Cheryl W. Thompson

Cheryl W. Thompson is an Associate Professor of Journalism at the George Washington University's School of Media & Public Affairs within the Columbian College of Arts & Sciences. She has over 25 years of investigative journalism experience at major outlets like The Washington Post and NPR. Her work has led to significant legal outcomes, including the prosecution of Jack Johnson, and has earned her over 40 awards.

Education:

• Undergraduate and Graduate Work: University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
• Certificate in Investigative Reporting: Poynter Institute

Research Focus: Investigative and accountability journalism specializing in criminal justice, political corruption, and systemic inequities. Her reporting often addresses racial covenants in property deeds and police-involved shootings.

Awards Overview:

• Pulitzer Prize contributions (2016, 2021)
• Emmy Award (2011)
• NABJ Salute to Excellence Awards (20+)

Leadership Roles: Immediate Past President and Chairman of Investigative Reporters and Editors (first Black president in its history), founding board member of the Center for Collaborative Investigative Journalism, and founder of GW's NABJ student chapter.