Ina Jaffe, a distinguished NPR correspondent, passed away on August 1, 2024, after a courageous battle with metastatic breast cancer. She was 75 years old. Jaffe's departure marks a significant loss to the journalism community, recognizing her for her insightful storytelling and passionate reporting that resonated with audiences across the nation.
Born in 1949 in Chicago, Illinois, Jaffe developed an early love for learning. She attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy, later completing her Master’s Degree at DePaul University. Jaffe's academic prowess was evident in her professional work, as she often approached complex stories with depth and meticulousness, characteristics that would define her reporting style throughout her career.
Jaffe began her tenure at NPR in January 1988, embarking on a remarkable 36-year journey that established her as a key figure in the field of journalism. Throughout her career, she reported on a wide range of topics including political affairs, art, and significant criminal trials. Notably, in 2015, she was recognized as one of the nation’s top "Influencers in Aging" by PBS’s Next Avenue, highlighting her ability to bring attention to important societal issues.
Colleagues who worked closely with Jaffe often recall her straightforward and compassionate approach. NPR’s Senior Vice President and Editor-in-Chief, Edith Chapin, noted in a heartfelt message to staff about Jaffe’s work focusing on veterans’ housing. Jaffe uncovered that businesses were leasing space meant for homeless veterans at the Veterans Administration’s West Los Angeles Medical Center campus. Thanks to her efforts, vital housing was secured for those veterans who desperately needed it.
Jaffe’s transition from acting to journalism is a testament to her versatility. Before joining NPR, she was involved in the theater as part of the Organic Theater group, where she gained experience that translated seamlessly into her reporting. Her former colleague, Jacki Lyden, emphasized that Jaffe’s ability to craft engaging narratives was a skill honed in the theater world. "Ina was an actor, and NPR was the stage," she remarked, affirming that Jaffe brought a unique sense of drama and humanity to her reporting.
Her empathetic storytelling extended to unflinching coverage of important issues like the challenges faced by America's aging population, mental health hospitals in California, and the ramifications of COVID-19 in nursing homes. Jaffe used her voice not just to report but to connect, making her audience feel the realness of the stories she told.
Despite her public persona, Jaffe valued her privacy and was married to Lenny Kleinfeld, a writer known for his crime novels. Their partnership, established during their college years, was marked by mutual respect and love—a stay-at-home relationship that allowed them to balance personal and professional commitments.
After announcing her battle with cancer in 2021, Jaffe continued to work while documenting her experience with the disease. She shared her story candidly, using her platform to raise awareness about breast cancer research and funding. "Those who knew and worked with Ina will remember her as a reporter’s reporter, who demanded accuracy and respected the truth," reflected her friend and colleague Renee Montagne. Jaffe’s commitment to uncovering the truth and advocating for the vulnerable left an indelible mark on her colleagues and the journalists of the future.
Throughout her career, Jaffe received numerous accolades for her impactful work. She tackled issues often overlooked or sidelined, which had significant implications for public policy and social awareness. Most notably, her investigative reports on veterans’ housing prompted critical changes to enhance the support and services needed for veterans, highlighting her as a catalyst for positive change.
Jaffe’s impact extended beyond specific stories. Colleagues describe her as a mentor who inspired many budding journalists to pursue truth and integrity in their work. As a woman in journalism, she broke boundaries and paved the way for future generations of female journalists, creating a legacy that will surely endure.
She is survived by her husband, who supported her throughout her life and career. In reflecting upon Jaffe’s remarkable journey, one can only marvel at not just the history she chronicled but also the depth of character she brought to her work.
Ina’s reporting and the stories she shared not only informed listeners but also pushed for accountability and change. While her voice may no longer be heard on NPR, the impact she made through her journalism will continue to echo. Her legacy is one of dedication, excellence, and a relentless pursuit of truth, marking her as a beloved figure in the world of public media.