2016 Investigative Reporting for Print/Online (Large Staff) Finalist: Annie Waldman

About the Entry

Following this investigation of New Jersey’s student loan program — marked by stringent rules, aggressive collections and few reprieves — Gov. Chris Christie signed a reform bill ending the program’s most onerous practice.

Comments from the Judges

“This is a very well-reported series … It combines powerful personal material with policy analysis. And it brought results in legislation and new policies.”

“The convergence of data reporting and holding government accountable makes this compelling. The abuse of power was stunning to see and actually forced its governor to take on a sector that perhaps wasn’t a priority at first but this reporting made it so.”