Business
Remembering Ina Jaffe: A Pioneer in Journalism
Explore the life and legacy of Ina Jaffe, a trailblazing journalist who broke barriers and shaped the industry. Discover her impactful stories, dedication to truth, and the inspiration she provided to countless aspiring journalists.
Ina Jaffe, a distinguished correspondent for NPR for nearly four decades, passed away on Thursday at the age of 75. Renowned for her tenacious and unyielding approach to journalism, she was instrumental in shaping the network’s early programming, notably serving as the first editor of the original weekly national news show, “Weekend Edition Saturday.” The details surrounding her passing were not disclosed, but NPR confirmed that Ms. Jaffe had been bravely battling metastatic breast cancer for several years.
Colleagues often referred to her as a “reporter’s reporter,” highlighting her exceptional ability to discern the fine line between fairness and injustice. Over the years, her journalistic expertise expanded significantly. She began her career covering the political beat, but as time progressed, her focus shifted to in-depth analyses that explored the complexities of aging in America.
In addition to her work on “Weekend Edition,” Ms. Jaffe made significant contributions to the daily afternoon news program “All Things Considered.” Her reporting was marked by a commitment to uncovering the truth and advocating for those often overlooked.
In a notable report in 2012, Ms. Jaffe investigated the Department of Veterans Affairs in Los Angeles, exposing a troubling situation where large portions of its campus, originally designated for homeless veterans, were leased to unrelated businesses. Her diligent reporting played a crucial role in bringing attention to this issue, ultimately leading the administration to allocate more land for the development of housing for homeless veterans. This investigation culminated in accountability when, in 2018, two individuals involved in the lease agreements were sentenced on fraud charges.
Her impactful series not only garnered attention but also received prestigious accolades, including an award from the Society of Professional Journalists and a Gracie Award from the Alliance for Women in Media, testament to her dedication and skill in journalism.