Meet the Center’s four staffers and six student interns.

A summary of what happened, news coverage and the Center’s response to Motion 999, the budget provision evicting the Center from the University of Wisconsin.

“We believe the Center can contribute much more in the future to Wisconsin citizens, faculty and students through its present location at the university. Thus, we respectfully request removal of language that would curtail what has been a productive and rewarding collaboration for all, providing students with pay, real-world experience and expanded opportunities for employment while helping residents understand major issues facing their communities.”

“In an age where print media is on a steady decline, funds to support the watchdog function of journalism are virtually non-existent. That’s why attacks by some in state government on the Center for Investigative Journalism are so deplorable.
And they hurt Wisconsin’s young people.”

“Beyond the impact of the stories it tells, the Center stands as a unique training ground for a new generation of young reporters learning the skills of investigative journalism under the guidance of executive director and former IRE Board member, Andy Hall. Targeting such work is indefensible.”

Motion 999 was approved 12-4 down party lines, with Republicans in the majority, around 6 a.m. The controversy and coverage began shortly afterward, from news organizations and groups across the nation and the political spectrum.

Charlie Sykes, a conservative radio host on Milwaukee’s WTMJ, came to the Center’s defense in a June 5 column, reprinted here from RightWisconsin.com.

The Wisconsin Center for Investigative Journalism swept the “Best Innovative Feature” category and took home five other awards at the Milwaukee Press Club’s annual awards celebration on Friday night. The Center was honored with two gold awards, four silver and two bronze in the club’s Awards for Excellence in Wisconsin Journalism, the state’s premiere all-media journalism competition.