About

I am an award-winning former Washington Post staff writer with 25+ years of journalism experience telling stories and explaining complex subjects to diverse global audiences in ways that capture attention and have impact. 

As a journalist, I have developed a wealth of expertise in transportation, urban planning, real estate development, education, crime, courts, politics and government. I can get up to speed quickly on almost any subject to ask the right questions, find the most interesting story angles, and frame issues in a national context. 

I have tracked down and interviewed thousands of academics, industry experts, public officials and everyday people, from ticked off commuters to reluctant crime victims. I thrive under pressure, write and edit quickly, and rigorously fact-check to ensure accuracy. 

My specialty: Using deep reporting and clear, vivid language to simplify the complex, humanize the technical, and find the interesting in the seemingly mundane. In addition to freelance journalism, I help organizations tell their stories through op eds, press releases, speeches, hearing testimony, reports, newsletters and other written content. 

My favorite compliment from a Washington Post editor: ''Katie has unique ideas that allow us to tell stories not reported elsewhere...When Katie is in charge of a story, I'm at ease because I know high-quality work will be the result.'' 

Website & portfolio: www.shavercommunications.com 

Please reach out at katherine@shavercommunications.com.