Class of 2025 Recognized at Columbia Journalism School’s August Graduation

Columbia Journalism School celebrated its August 16 graduation ceremony, honoring 34 recipients of M.S. degrees in the Data Journalism, Part-Time and Documentary programs. Graduates showcased investigative reporting projects, data-driven stories, documentary films and other work addressing pressing social issues worldwide.

Dean and Henry R. Luce Professor of Journalism Jelani Cobb opened the ceremony, congratulating graduates on their hard work and welcoming families and friends.

“We reported, we taught, we learned, we studied and we produced work that meets the bar that Columbia Journalism School has long been distinguished by,” said Dean Cobb. 

Multi-Emmy Award-winning journalist and documentary filmmaker Hind Hassan delivered the keynote address, drawing on her years of reporting from conflict zones and humanitarian crises. Hassan, whose work has appeared on VICE News, Middle East Eye, Al Jazeera and Sky News, encouraged graduates to be clear in what type of journalist they are. 

"The public is increasingly turning toward your voices," said Hassan during her remarks. "That is why you must be clear about what type of journalist you are: one grounded in ethics and humanity. If you remain committed to the truth, you cannot fail." 

Following the formal program, graduates, guests and faculty gathered for a reception in Pulitzer Hall’s World Room, celebrating with classmates and mentors.

Graduates pursuing nonprofit journalism careers may be eligible for the Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP), which helps support early-career journalists in public-interest newsrooms.

Learn more about LRAP and how it can support your journalism career here.