New JMS organization creates space for aspiring investigative journalists

Students at San Diego State University who are interested in investigative journalism now have a new opportunity to build their skills. This past spring, students launched the Investigative Reporters and Editors student chapter on campus. 

Founded in 1975, IRE is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of investigative reporting. The student chapter at SDSU is one of only a few IRE student chapters in the country, marking a special milestone for the School of Journalism and Media Studies.

The idea for the organization began when Journalism Professor Amy Schmitz Weiss reached out to her students about starting an IRE chapter on campus. 

“I heard from the national organization of IRE that they were starting student chapters across the country and thought it would be great to start an IRE student chapter here at SDSU,” Schmitz Weiss said. “Our students can gain so much from being a part of the organization and gaining the skills and techniques of investigative journalism.”

The chapter officially became a recognized student organization in February and held its first meeting in March. 

Melanie De Los Santos, who served as social media manager and membership officer during the spring semester, said the group is still in its early stages, but she is excited to see where it goes. 

“My experience with the organization has been really good so far. Because we are still establishing ourselves as a student organization, there is still so much room for growth,” De Los Santos said. 

So far, the organization has hosted two guest speakers: Jake Kincaid, an investigative journalist from inewsource and MJ Durán, SDSU alum grad student who previously worked at Telemundo. 

Schmitz Weiss said the chapter is off to a good start. 

“Vanessa and the executive board did an amazing job of kicking off the chapter this spring and had some great meetings and guest speakers come to campus. I am excited to see what the student chapter will do next semester!” she said. 

As the chapter looks to expand, the executive board is encouraging more students to join. The organization offers a range of benefits for students interested in investigative journalism.  

“I think people should join IRE because of the many opportunities the organization grants student journalists. Not only through scholarships, but also mentorship programs and resources to strengthen investigative reporting,” De Los Santos said. “Students can also gain networking opportunities and meet others who share their same passion.”

For students interested in getting involved, email @[email protected] or follow @iresdsu on Instagram.