Sharyn Alfonsi and Scott Pelley, former correspondents for the investigative news program "60 Minutes," have joined the Columbia Journalism School as journalists-in-residence for the upcoming academic year. The part-time positions involve delivering lectures and mentoring students in investigative reporting, as well as contributing articles to the Columbia Journalism Review, the school's publication on media issues.
The appointments were announced Monday by the Columbia Journalism School, where Dean Jelani Cobb praised both journalists for their distinguished careers. “These are two prime journalists,” Cobb said. “They weren’t just at a notable news organization. They were at the pre-eminent investigative broadcast news program.”
Alfonsi and Pelley’s departures from "60 Minutes" came amid internal conflicts earlier this year. Both journalists clashed with CBS News leadership, specifically with Bari Weiss, the network’s editor in chief, whom they accused of politicizing their reporting. CBS News opted not to renew Alfonsi’s contract, while Pelley was dismissed after confronting the show’s new executive producer, Nick Bilton, regarding staff restructuring.
Speaking about their transition to academia, Alfonsi emphasized the importance of in-depth journalism in the current environment, stating that “deep, rigorous and fearless reporting has never been more vital.” Pelley echoed this sentiment, highlighting the significance of a free press during challenging times.
Dean Cobb revealed that he contacted Pelley shortly after his dismissal from "60 Minutes" in June, expecting a challenging conversation given the circumstances. However, Pelley responded promptly, and negotiations with both journalists progressed quickly. The school kept the appointments confidential for several weeks before the official announcement.
The addition of Alfonsi and Pelley to Columbia’s faculty comes as journalism schools nationwide seek to reinforce investigative reporting skills amid ongoing debates about media credibility and political bias. Their experience at one of the most renowned broadcast news programs is expected to provide students with unique insights into the profession’s demands and challenges.