristen Johnson is a journalism graduate student at American University.

Lauren Berryman is a master's candidate at American University's School of Communication pursuing a degree in Journalism and Public Affairs. At The Wash, she covers news in the Bethesda-Chevy Chase area. She also works as a graduate researcher and reporter at the Investigative Reporting Workshop. Berryman graduated from Wake Forest University in May 2021 where she studied Health and Exercise Science, Journalism and Bioethics. She primarily covers health and environmental beats.

Lauren Lumpkin is a student journalist pursuing a master's degree at American University. She covers Anacostia and other communities in Southeast Washington for The Wash.

AU Broadcast Graduate Student.

Lola Fadulu covers health in Southeast Washington for The Wash.

M is a Baltimore-based journalist concentrated on investigative reporting. They focus on covering the criminal justice system, human rights issues and the LGBTQ+ community. This autumn they're reporting on Montgomery County for The Wash.

I'm a journalist at American University. I enjoy covering stories that deal with education and crime.

Masters student at American University. Journalist and storyteller. Notorious Wi-Fi Ganondorf.

Maya Smith is a journalist interested in finding answers to questions about race, mental health, and equity. She covers Georgetown for The Wash.

Megan is a D.C.-based journalist pursuing a master's in investigative journalism and public affairs at American University. She focuses on covering policy and social issues. She reports on Foggy Bottom and West End for The Wash.

Mike Pesoli is a graduate journalism student at American University. He is a broadcast journalist and digital storyteller. Mike is passionate about community reporting and arts and entertainment journalism. He lives in Washington, D.C.

www.mikepesoli.com

Molly Feser is a journalism graduate student at American University. Her work covers Foggy Bottom and West End.

Muhammed is a graduate student at American University, reporting on community news for the city of Alexandria, Virginia.

He is a technical communicator who enjoys breaking down scientific topics into digestible, engaging chunks for people to enjoy and understand.

My goal as a journalist is to inform, inspire, and entertain! I am a Macon, Ga native excited to be covering one of D.C.'s largest neighborhoods, Petworth.

Nami is a graduate student at American University pursuing a master's in Journalism and Public Affairs. She has worked for Nikkei, a leading Japanese business paper for 13 years. She covers Bethesda and Chevy Chase neighborhood in her role at The Wash.

Nick Trombola is an American University graduate student based out of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He was previously a breaking-news reporter for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and has written about topics ranging from Covid-19's effect on nursing homes to the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests.

Nicole Yu is a graduate student studying broadcast journalism at American University. She is passionate about the Asian American community and women's rights. Nicole is originally from San Jose, Calif. where she has four dogs who she loves dearly, but she currently lives in Washington, D.C.

Olivia Diaz is the American University fellow at The Washington Post, where she works in the newsroom by day and is obtaining her Master of Arts in journalism come night when she writes for TheWash. Last year, Olivia worked at The Post and Courier in Charleston, South Carolina as a crime reporter. Olivia is a University of Richmond alumna and proud Yankees fan.

I’m a graduate student studying investigative reporting at American University, where I report local news. I’m also a volunteer for The Eagle, American University’s student newspaper, where I’ve covered the Capital Pride Parade. In the past, I was a reporter and online editor for my college newspaper The Tower, where I produced content about education, social issues and college culture.

I am a Washington D.C.-based reporter pursuing a master’s degree in journalism and public affairs at American University and working as a political/investigative fellow at USA Today. I cover Arlington County for The Wash.

Rebekah is a multimedia reporter and graduate student at American University with a passion for telling stories about the world in a creative way for digital audiences.

Riddhi Setty is a journalism major at American University and an aspiring investigative journalist. She is interested in covering issues that impact local communities.

I'm Ron Simon III, a journalism graduate student at American University. I cover all things National Landing as a beat for The Wash.

Rosa Rad is a student in the AU School of Communications focusing on Journalism & Digital Storytelling. Her interests include progressive movements, immigration justice, and issues relevant to diaspora communities. Rosa will graduate with a Masters degree in May 2023.

Rosie Hughes is journalism graduate student and research assistant at American University focusing on audio storytelling, reporting and production.

Samantha Eley is a graduate student seeking a Master's Journalism and Public Affairs, Investigative Specialty. Samantha covers Dupont Circle for The Wash.

Sarah Salem is on the international track in the Journalism and Public Affairs program. She is a 2019 graduate of William and Mary with a bachelor's in Economics and Russian & Post-Soviet Studies. She spent the past year working as an analyst for a defense contractor, where she analyzed and compiled news articles and social media mentions in Russian and in English for clients. In her free time, she likes to read about economics and the Israel-Palestine conflict, listen to or arrange music, or watch reality tv.

Sarah is an investigative journalism graduate student at American University with an interest in politics and global affairs. She is the Columbia Heights beat reporter for this publication. When she's not out exploring DC neighborhoods for stories, Sarah enjoys traveling, a good book and a strong drink (coffee or otherwise).

Savannah is a graduate student at American University pursuing a master's in Journalism and Public Affairs. She is the current USA Today Washington Watchdog fellow with the bureau's politics and investigative teams. Previously, she reported for publications in and around Houston covering local politics and community news.

Graduate journalism student at American University

Shant Mirzaians is an investigative journalist interested in government affairs and local activism. He is currently on the West Coast and acting as the Wash's Los Angeles Bureau correspondent.

Shelby Fishman is a multimedia student journalist specializing in broadcast news. She majored in journalism at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas and is continuing her education at American University.

She has written for Modern Luxury magazine and is currently an assistant commerce editor at MarketWatch and Dow Jones.

I'm Shwetha Surendran, a journalism graduate student at American University. I cover all things NoMa as a beat for The Wash.

I’m a graduate broadcast student at American University covering social justice issues. I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in English from Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, where I was Co-Editor-in-Chief of the campus literary journal, Brushing, a regular contributor to the award-winning magazine The Independent and a staff writer for the school paper, The Sandspur. Also, I’m a professional comic book grader.

I am seeking a masters at American University for investigative journalism where I am also completing an assistantship with the IRW. At my undergraduate college, Clemson University, I wrote for the Tiger newspaper. I am a staff writer for Zeal & Pristine and Baby Z, and write lifestyle posts for my personal blog, SoupScribbles.

Sophie Austin is a master's student studying journalism and an American University fellow at the Center for Public Integrity. She has interned at The Dallas Morning News and PolitiFact. Austin completed a Dow Jones News Fund data journalism residency with Investigative Reporters and Editors instructors.

Taylor Ardrey is a graduate student and multimedia journalist at American University. She graduated with a bachelor's degree in Media, Journalism & Film from Howard University. She is currently a practicum student at The Washington Post and serves as the graduate ambassador for AU's School of Communications. Catch her covering local stories in the District with 5in. heels.

Tobi Raji is a graduate journalism student interested in international politics and the welfare of immigrants, migrants and refugees. She covers Capitol Hill for The Wash and is a part of The Washington Post practicum team.

She is also an AmeriCorps and Rutgers University alumna.

I am a graduate student journalist at American University with experience investigating social issues and public affairs. I am currently acting as The Wash's Downtown reporter, with a specific focus on the Gallery Place and Chinatown area.

With my B.A. in Communication and current pursuing M.A. in Journalism & Digital Storytelling, I have a passion for finding innovative ways to tell stories across digital platforms.

Verónica Del Valle is a multimedia journalist, interested in questions of power, equity, and government. She covers Crystal City, Potomac Yard, and Arlandria for The Wash and loves a good crossword puzzle, but usually gives up halfway through.

I’m a DC-based Kuwaiti journalist working on a graduate degree in international journalism at American University. Politics and culture by day, insomnia and fiction by night.

Zeina is a graduate student in AU's Investigative Journalism program with an interest in reporting on race and immigration. A DMV native with a love for the city's Black history, she covers Shaw/U Street and Silver Spring.

Zoë Watkins is a journalist interested in immigration, foreign policy, climate change, and culture. She currently covers Columbia Heights for The Wash. When Zoë isn't writing, she's watching international dramas or studying languages on Duolingo.