Scholar Profile

Francis Poon

Media

Biography

Francis Poon is a journalist and producer for the CNN documentary series “This Is Life with Lisa Ling.” For the show, which is currently in production on its ninth season, Francis has investigated some of our country’s most pressing issues, including America’s mental health crisis, history of anti-Asian violence and the pervasiveness of sexual assault in the military. He has explored rave culture, the immigrant experience, gender fluidity, and covered stories about some of the most misunderstood members of our community.

Prior to his work on This Is Life, Francis worked on several other documentaries, including “Belief,” a 7-hour journey with Oprah Winfrey into the human need to connect with something greater than ourselves.

Aside from his work in documentaries, Francis is involved with the Milken community through the Milken Book Club and is a committee member of the Milken Alumni Fund. Francis is a graduate of NYU’s Gallatin School of Individualized Studies with a degree concentration in visual culture and education.

High school:  Glen Wilson High School

Degrees

News and Highlights

10/29/2019 Francis Poon (MS '09)

In the spotlight: Francis Poon MS’ 09, celebrated a 6^th season premiere of his series This is Life with Lisa Ling, in September 2019. The CNN original documentary television series produced by Part2 Pictures explores different American communities & social issues in America today.  You can watch these Sunday nights at 10pm and if you’ve missed any of the 43 episodes, you can download them on Amazon or iTunes.  As a true Milken Scholar family member, Francis invited Diana Hong MS ’99 to provide support on translation needed for one of his most recent episodes.  Make sure to watch! 

Francis Poon (MS '09)

Very photogenic. Francis Poon, MS ’09, is currently a Photo Intern at Esquire Magazine’s New York City offices, in addition to all of his work for NYU’s Washington Square News.