MTA’s “Names, Not Numbers©” program welcomed award-winning investigative reporter Jonah Kaplan on Thursday, October 18. Originally from Philadelphia, Kaplan joined ABC11 Eyewitness News in 2016 as the political and investigative reporter. A two-time Emmy nominee, he is an integral part of the ABC11 I-Team alongside troubleshooter Diane Wilson. Seniors participating in the “Names, Not Numbers©” elective course were privileged to learn about interview techniques during this informative session. Kaplan discussed important interviewing techniques and demonstrated the application of these techniques using footage from some of his notable interviews. In an interview with late night star Jimmy Fallon, Kaplan showed the importance of asking specific questions so that the interviewee can expand on their answers. He also emphasized the importance of establishing a connection with the interviewee so the conversation flows smoothly. Students look forward to using Kaplan’s invaluable advice, coupled with guidance from program advisor Rabbi Shalom Richter and “Names, Not Numbers©” founder Tova Rosenberg, as they begin the life-changing experience of developing their Holocaust oral history film documentaries.

By Jordan Levovitz (‘19)

�