- 2022
Jennifer Thuncher is an outstanding leader, mentor, beacon of journalistic effort and integrity, and community advocate.
Over the years, journalism interns and graduates, many from Langara, have been sent to Jennifer as their introduction to the real world of journalism. Jennifer does much more than simply get a little practice in. She continues their education, teaching them how to be ethical and compassionate, tough and fair. It is apparent that the most idealistic of these students, the ones interested in social justice and making the world a better place, love their time with her. She sees journalism as a real mission and also one that is always informed by her community.
Like Shelley Fralic always did, she doesn’t let herself think that being a journalist puts her above regular citizens. She sees herself as one of them, but able to put their concerns in the spotlight through rigorous and sensitive reporting.
She reflects all the conflicting emotions and reactions of her community, warm and empathetic when tragedy erupts, funny and light-filled when her town’s quirkiness is on display.
So often, awards like this go to people who are well-known by a big audience. Journalists like Jennifer, who are the biographers and advocates for their community, only get appreciation locally.
Giving this award to Jennifer Thuncher is a real tribute to what Shelley was always aiming to do in the profession she loved so very much, as does this first recipient of the Fralic Award