Kaye LaFond is a reporter who employs her extensive data skills for the Traverse City Record-Eagle in Michigan. Her focus as a Report for America corps member is bringing thoroughly reported, meaningful analysis of the numbers behind assumptions and trends to the Record-Eagle’s readers. LaFond is an engineer-turned-reporter who covered science, the environment and tribal affairs during stints at Michigan Radio and Interlochen Public Radio. Her investigative journalism has highlighted failures of government and has been recognized with two regional Edward R. Murrow awards for Best Investigative Reporting and one for Best News Documentary as well as numerous awards from the Michigan Association of Broadcasters and the Michigan Associated Press Media Editors. Before becoming a full-time journalist, LaFond produced infographics and animations for the science communications team at the NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research Lab. She holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering from Michigan Technological University, as well as bachelor’s degrees in both Environmental Engineering and Applied Ecology. LaFond lives in northern Michigan.
Beat: Using data to tell stories of local and state issues and trends
There is a hunger in our region for thoroughly-reported, meaningful analysis of the numbers behind assumptions and trends. This strong data Reporter helps fill that gap, complementing our already strong enterprise and watchdog reporting. This beat dives deep into local and state data sets, either reporting or co-reporting enterprise projects alongside our beat Reporters. This Reporter is an integral part of our process, both as an independent Reporter and as a member of project reporting teams.