Reporter / California Local News Fellow
Before I became a journalist, I researched aquatic ecology in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Now, I’m bringing that same curiosity and data-driven ethos to report on Santa Cruz County’s most complex issues, including climate change, housing insecurity and public health. As a reporter with Santa Cruz Local, I write stories that explain local issues, explore possible solutions and empower community members to get involved.
I’m part of the inaugural cohort of the California Local News Fellowship at the UC Berkeley School of Journalism. I graduated from UC Santa Cruz with a master’s degree in science communication in 2020. My work has been published in Mercury News, Hakai, Audubon Magazine and other outlets.
I live in Santa Cruz with my partner, dog and cat.
Have a question you’d like me to answer? Reach me at [email protected].
Recent stories by Jesse Kathan
Watsonville leaders to discuss Flock contract
Meeting Tuesday evening, how to submit public comment
Capitola council candidate concerned over indoctrination of children by pro-LGBTQ+ educators, governments
Candidate TJ Welch reaffirms support for the LGBTQ+ community despite scrutiny
With less stability, less community, homeless displaced from Coral Street struggle to make it
Santa Cruz continues to conduct homeless sweeps, with limited housing options
Two competing visions for Bay and Escalona intersection in Santa Cruz
Decision at Tuesday council meeting
As big buildings come to Santa Cruz, leaders want suggestions to make them less ugly
Survey open through August
With new funds, Felton Fire looks to hire
Citizen oversight, budget to be discussed next month
Up to 281 apartments proposed on Seabright Avenue in Santa Cruz
Plus other major housing and development projects
Santa Cruz transportation leaders weigh loans for highway, rail trail projects
Santa Cruz transportation leaders weigh loans for highway, rail trail projects
How Big Soda nearly killed Measure Z in Santa Cruz
Part 2: How voters fought back against pressure by the beverage industry
A decade ago, a soda tax effort fizzled in Watsonville. Advocates blame Big Beverage.
Part 1: Industry leans on elected leaders of color to defend against regulation, experts say
Over 100 seats across Santa Cruz County are up for election. Here’s why they matter.
Candidate info sessions Monday and Tuesday
How is your police department using Flock data?
A guide for California reporters and researchers
Paid parking, road repairs and scanter reserves: Inside the draft Santa Cruz County budget
Weigh in on draft budget in meetings Wednesday and Thursday
Eight-story Front Street proposal goes to Planning Commission Thursday
Site now occupied by Ace Hardware