Three-time Pulitzer Prize winning reporter speaks to Emerson students

11/04/09Three-time Pulitzer Prize winner Steve Kurkjian told a group of Emerson journalism students Monday that journalists work for the public and that there is a great deal of responsibility that comes with the position.

Kurkjian worked at The Boston Globe for 35 years and was an original member of the Investigative Spotlight Team. In 1972, Kurkjian was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Local Investigative Specialized Reporting for uncovering corruption in Somerville. In 1980, he won the Pulitzer for the coverage of the Boston transportation system and in 2003, he shared the prize for Public Service investigating the sexual abuse within the Catholic Church.

Fellow Globe reporter Brian McGrory once called him "the most feared and respected reporter in town."

Kurkjian told the students to do their homework and do the extra legwork when reporting, which included something he referred to as "patter." By this he meant that as reporters, they should be prepared when conducting interviews and investigating.

"What information are you seeking? Why are you asking? Do not ask unless you know what you are going to say," Kurkjian said.

Kurkjian said what defines a story is evidence. He told the students to push information and ask direct questions without being offensive, that in-depth reporting means having that extra quote or more evidence.

Kurkjian said that documentation plays a large role in the authenticity of a story, asserting that a reporter must exhaust all opportunities to get to the bottom of the story before finishing it. This will ensure that the story is fair and fairness is what defines a reporter.

Kurkjian encouraged the students to work hard, be dedicated and go for stories that make an impact.