Getting to know Kimbriell Kelly of The Washington Post

Meleah Holmes, a student at Norfolk State University and a 2016 CAR Conference Knight Scholar, talks to Kimbriell Kelly, a investigative reporter at The Washington Post.

Holmes: In your own words, what is an investigative journalist?

Kelly: A reporter who produces in-depth work using thorough research, analysis and reporting methods to convey what they have found.

Holmes: Using one word, describe what type of journalist you are.

Kelly: Strategic.

Holmes: What interest you most about investigative journalism?

Kelly: The ability to tell in-depth stories, backed up by research, that are often untold and difficult to find.

Holmes: In one sentence, describe what you would like people who read your work to take away from it.

Kelly: I would like for them to have learned something new, and that the thing they learned challenged their prior beliefs or thinking on an issue.

Holmes: How are you most productive when completing a story/project?

Kelly: I'm most productive when I'm organized, empathetic, focused and open to learning something new and challenging my own beliefs.

Holmes: In five years, where do you see your career?

Kelly: I will still be doing investigative reporting, but perhaps editing as well.

Holmes: What is the best piece of advice you can offer to an aspiring investigative journalist/reporter?

Kelly: Learn a new skill and become the best at it.