Ann Rejrat

Managed to turn a lifelong habit of annoying people around me by constantly asking, "Is that true?" and "Where'd you hear that?" into a useful skill for a career in journalism.

I'm a Pennsylvania-based journalist with over 4 years of experience covering topics including public safety, environmental issues, local politics, criminal justice, and community affairs. My work has led to changes on both the federal and state levels.

As a reporter, I work closely with sources and have a proven record of handling sensitive topics while earning a source’s trust. Working my way through college and holding jobs across many fields taught me how to navigate difficult situations and connect with people from different backgrounds.

Whenever possible, I back up my stories with extensive reporting, including records requests, corroborating interviews, and tracking down paper trails like texts, emails, and photos.

Currently, I am a freelance journalist recently publishing stories through Spotlight PA and Pennsylvania Capital-Star. My work has included a three-part investigation into allegations of harassment and assault at a haunted house that has led to state policy changes. I have localized national news by interviewing Ukrainian and Russian residents in Pennsylvania about the war. I have also covered local issues, such as a resident in a small township fighting in court to access drafts of a local ordinance.

At LNP | LancasterOnline, I was a reporter on the watchdog team, filling in across multiple beats including local politics, breaking news, and police and courts reporting. During my time at a daily newspaper, I proved my ability to balance short-turnaround stories with mid- and long-term investigations.

Walter Cronkite