SMPA Professor Named to 2026 Journalism Hall of Fame

Cheryl W. Thompson, an associate professor of journalism at the School of Media and Public Affairs and an award-winning investigative journalist, who has been named one of the Society of Professional Journalists DC Pro's 2026 Hall of Fame honorees. The honor recognizes journalists who have made significant contributions to the profession and the Washington, D.C., journalism community.

Thompson is an investigative correspondent for NPR and senior editor overseeing member station investigations. At GW, she teaches investigative reporting and mentors the next generation of journalists. She is also the author of the upcoming book, "Forgotten Souls: The Search for the Lost Tuskegee Airmen."

Throughout her career, Thompson has earned more than 40 journalism awards, including a Pulitzer Prize and an Emmy Award. In December 2024, she received the Legacy Award from the Washington Association of Black Journalists in recognition of her work to break barriers and lead efforts to open more opportunities to people of color in journalism.