Georgia Watch welcomes a new addition to its watchdog team. Jonathan Shapiro joins the organization as communications director, bringing with him valuable experience as a radio, web, and newspaper reporter.

Shapiro most recently worked as Morning Edition producer for WABE, Atlanta’s NPR station. He reported on a range of topics, including transportation, homelessness, immigration, and the state Supreme Court. He will be responsible for all media contact, as well as internal and external communications in print and on the web.

“Jonathan’s genuine concern about consumer issues makes him a perfect fit for our organization,” Georgia Watch executive director Angela Speir Phelps said. “We have important issues ahead of us on energy, healthcare, and mortgage reform that will impact all Georgians. He will no doubt play a critical role in helping us.”

Shapiro began his journalism career in Portland, Oregon, helping produce a public affairs program for Oregon Public Broadcasting and writing pieces for The Portland Mercury. Later he worked for a daily newspaper in north New Jersey, covering city politics, education, and crime.

“Georgia Watch had always been on my radar as a reporter,” Shapiro said. “It’s an organization that cares deeply about protecting the interests of Georgians. They focus on every day issues that impact people in a serious way. I’m excited to be part of the team.”

Before becoming a journalist, Jonathan taught social studies in New York City and worked at the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. A native Floridian, Shapiro graduated from Emory University with a B.A. in political science.