Hi, I’m Stephana!

I’m a journalist born and raised in the Chicago area, deeply influenced by my background as the daughter of Romanian immigrants. I earned my bachelor’s degree in print and digital journalism from the University of Missouri and my master’s in journalism, with a specialization in investigative reporting, from Northwestern University.

I’m deeply motivated by uncovering systemic injustices affecting marginalized communities and doing accountability reporting. This has drawn me to focus on issues like criminal justice, gender-based violence, housing, labor and immigration.

My work has been published with MuckRock Foundation, the Cicero Independiente, the Columbia Missourian and KOMU News.

When I’m not reporting, I’m spending time with my dog, Scooby, traveling or hosting my book club.