Scott Pelley, Sharyn Alfonsi Named Columbia Journalism Residents

Veteran "60 Minutes" correspondents Scott Pelley and Sharyn Alfonsi have been appointed journalists-in-residence at Columbia University's School of Journalism. The prestigious appointment will commence for the 2026-2027 academic term, marking a significant engagement between seasoned broadcast journalists and aspiring media professionals. In their new roles, Pelley and Alfonsi are slated to work directly with students, offering their extensive experience and insights through a variety of educational avenues. These will include delivering lectures, conducting workshops, and participating in special events designed to enrich the students' understanding of journalistic practices and the evolving media landscape.

Both journalists bring decades of experience from their tenure at the iconic CBS News program "60 Minutes," a program renowned for its in-depth investigative reporting and long-form storytelling. Scott Pelley, a former anchor of the "CBS Evening News," has covered a vast array of significant global events and interviewed numerous world leaders and influential figures throughout his career. Sharyn Alfonsi, known for her sharp interviewing skills and tenacious reporting, has also covered critical issues ranging from politics and international affairs to social justice and economic challenges. Their collective expertise is expected to provide students with invaluable practical knowledge and a nuanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities within contemporary journalism.

The journalist-in-residence program at Columbia University's School of Journalism is a distinguished initiative that brings leading figures in the field to the academic environment. The program aims to bridge the gap between professional practice and academic learning, providing students with direct exposure to the realities of the industry. By engaging with experienced journalists like Pelley and Alfonsi, students can gain practical skills, understand ethical considerations, and develop critical thinking abilities essential for success in journalism. The appointment for the 2026-2027 academic term suggests a forward-looking approach by the university to prepare its students for the future of news gathering and dissemination.

Columbia University's School of Journalism is one of the oldest and most respected journalism schools in the world, consistently ranking among the top institutions for journalistic education. Its alumni include numerous Pulitzer Prize winners and leaders in media organizations globally. The addition of Scott Pelley and Sharyn Alfonsi to its faculty, even in a temporary capacity as residents, underscores the school's commitment to providing its students with access to the highest caliber of journalistic talent. This initiative is likely to foster a dynamic learning environment, inspiring the next generation of journalists to uphold the standards of integrity and excellence that Pelley and Alfonsi have long embodied in their own distinguished careers.