What a year it has been! I just completed my first year as a San Diego Union-Tribune reporter and never could have imagined the crazy stories and experiences that came my way. I spent most of the year on the local community team, covering the six school districts and businesses located in San Diego’s South Bay. In April, I transitioned to the U-T’s Watchdog team and I am loving it. The most amazing part of my first year was winessing the impact journalism can have on a government entity and community. I was flabbergasted at the actions of some government leaders and simultaneously inspired by the community’s engagement and desire for accountability. The series of articles published over the last year helped sound the alarm on a superintendent’s questionable activities, ultimately contributing to his termination. Others have also been ousted following investigations I conducted or contributed to as a member of The Watchdog team, including a cafeteria boss, a grade changing principal, a food distributor, and soon, the district’s pricey general counsel. While it remains to be seen what the coming year might bring, I am excited for what lies ahead and trust I will be busier than ever. Though at times it seems there is no end to the corruption, my desire is that my reporting will continue protecting taxpayer dollars and that I may continue to serve as the public’s advocate for transparency and accountability. Here’s to another year!
