Joe Stephens

Joe Stephens is the Ferris Professor of Journalism in Residence and founding director of Princeton University’s Program in Journalism. A veteran investigative reporter, he holds affiliations with the Princeton Humanities Council and serves as Faculty in Residence at Mathey College. His work focuses on political corruption, terrorism, international development, and ethical journalism practices.

Stephens joined The Washington Post’s investigative team in 1999, producing groundbreaking reports on topics ranging from drug experiments on children in developing nations to U.S. judicial systems. His reporting has triggered Congressional hearings, legislative reforms, and criminal convictions. He has reported globally, including in Europe, Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

• Awards: George Polk Award (3x), Pulitzer finalist (3x), Overseas Press Club, Gerald Loeb, and many others.
• Leadership: Directs the Newsmaker Dinner series and teaches courses on investigative journalism and media literacy.

He emphasizes research-driven reporting, leading student expeditions to document global issues like refugee crises, with resulting articles published in outlets including The New York Times.