Ad
Journal crime and justice reporter promoted to oversee news desk
Matthew Reisen
Published
Modified
After a nationwide search, Matthew Reisen, a veteran award-winning Albuquerque Journal reporter, has been promoted as the newspaper’s news editor, overseeing a staff of more than 10 reporters, editors and freelancers.
The appointment was announced by Journal Executive Editor Jay Newton-Small in an email to staff.
“City editor is such a key position,” Newton-Small said, “I interviewed more than half a dozen prospects from outside the Journal, but ultimately we needed someone who knew the newsroom, and the city, well.
“Matt was a favorite amongst the staff for the position, but it wasn’t the easiest convincing him to leave behind reporting and writing. I’m glad he’s giving it a shot! He’s already made a huge difference.”
Reisen, 37, started his professional career in April 2017 as a police reporter for the Journal. He has since written about virtually every aspect of law enforcement and criminal justice in New Mexico, picking up numerous journalism awards along the way.
In October, Reisen and Journal investigative reporter Colleen Heild took first place in the New Mexico Press Association contest for ongoing/continuing coverage of a federal investigation into Albuquerque police DWI officers.
In the same contest, Reisen was recognized with a first place in feature writing for his story about a University of New Mexico trauma surgeon’s experience treating victims of gun violence.
Reisen’s byline has appeared for years above virtually every major crime story published by the Journal. His stories often include the voices of those most directly affected by crime.
A La Cueva High School graduate, Reisen earned a bachelor’s degree in English and journalism in 2017 from the University of New Mexico, where he served as news editor for the Daily Lobo.
