WPLN’s criminal justice reporter Samantha Max has received WBUR’s 2021 Daniel Schorr Journalism Prize for her investigation with APM Reports “Behind the Blue Wall: Officers describe a ‘toxic’ culture within Metro Police.”
A former Report for America corps member, Max is among nearly 60 up-and-coming public radio journalists considered this year for the prize.
“Supporting these incredible journalists has never been more important,” says Jim Bildner, who has supported the prize since its inception. “Max’s work is another example of why it matters.”
Max’s reporting calls into question officers’ treatment of their own. She spoke to Metro Nashville police employees about their experiences with the force.
“I feel humbled to join a group of journalists whose work I admire and who I consider to be my role models,” Max says. “I am especially grateful to the 25 current and former MNPD employees who trusted me with their stories and who risked so much in the hopes of improving an institution that is supposed to keep all of us safe.”
WPLN senior editor Chas Sisk worked with Max and APM Reports on the investigation.
“Sam has done work that has changed lives and brought greater accountability to Nashville police,” Sisk said. “And she’s produced a story that is compelling, thought-provoking and compassionate.”
Max will receive the prize at WBUR’s gala, “Bright Nights.” She recently completed three years of reporting at WPLN News, and her journalism will continue at New York’s public radio station WNYC.
The prize is named for late NPR senior news analyst Daniel Schorr, who believed in supporting talented, young journalists. The annual $5,000 award, sponsored by WBUR and funded since its inception in 2007 by Jim and Nancy Bildner, recognizes public radio reporters under 35.
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