Harry Stevens, The Washington Post's climate graphics columnist, has been honored with the 2024 Excellence in Statistical Reporting Award by the American Statistical Association. This prestigious recognition highlights Stevens' exceptional work in utilizing and elucidating statistics through journalism.
The award acknowledges Stevens' contributions to the Climate Lab vertical, which he has been leading since November 2022. This bi-weekly feature presents climate science and data through highly personalized and accessible graphics, making complex environmental issues more comprehensible to readers.
Some of Stevens' notable works include:
- A captivating visualization of declining bird populations
- A comprehensive map illustrating Americans' access to nature
- An emotive narrative about Bishop, a whale whose migration exemplifies the extreme dangers facing his species
These stories have resonated strongly with The Post's audience, demonstrating the power of visual storytelling in conveying critical environmental information. The American Statistical Association, founded in 1839, recognized Stevens' ability to present statistical data in a "clear, personalizable, transparent, and reproducible way."
In addition to his climate-focused work, the award also acknowledges Stevens' contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, he authored one of The Washington Post's most-viewed articles in its history. This innovative visualization effectively illustrated the concept of "flattening the curve" by demonstrating how disease outbreaks spread exponentially and how social distancing measures could mitigate this spread.
"Please congratulate Harry for this recognition."
Stevens' work exemplifies the growing importance of data visualization and statistical literacy in modern journalism. As climate change continues to be a pressing global issue, the ability to present complex scientific concepts in an accessible manner becomes increasingly crucial. The Washington Post, established in 1877, has a long history of award-winning journalism, and Stevens' recognition further cements its commitment to innovative and impactful reporting.
This award not only celebrates Stevens' individual achievements but also underscores the significance of environmental reporting and the power of visual storytelling in engaging readers with critical issues. As climate science relies heavily on statistical analysis and modeling, journalists like Stevens play a vital role in bridging the gap between complex data and public understanding.