The New England Center for Investigative Reporting merged with WGBH News July 1, according to a Monday announcement.
NECIR, an investigative journalism nonprofit founded in 2009 at Boston University, has been housed within WGBH’s newsroom since the two organizations partnered in 2013.
According to the announcement, WGBH plans to hire more investigative journalists over the next year to work with Paul Singer, whom the two organizations jointly hired in 2018 as NECIR’s editor.
“Our audience listens to WGBH News as a trusted source for stories that go deeper than the headlines. Formalizing the relationship with NECIR shows that we are committed to investing in investigative reporting and sharing it across all our platforms,” said Phil Redo, GM for WGBH Radio and local news, in the release. “Over the years, we’ve worked closely to deliver some truly impactful stories. I look forward to continuing this effort.”
As part of the deal, WGBH will obtain NECIR’s 10-year-old story archive. Boston University will also continue to sponsor NECIR’s summer journalism training program for high school students. The university plans to work with WGBH to create a new training program for students through the station’s radio, TV and education departments, according to the release.
“This is a perfect scenario for NECIR, ensuring their work in investigative journalism will continue,” said Tom Fiedler, dean of BU’s College of Communication, in the release. “At the same time, it offers a greater number of learning opportunities for our students, exposing them to award-winning journalism at one of the most trusted platforms in the city. It’s truly a win for all involved.”