Amy Padnani
About Amy Padnani
Amy Padnani is an editor of obituaries at The New York Times, where she has worked since 2011. She is known for creating the 'Overlooked' series, which highlights the stories of women and people of color historically omitted from obituaries.
Work at The New York Times
Amy Padnani has served as the Editor of Obituaries at The New York Times since 2011. In this role, she has focused on diversifying the obituary section by including stories of women and people of color. Padnani created the 'Overlooked' series, which highlights individuals whose contributions were historically overlooked in obituary reporting. This initiative has gained recognition and is being adapted into a television show and several books. Her work has contributed to a broader understanding of the narratives that shape history and the importance of inclusivity in media.
Education and Expertise
Padnani studied at the Bronx High School of Science and later attended New York University. Her educational background has equipped her with the skills necessary for a career in journalism and editing. She has a strong foundation in visual storytelling and has worked across various desks, including business and national news, prior to her current position. Her expertise in audience engagement and breaking news has also played a significant role in her editorial work.
Background
Before joining The New York Times, Amy Padnani gained experience through various reporting roles. She worked as a reporter at Staten Island Advance from 2008 to 2011, at The Journal News from 2007 to 2008, and at The Star-Ledger from 2006 to 2007. Additionally, she completed internships at The Journal News and Herald News in 2004 and 2005. This diverse background in journalism has informed her approach to obituary editing and storytelling.
Achievements
Padnani has been recognized for her efforts to bring diversity to the obituary section of The New York Times. She has been actively involved in initiatives aimed at including more stories of women and minorities, addressing gender imbalance in obituary reporting. Her work on the 'Overlooked' series has not only changed the narrative around obituaries but has also emphasized the importance of recognizing diverse voices in historical accounts. She has delivered a TED Talk focusing on diversity and history, further highlighting her commitment to these issues.