Following the November 13, 2022, fatal shooting of three University of Virginia football players aboard of bus returning from a field trip, we focused resources to help readers better understand the incomprehensible. The result was our spring 2023 issue: "Tragedy Strikes UVA." We set out to answer a series of basic questions. The facts: What happened that evening? (“The Night Of,” p. 36.) The context: What sequence of events came before and after? (“Before, During, and Aftermath,” p. 46.) The fear: What was it like to be in lockdown during the manhunt? (“12 Hours in the Dark,” p. 48.) The fallen: Who were these young men so senselessly slain? (“The Joy, Love, the Light,” p. 54.) And then visually, we wanted to convey the magnitude of the collective horror, grief, and sense of community.
From the Judges
This piece shows bravery in tackling a difficult topic. The university deserves kudos for allowing the exploration of this heartbreaking story. The result is a moving, important, and beautifully conceived issue that tackles a surprising and courageous topic. The journalistic achievement is impressive. The double-gatefold introduction is a brilliant touch.
