Sam Freedman is a deeply beloved professor at Columbia University Journalism School. For the past 34 years, he has taught a popular book development seminar, helping students to develop their narrative nonfiction ideas into book proposals. The result? 112 of his students have gotten contracts. This spring marks Freedman’s last semester at Columbia, and we wanted to highlight what has made him so successful—as an award-winning author and journalist, but particularly as an educator, who has empowered more than three decades of aspiring authors. To write the story, we spent time with Freedman, taking the time to learn about his unique methodology (each weekly seminar lasts more than seven hours!), his values, and what motivates him. And we also talked to of his former students—many of them bestselling authors—as we highlighted an extraordinary community united by their devotion to Freedman, and the high standards to which he has held them.
From the Judges
Inspiring, heartfelt, impactful. This piece stands out for its powerful tribute to a retiring professor whose tough-love teaching style made an impact on his students and helped them launch their careers as published authors. The storytelling beautifully blends alumni success stories, personal reflections, and classroom insight, showcasing the long-lasting ripple effect of great teaching. It’s a compelling story model which highlights faculty impact that could be adapted at any institution to celebrate educators and demonstrate the positive outcomes of academic programs.
