Former Globe investigative reporter profiled in Emporia newspaper

Former Joplin Globe investigative reporter Max McCoy has joined the education ranks. McCoy, whose most recent stint with the Globe was probably highlighted by his revelations concerning Sen. Gary Nodler and an incident in a movie theater, is teaching at Emporia State University, and is profiled in the Emporia Gazette:

McCoy, who is from Baxter Springs, is a journalist in residence at Emporia State University. This semester he is teaching freelance writing and next semester he will teach a class on investigative reporting.

McCoy offers these thoughts:

"I like the opportunity to work with students who are interested in a career in journalism or professional writing," McCoy said. "It's been illuminating for me in my writing class to work with people who haven’t done interviewing before.

"It’s a good reminder that these skills aren't natural."

McCoy said it's his responsibility to foster those interview skills.

"I try to foster a sense that as a journalist they have the legitimate right to ask questions," he said. "...It's actually one of the basic responsibilities of our democracy."