IRE Announces New ‘Diana Fuentes Service to IRE Award,’ Names Liz Lucas First Recipient

The staff of Investigative Reporters & Editors has named Liz Lucas, former IRE senior training director, as the recipient of the inaugural Diana Fuentes Service to IRE Award, named in honor of IRE’s late executive director to recognize outstanding volunteer contributions to the organization and the global community of investigative journalists it serves.

“Liz's contributions to IRE as a member, training director, mentor and beloved friend can’t be overstated,” said IRE’s interim Executive Director Lauren Grandestaff. “Liz is a brilliant journalist, a kind and patient leader and has the most generous heart - all qualities that made Diana so special to everyone she met. Diana cared for her deeply and would be so happy to see Liz honored in her name."

Lucas first worked at IRE as a graduate student, then served as the NICAR database library director before becoming senior training director. She is currently the Houston Harte Chair in Journalism at the University of Missouri-Columbia’s Missouri School of Journalism. 

The Diana Fuentes Service to IRE Award honors exceptional volunteer contributions to IRE and the global community of investigative journalists it serves. 

Established in 2026, the award commemorates Diana Fuentes, IRE’s beloved former executive director, who died unexpectedly on March 20, 2026. Fuentes was deeply committed to IRE’s mission, championing diversity and inclusion while expanding affordability and access for members.

“Diana was humble and did so much in service of others, often without anyone knowing,” said IRE Board President Josh Hinkle. “She gave an incredible amount of time, energy and love to IRE. I think she’d appreciate that this award, in her name, honors people who show that same kind of dedication.”

Each year, IRE staff will select one recipient — someone who is not compensated by the organization — whose volunteer service reflects Fuentes’ impact and commitment. The honoree must be an active IRE member and cannot receive the award in consecutive years. 

The award will be announced each May and includes a one-year IRE membership renewal, a ticket to the IRE Awards Luncheon at the annual IRE Conference in June, and a commemorative plaque presented during the event. 

During this year’s conference, Fuentes will also be inducted posthumously into IRE’s Ring of Honor – an initiative established in 2022 to celebrate members who have made a significant contribution to the organization and to investigative journalism. People may also donate to an IRE training fund established in her name to help future generations of journalists.