Brandeis names Pulitzer Prize-winning editor Martin Baron 2023 Richman Fellow

Photo/courtesy

Martin Baron

Martin Baron, a renowned journalist who has overseen coverage and investigations leading to 18 Pulitzer Prizes, has been named the 2023 Richman Distinguished Fellow in Public Life.

Baron led the Washington Post's newsroom as its executive editor from 2013 until his retirement last year. The Post won 11 Pulitzer Prizes during his tenure, including for its coverage of the assault on the Capitol on January 6, 2021, and investigations of the National Security Agency and the presidential campaign of Donald Trump.

Before the Post, Baron was editor of the Boston Globe from 2001 to 2012. The Globe's investigation of the Catholic Church’s concealment of clergy sex abuse was awarded a Pulitzer Prize in 2003 and was portrayed in the Academy Award-winning film "Spotlight" in 2015.

Baron will visit campus in March for a residency that will include an award ceremony and public presentation, and events that will engage the university community.

“Brandeis’ motto is ‘Truth, even unto its innermost parts,’ and there are few people who exemplify that better than Martin Baron, who has dedicated his life to a steadfast pursuit of truth,” said Brandeis President Ron Liebowitz. “I look forward to welcoming him to campus this spring.”

The Richman Fellowship recognizes individuals active in public life whose contributions have had a significant impact on improving American society, strengthening democratic institutions, advancing social justice, or increasing opportunities for all citizens. The annual award includes a $25,000 prize.

The fellowship was created by Dr. Carol Richman Saivetz '69, along with her children, Michael Saivetz '97 and Aliza Saivetz Glasser '01, in honor of her parents, Fred and Rita Richman. Recent winners include disability rights activist Rebecca Cokley; playwright, actor, and educator Anna Deavere Smith; and human rights attorney Vanita Gupta.

Baron was nominated for the fellowship by Neil Swidey, professor of the practice and director of the journalism program at Brandeis.

“The ambitious works of journalism that Marty Baron has nurtured and defended have advanced social justice in the time-honored tradition of journalism: through illumination, accountability and humanity,” Swidey said. “He has also been a treasured mentor to hundreds of journalists from all backgrounds, helping them reach great heights while doing vital work to benefit society.”

The Richman Fellowship is hosted by the International Center for Ethics, Justice and Public Life on behalf of the Office of the President of Brandeis University.