SPJ News

SPJ condemns arrest of Fox 7 News photojournalists, calls for law enforcement to allow journalists to report without interference

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

CONTACT
Ashanti Blaize-Hopkins, SPJ National President, ashanti.blaize@gmail.com
Kim Tsuyuki, SPJ Communications Specialist, ktsuyuki@hq.spj.org

INDIANAPOLIS — As more protests take place at college campuses across the country, the Society of Professional Journalists reminds law enforcement that journalists should be allowed to cover the story without interference and condemns the arrest of a Fox 7 News photojournalist at Wednesday’s University of Texas protest. SPJ demands that the Texas Department of Public Safety drop all charges against the photographer immediately.

“It is absolutely abhorrent that journalists are being arrested and harmed while doing their jobs,” said SPJ National President Ashanti Blaize-Hopkins. “This is a clear violation of the First Amendment. SPJ stands with all journalists in their efforts to seek truth and report it, a commanding principle in the SPJ Code of Ethics.”

For journalists covering the protests, SPJ offers several resources such as the SPJ Toolbox, the SPJ Code of Ethics, the SPJ Ethics Hotline and the SPJ MMJ Safety Guidelines. Journalists on the scene should team up with other journalists, look out for each other, have an escape route, and if you begin to feel unsafe, leave. No story is worth being injured or worse, so please do not take unnecessary risks as you are covering these volatile stories.

SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to informing citizens; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and fights to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member, give to the Legal Defense Fund or give to the SPJ Foundation.

-END-

Region 3 Mark of Excellence Awards 2023 winners announced

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

CONTACT:
Lou Harry, SPJ Manager of Publications and Awards, lharry@spj.org
Kimberly Tsuyuki, SPJ Communications Specialist, ktsuyuki@hq.spj.org

INDIANAPOLIS — The Society of Professional Journalists recognizes the best collegiate journalism in Region 3 with 2023 Mark of Excellence Awards winners.

SPJ’s Region 3 comprises Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands. First-place winners will compete at the national level among other MOE winners from the 12 SPJ regions.

National winners will be notified in the late spring.

MOE Awards entries are judged by professionals with at least three years of journalism experience. Judges were directed to choose entries they felt were among the best in student journalism. If no entry rose to the level of excellence, no award was given. Any category not listed has no winner.

School divisions are based on student enrollment, including both graduate and undergraduate: Large schools have at least 10,000 students and small schools have 9,999 or fewer students.

The list below details all Region 3 winners. If you have any questions regarding the MOE Awards, contact SPJ Manager of Publications and Awards Lou Harry by email.

This list reflects the spelling and titles submitted in the award entries.

Print/Online

Breaking News Reporting (Large)
Winner: Pilot of small plane who died in crash pleaded for help in final moments: ‘I’m losing altitude’ — by Gabriel Velasquez Neira, WUFT, University of Florida
Finalist: Idalia survivor of storm’s fury near landfall: ‘Don’t ever want to go through that again’ — by Jack Lemnus, Fresh Take Florida/WUFT, University of Florida

Breaking News Reporting (Small)
Winner: University president denounces 'antisemitic' rhetoric at campus protest — by Sarah Davis, Jack Rutherford, Matthew Chupack, The Emory Wheel, Emory University

General News Reporting (Large)
Winner: Will new regulations mean fewer Airbnbs in Columbia? — by Camdyn Bruce, The Carolina News & Reporter, University of South Carolina
Finalist: UF to spend $300,000 on new pool for incoming university president — by Emma Behrman, Fresh Take Florida/WUFT, University of Florida
Finalist: Linnentown lives on: Demolished neighborhood’s fight for redress and recognition — by Jesse Wood, The Red & Black, The University of Georgia

General News Reporting (Small)
Winner: Eckerd tightens budget as costs rise — by Grey Curcio, Triton Publications, Eckerd College
Finalist: Biden calls for stronger voting rights in Selma — by Emily Mosier, The Tropolitan, Troy University
Finalist: Transgender Eckerd students ‘carded’ in bathroom at New College; Eckerd community protests … — by Grey Curcio, Triton Publications, Eckerd College

In-Depth Reporting (Large)
Winner: Teacher vacancies and school leadership can go hand-in-hand — by Madelyn Weston, The Carolina News & Reporter, University of South Carolina
Finalist: Learning to think outside the box — by Allison Mawn, Personal website; The Red & Black, University of Georgia
Finalist: Remembering Devin: Loved ones keep the memory of No. 77 alive — by Dawn Sawyer, The Red & Black, The University of Georgia

In-Depth Reporting (Small)
Winner: Athletes struggle with pressures and mental health — by Sydney Preston, Flagler College Gargoyle, Flagler College
Finalist: Eckerd College students want more safe spaces to discuss Israel-Hamas War — by Hanna Kobs, Triton Publications, Eckerd College, Eckerd College

Feature Writing (Large)
Winner: White man to be sentenced for recent, racially motivated attack at site of massacre of Black resident — by Jack Lemnus, Fresh Take Florida/WUFT, University of Florida
Finalist: Retired cop never forgot unsolved case, helped convict rapist decades later — by Alexa Herrera, Fresh Take Florida/WUFT, University of Florida
Finalist: Patience and perseverance: The story behind Athens’ rainbow crosswalk — by Maddie Brechtel, The Red & Black, The University of Georgia

Feature Writing (Small)
Winner: Fashion Your Seatbelts: Decades of fashion and its significance at Eckerd College — by Nicole Vogler, Triton Publications, Eckerd College
Finalist: No regrets: Elizabeth Montavon pro water skier learns to live with an autoimmune disease — by Gabby Alfveby, Flagler College Gargoyle, Flagler College
Finalist: Food insecurity — by Chloe Smith, Flagler College Gargoyle, Flagler College

Sports Writing (Large)
Winner: New group emerges to pay UF athletes; Gator Collective dissolves after mishandled QB deal — by Aidan Bush, Fresh Take Florida/WUFT, University of Florida
Finalist: A silent journey: Gamecocks volleyball star excels despite being born deaf — by Dylan Jackson, The Carolina News & Reporter, University of South Carolina
Finalist: Doris Lemngole's 'improbable' journey — by Theodore Fernandez, The Crimson White, University of Alabama

Sports Writing (Small)
Winner: Black student-athlete group to ‘bridge the gap,’ empower Emory athletes — by Claire Fenton, The Emory Wheel, Emory University
Finalist: Micro tussle, big hustle: Changing perspectives on micro wrestling — by Carter Weinhofer, Ian Shepperd, Triton Publications, Eckerd College
Finalist: Team setting helps BRAVE Project run deep for athletes — by Mary Harrison, Campus Carrier, Berry College

Editorial/Opinion Writing
Winner: The Independent Florida Alligator — by Editorial Board, The Independent Florida Alligator, University of Florida
Finalist: Electoral Ellie — by Ellie Fivas, Sophia Peyser, The Emory Wheel, Emory University

General Column Writing
Winner: Columns — by Chance Phillips, The Crimson White, University of Alabama

Sports Column Writing
Winner: Title IX 50th anniversary reflections from a female collegiate athlete — by Pilar Rossi, The Emory Wheel, Emory University

Corbin Gwaltney Award for Best All-Around Student Newspaper (Large)
Winner: The Red & Black — by Staff, The Red & Black, The University of Georgia
Finalist: The Current — by Staff, The Current / Mako Media Network, Nova Southeastern University
Finalist: The Independent Florida Alligator — by Staff, The Independent Florida Alligator, University of Florida

Corbin Gwaltney Award for Best All-Around Student Newspaper (Small)
Winner: The Emory Wheel — by The Emory Wheel staff, The Emory Wheel, Emory University

Best Ongoing Student Magazine
Winner: Distraction Magazine — by Staff, Distraction Magazine, University of Miami
Finalist: SCAN Magazine — by Staff, SCAD Connector/SCAN Magazine, Savannah College of Art and Design- Atlanta
Finalist: Muse — by Staff, Alice Magazine, University of Alabama

Best Affiliated Web Site
Winner: SCAD Connector — by Staff, SCAD Connector, Savannah College of Art and Design-Atlanta
Finalist: Mako News — by Staff, Mako News/Mako Media Network, Nova Southeastern University

Best Independent Online Student Publication
Winner: Viking Fusion — by Staff, Viking Fusion, Berry College
Finalist: Flagler College Gargoyle — by Staff, Flagler College Gargoyle, Flagler College

Art/Graphics/Multimedia

Breaking News Photography
Winner: Israel rally — by Augustus Hoff, WUFT News, University of Florida

General News Photography
Winner: Gun laws — by Augustus Hoff, WUFT News, University of Florida
Finalist: Childcare closure — by Azhalia Pottinger, WUFT News, University of Florida
Finalist: Gaza rally — by Gabriel Velasquez-Neira, WUFT News, University of Florida

Feature Photography
Winner: Homecoming parade sights and sounds — by Valentina Sarmiento, WUFT News, University of Florida
Finalist: 2023 Gator fly-in — by Rae Riiska, WUFT News, University of Florida
Finalist: A wave of one — by Ethan Goddard, WUFT News, University of Florida

Photo Essay/Slideshow
Winner: Alumni: Then and now — by Alya Khoury, Hayley Powers, The Emory Wheel, Emory University
Finalist: Brilliantly beautiful: Learning to love yourself ‘flaws’ and all — by Hallie Cowan Barrera, Triton Publications, Eckerd College
Finalist: Slept on Eastside — by Trey Johnson, WUFT News, University of Florida

Illustration
Winner: Who can have the American dream? — by Annika Harley, Evian Le, Fon Limsomwong, SCAN Magazine, Savannah College of Art and Design-Atlanta
Finalist: Save our schools — by Rachel Farinas, Distraction Magazine, University of Miami

Photo Illustration
Winner: Retail in the Vista – a balance or imbalance? — by Sophia Laico, The Carolina News & Reporter, University of South Carolina

Sports Photography
Winner: 4th and 31 — by Riley Thompson, The Crimson White, University of Alabama
Finalist: A moment with the Sabans — by Natalie Teat, The Crimson White, University of Alabama
Finalist: Trevor Etienne — by Gabriel Velasquez-Neira, WUFT News, University of Florida

Best Use of Multimedia
Winner: Behind the bet: Stories of illegal sports betting on the University of Florida’s campus — by Alexis Ashby, WUFT, University of Florida

News Videography
Winner: Inside ICAC — by Chris Will, WUFT News, University of Florida

Feature Videography
Winner: Focus on the Everglades: Behind the scenes — by Finn Wilson, UMTV, University of Miami
Finalist: UF Turf team — by Chris Will, WUFT News, University of Florida
Finalist: Ace of Augusta: Wheeler's all-American two-year career at AU — by Rachel Carman, Augusta Business Daily, Augusta University

Audio

Radio Feature
Winner: UF IDF reservists deploy to Israel — by Ailee Shanes, WUFT News, University of Florida
Finalist: A symphony for Mom: Darkness to light — by Brendan Bryan, TROY Public Radio, Troy University

Radio In-Depth Reporting
Winner: Transgender Floridians weather the political storm around their rights — by Siena Duncan, WUFT News, University of Florida
Finalist: Helen of TROY: A look at equitable campus representation — by Emily Mosier, TROY Public Radio, Troy University

Best All-Around Radio Newscast
Winner: The Point Newscast — by Serra Sowers, WUFT News, University of Florida

Podcast (Narrative)
Winner: Georgia v. Foster — by Grace Snell, Viking Fusion, Berry College
Finalist: From athlete to ironman — by Kelsi Mauzy, Kelsi Mauzy, Furman University
Finalist: One More Time — by Meghan Bowman, USF Z News, University of South Florida

Podcast (Conversational)
Winner: Mad Melodies — by Marissa Lacey, Jaelanne Thomas, TROY Public Radio, Troy University
Finalist: The Sports Squad — by Carlos Rodriguez, The Bell Ringer/The Sports Squad, Augusta University
Finalist: Clifton Culture — by Staff, The Emory Wheel, Emory University

Broadcast

Television Breaking News Reporting
Winner: Apartment complex delays move in — by Kennedy Mason, WUFT News, University of Florida
Finalist: Hurricane Idalia preps — by Chris Will, WUFT News, University of Florida

Television General News Reporting
Winner: Purple for Mackinzie — by Ophelie Jacobson, WUFT News, University of Florida
Finalist: UF releases panic video, reveals threat — by Loren Miranda, WUFT News, University of Florida
Finalist: Ukrainians hold rally in South Florida — by Anna Coon, UMTV, University of Miami

Television Feature Reporting
Winner: The 12th man — by Emmanuel Naccarato, UMTV, University of Miami
Finalist: History of the Florida Everglades — by Derryl Barnes, Embrik Eyles, UMTV, University of Miami

Television In-Depth Reporting
Winner: How oil drilling has affected the Florida Everglades — by Embrik Eyles, Finn Wilson, UMTV, University of Miami
Finalist: Inside ICAC — by Chris Will, WUFT News, University of Florida
Finalist: Life beyond height: Little people’s struggle to access public buildings — by Laura Palfrey, Jasmine Arocha, Sheetal Bahadursingh, Caplin News, Florida International University

Television Sports Reporting
Winner: UF turf team — by Chris Will, University of Florida
Finalist: Using protective vests in equestrian sport — by Morgan Champey, University of Miami
Finalist: Harper's Race — by Ryan Marshall, University of Miami

Best All-Around Television Newscast
Winner: NewsVision — by Maddie Bassalik, Katelyn Kucharski, Finn Wilson, Darrel Creary, UMTV, University of Miami
Finalist: First at Five — by Staff, WUFT News, University of Florida

Best All-Around Television News Magazine
Winner: Focus on the Florida Everglades — by Staff, UMTV, University of Miami

All Platform

Arts/Entertainment/Fashion Journalism
Winner: Fashion Section — by Staff, Distraction Magazine, University of Miami
Finalist: ‘Teach Me a Song:’ Indigenous music and art installation at Crisp Ellert — by Sara Orr, Flagler College Gargoyle, Flagler College

Campus Reporting
Winner: Laney graduate students vote to unionize — by Madi Olivier, Ilah Ross, The Emory Wheel, Emory University
Finalist: How women protect themselves on campus and other columns — by Lindsay Capps, Knightly News, Furman University
Finalist: Here’s a full timeline of the chaos at the Turlington Plaza vigil for Israel — by Serra Sowers, WUFT, University of Florida

Cultural Criticism
Winner: Wahidi's What's Happening — by Safa Wahidi, The Emory Wheel, Emory University
Finalist: The Culture: Roundtable dialogue — by Melanie Lowe, Nia Williams, Laila Pettus, Beluchi Ibe, UMTV, University of Miami
Finalist: SCAD Manor — by Staff, SCAD Manor, Savannah College of Art and Design

Investigative Reporting
Winner: Underage drinking in a college town: How strictly should police, prosecutors enforce laws? — by Troy Myers, Fresh Take Florida/WUFT, University of Florida
Finalist: Redondo condo? GOP candidate wins state House race in South Florida amid questions over district res — by Silas Morgan, Fresh Take Florida/WUFT, University of Florida
Finalist: ‘Stop being racist:’ Tickets for loud music nearly 3 times more likely for Black drivers under new Florida law — by Meghan McGlone, Fresh Take Florida/WUFT, University of Florida

Regional Political Reporting
Winner: Former death row inmates slam new Florida law making it easier to impose capital punishment — by Carissa Allen, Fresh Take Florida/WUFT, University of Florida
Finalist: ‘Ain’t seen nothing yet’: DeSantis touts making Florida attractive destination, largely tempers fire — by Makiya Seminera, Fresh Take Florida/WUFT, University of Florida
Finalist: Then and now: How DeSantis’ State of State speeches have changed — by Makiya Seminera, Fresh Take Florida/WUFT, University of Florida

Retail/Small Business Journalism
Winner: Huizenga College promotes student entrepreneurs — by Ronald Martinez, Nicole Shaker, Daja Long, The Current/Mako Media Network, Nova Southeastern University

Science/Environment/Climate Reporting
Winner: Sustainability race — by Elijah Poritzky, Knightly News, Furman University
Finalist: Crews bust 'ghost traps' that kill lobsters, crabs in Biscayne Bay. They hauled out a ton — by Alan Halaly, The Miami Herald, University of Florida
Finalist: Hurricanes and Nor’easters taking their toll on St. Johns County coastline — by Megan Churchill, Flagler College Gargoyle, Flagler College

SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to informing citizens; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and fights to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member, give to the Legal Defense Fund or give to the SPJ Foundation.

-END-

Region 11 Mark of Excellence Awards 2023 winners announced

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

CONTACT:
Lou Harry, SPJ Manager of Publications and Awards, lharry@spj.org
Kimberly Tsuyuki, SPJ Communications Specialist, ktsuyuki@hq.spj.org

INDIANAPOLIS — The Society of Professional Journalists recognizes the best collegiate journalism in Region 11 with 2023 Mark of Excellence Awards winners.

SPJ’s Region 11 comprises Arizona, California, Guam, Hawaii, Nevada and Mariana Islands. First-place winners will compete at the national level among other MOE winners from the 12 SPJ regions.

National winners will be notified in the late spring.

MOE Awards entries are judged by professionals with at least three years of journalism experience. Judges were directed to choose entries they felt were among the best in student journalism. If no entry rose to the level of excellence, no award was given. Any category not listed has no winner.

School divisions are based on student enrollment, including both graduate and undergraduate: Large schools have at least 10,000 students and small schools have 9,999 or fewer students.

The list below details all Region 11 winners. If you have any questions regarding the MOE Awards, contact SPJ Manager of Publications and Awards Lou Harry by email.

This list reflects the spelling and titles submitted in the award entries.

Print/Online

Breaking News Reporting (Large)
Winner: Cal Poly Pomona provost abruptly 'fired' after 18-month term — by Matthew Acosta, Christie Counts, The Poly Post, California Polytechnic State University, Pomona
Finalist: Stanford president resigns over manipulated research, will retract at least three papers — by Theo Baker, The Stanford Daily, Stanford University
Finalist: Illegal marijuana dispensary next to El Camino raided by police — by Ethan Cohen, The Union, El Camino College

Breaking News Reporting (Small)
Winner: Bon Appétit workers push administrators to help in wage fight — by Anabel Martinez, Brandi Peters, Campus Times, University of La Verne
Finalist: ‘Tragedy impacts us all’: Pepperdine community mourns loss of four students — by Samantha Torre, The Graphic, Pepperdine University

General News Reporting (Large)
Winner: Tessier-Lavigne research investigation and reporting on retractions — by Theo Baker, The Stanford Daily, Stanford University
Finalist: El Camino out of compliance with state law to prevent opioid overdose deaths — by Kim McGill, The Union, El Camino College
Finalist: MMIP task forces are given years to solve a problem centuries in the making — by Alexis Waiss, Cronkite News, Arizona State University

General News Reporting (Small)
Winner: The cancel culture conversation: Controversy is just a click away — by Liza Esquibias, Currents, Pepperdine University
Finalist: Non-tenure track faculty declare unionization effort — by Amy Carlyle, Chris Benis, The Los Angeles Loyolan, Loyola Marymount University
Finalist: Faculty, staff to receive 2% raise amid 7.9% inflation — by Kelli Makenna Kuttruff, Campus Times, University of La Verne

In-Depth Reporting (Large)
Winner: Paying to be unpaid: The cost of unpaid internships — by Madeline Nguyen, State Press Magazine, Arizona State University
Finalist: Leaks, HVAC problems plague new buildings — by Emily Ingco, The Southwestern College Sun, Southwestern College
Finalist: Security Director — by Shiloh Johnston, Lylah Schmedel-Permanna, David Rowe, Li Khan, The Citizen, Laney College

In-Depth Reporting (Small)
Winner: Future of January interterm — by Samira Felix, Brittany Snow, Sarah Van Buskirk, Campus Times, University of La Verne
Finalist: ‘A Lack of Creativity’: An investigation into Pepperdine’s relationship with solar energy — by Ali Levens, The Graphic, Pepperdine University

Feature Writing (Large)
Winner: Marching to the beat: SDSU’s Marching Aztecs redefine college band tradition — by Ryan Kehl, The Daily Aztec, San Diego State University
Finalist: SRJC’s 30-second commute — by Michael Combs, The Oak Leaf News, Santa Rosa Junior College
Finalist: SRJC student survives jump off Golden Gate Bridge and is thankful at second chance — by Michael Combs, The Oak Leaf News, Santa Rosa Junior College

Feature Writing (Small)
Winner: Local houses go all out for Halloween — by Kelli Makenna Kuttruff, Campus Times, University of La Verne
Finalist: New President Mahdavi shares personal, presidential plans — by Samira Felix, Sarah Van Buskirk, Campus Times, University of La Verne
Finalist: The sweet archives of the Candy Wrapper Museum — by Taylor Moore, La Verne Magazine, University of La Verne

Sports Writing (Large)
Winner: 25 years later: Behind Bryce Drew's 1998 buzzer beater were the unknowns of March Madness — by Noah Furtado, Cronkite News, Arizona State University
Finalist: Pancake blocks to pancake stacks: Eating 'a chore' for offensive linemen — by Logan Stanley, Cronkite News, Arizona State University
Finalist: A gambler's paradise? For some, the industry's extreme growth leads to addiction and worse — by Sam Stern, Cronkite News, Arizona State University

Sports Writing (Small)
Winner: ‘You’re going to lose anyway’: Asian American athletes face stereotypes across sports — by Jerry Jiang, The Graphic, Pepperdine University
Finalist: Embracing adversity: Noah Taitz’s journey back to the court — by Khassim Diakhate, The Los Angeles Loyolan, Loyola Marymount University
Finalist: How are the heads in the game — by Madi Smith, The Santa Clara, Santa Clara University

Editorial/Opinion Writing
Winner: Opinion writing — by Aaron Stigile, The State Press, Arizona State University
Finalist: Editorials — by Editorial Board, Daily Bruin, University of California, Los Angeles
Finalist: Opinion writing — by Mia Osmonbekov, The State Press, Arizona State University

General Column Writing
Winner: Columns — by Sierra Benayon-Abraham, Daily Bruin, University of California, Los Angeles
Finalist: Columns — by Rudy Goldman, The Los Angeles Loyolan, Loyola Marymount University
Finalist: Columns — by Kim McGill, The Union, El Camino College

Sports Column Writing
Winner: Let's Talk About It — by Amani Rivers, The Los Angeles Loyolan, Loyola Marymount University
Finalist: Sam Settles it — by Sam Settleman, Daily Bruin, University of California, Los Angeles

Corbin Gwaltney Award for Best All-Around Student Newspaper (Large)
Winner: The Corsair — by Staff, The Corsair, Santa Monica College
Finalist: UCLA Daily Bruin — by Staff, Daily Bruin, University of California, Los Angeles
Finalist: Daily Forty-Niner — by Staff, Daily Forty-Niner, California State University, Long Beach

Corbin Gwaltney Award for Best All-Around Student Newspaper (Small)
Winner: The Graphic — by Staff, The Graphic, Pepperdine University

Best Ongoing Student Magazine
Winner: The Oak Leaf Magazine — by Staff, The Oak Leaf News, Santa Rosa Junior College
Finalist: Daily Sundial Magazine — by Staff, Daily Sundial Magazine, California State University, Northridge
Finalist: The Universal Language — by Staff, SCene Magazine, University of Southern California

Best Affiliated Web Site
Winner: UCLA Daily Bruin — by Staff, Daily Bruin, University of California, Los Angeles
Finalist: The Union — by Staff, The Union, El Camino College
Finalist: Pepperdine Graphic — by Staff, Pepperdine Graphic Media, Pepperdine University

Art/Graphics/Multimedia

Breaking News Photography
Winner: The Southwestern College Sun — by Ailyn Dumas, The Southwestern College Sun, Southwestern College
Finalist: District police respond to mental health crisis on campus — by Anne Belden, The Oak Leaf News, Santa Rosa Junior College
Finalist: SAG-AFTRA Arizona members rally as part of national strike for TV, film worker protections, wages — by Kiersten Edgett, Cronkite News, Arizona State University

General News Photography
Winner: A moment to grieve — by Emil Rizkalla, The Roundup, Los Angeles Pierce College
Finalist: Abortion pill ban protester — by Caylo Seals, The Corsair, Santa Monica College
Finalist: In plain sight: As students sleep, UCLA bakeries turn on the ovens — by Anna Dai-Liu, Daily Bruin, University of California, Los Angeles

Feature Photography
Winner: Opinion: ASU's football performance is disappointing fans — by Anthony Cavale, The State Press, Arizona State University
Finalist: Headbanging at the Glass House — by Amanda Torres, Campus Times, University of La Verne
Finalist: A night of music, art and community: Pacific Sounds returns — by Sammie Wuensche, The Graphic, Pepperdine University

Photo Essay/Slideshow
Winner: The streets of East L.A. — by Daniela Raymundo, The Bull Magazine, Los Angeles Pierce College
Finalist: Gone AWOL: Living in an RV dwelling in Los Angeles — by Caylo Seals, The Corsair, Santa Monica College
Finalist: Mexico’s women fight femicide — by Ailyn Dumas, The Southwestern College Sun, Southwestern College

Illustration
Winner: Here’s listening to you kid — by Edmundo Godinez, The Southwestern College Sun, Southwestern College
Finalist: Women's History Month — by Zasha Hayes, Daily Sundial, California State University, Northridge
Finalist: Black pioneers in music — by Zasha Hayes, Daily Sundial, California State University, Northridge

Photo Illustration
Winner: Report me, I’m gay — by Laney Norman, The Southwestern College Sun, Southwestern College
Finalist: California Bears at Stanford Stadium — by Kyle Garcia Takata, Anita Liu, Christian Yates, The Daily Californian, University of California, Berkeley
Finalist: Brittany Joyner is in her Edwardian era — by Abby Wilt, The Graphic, Pepperdine University

Sports Photography
Winner: Football vs. Claremont-Mudd-Scripps — by Nareg Agopian, Campus Times, University of La Verne
Finalist: The Sun Devils hit the road to face No. 5 ranked Huskies — by Calvin Stewart, The State Press, Arizona State University
Finalist: Soccer action — by Benjamin Hanson, The Roundup, Los Angeles Pierce College

Best Use of Multimedia
Winner: A symbol of freedom: How LMU secured a piece of the Berlin Wall — by Kylie Clifton, Jack Raese, Fernanda Vega, The Los Angeles Loyolan, Loyola Marymount University
Finalist: Ken Koshio marks three years of hiking Piestewa Peak every day — by Amber Victoria Singer, Cronkite News, Arizona State University
Finalist: Finding Grandma Joyce — by Samantha Chow, Cronkite News, Arizona State University

News Videography
Winner: A parking disaster at Point Dume: Tourists and residents struggle with on-and-off road closures — by Abby Wilt, The Graphic, Pepperdine University
Finalist: Women's March for Reproductive Rights — by Quinn Alexander, Daily Sundial, California State University, Northridge
Finalist: America after Roe: Helping mothers — by Trilce Estrada Olvera, Carnegie-Knight News21, Arizona State University

Feature Videography
Winner: Pulse: The Culture Fest Documentary — by Drake Presto, The State Press, Arizona State University
Finalist: Az Saber gives Star Wars fans 'A New Hope' — by Aahir Ghosh, The State Press, Arizona State University
Finalist: The love bench — by Nathan Kuczmarski, The Los Angeles Loyolan, Loyola Marymount University

Data Visualization
Winner: Working it out: Which gym has less traffic? — by Junwon Choi, Jessica Nguyen, Daily Bruin, University of California, Los Angeles

Audio

Radio News Reporting
Winner: Burning the forests — by Kiersten Edgett, Cronkite News, Arizona State University
Finalist: TrojansforPalestine Student Walkout — by Isa Johnson, Annenberg Media, Annenberg Radio News, University of Southern California
Finalist: Heat deaths — by Deanna Pistono, Cronkite News, Arizona State University

Radio Feature
Winner: Outrigger community — by Kiersten Edgett, Cronkite News, Arizona State University
Finalist: Celebrate Latine Heritage Month all year long on Olvera Street — by Erika Driscoll, Annenberg Media, Annenberg Radio News, University of Southern California
Finalist: Paying caregivers — by Deanna Pistono, Cronkite News, Arizona State University

Radio Sports Reporting
Winner: AZ horse racing in flux — by Austin Hepola, Cronkite News, Arizona State University

Podcast (Narrative)
Winner: Inside Objectivity — by Autriya Maneshni, Cronkite ASU, Arizona State University
Finalist: Blue Valentine — by Chloe Mendoza, Helena Getahun-Hawkins, The Stanford Daily, Stanford University

Podcast (Conversational)
Winner: Oak Leaf Gaming Podcast — by Jesus Lopez Cruz, Sam Guzman, Jonathan Cangson, Javi Rosas, The Oak Leaf News, Santa Rosa Junior College
Finalist: Voices of the Newsroom — by Coleman Standifer, Amy Carlyle, Kylie Clifton, The Los Angeles Loyolan, Loyola Marymount University
Finalist: The Graph — by Staff, The Graphic, Pepperdine University

Broadcast

Television Breaking News Reporting
Winner: Tustin hangar fire — by Alexandra Coenjaerts, Tess Martinelli, Sophy Acosta, Gavin Nguyen, Chapman News, Chapman University
Finalist: LAX Israeli arrivals — by Ava Domenichelli, Beach TV News, California State University, Long Beach
Finalist: Kaiser Permanente strike — by Michelle Roldan, Foothill Community News, University of La Verne

Television General News Reporting
Winner: Fentanyl crisis — by Raya Torres, Beach TV News, California State University Long Beach
Finalist: Little Arabia signage — by Luis Avila, Alyson Gonzalez, Chapman News, Chapman University
Finalist: Relocating rattlesnakes — by Tabitha Bland, Cronkite News, Arizona State University

Television Feature Reporting
Winner: Outrigger connections — by Tabitha Bland, Cronkite News, Arizona State University
Finalist: Boxing dean — by Maryssa Rillo, Annenberg Media, Annenberg TV News, University of Southern California
Finalist: The horse behind a famous USC mascot — by Cam Kauffman, Annenberg Media, Annenberg TV News, University of Southern California

Television In-Depth Reporting
Winner: Sweltering Saguaros — by Danny Stipanovich, Jason Marmon, Seungshin Seo, Cronkite News, Arizona State University
Finalist: Saddleback Church — by Claire Weber, Megan Sun, Kinsley Rolph, Chapman News, Chapman University
Finalist: El Paso migrants — by Miriam Ordonez, Cronkite News, Arizona State University

Television Sports Reporting
Winner: The Anthony Robles story — by Noelle Blumel, Cronkite News, Arizona State University
Finalist: Worries about wagers — by Jack Pierson, Cronkite News, Arizona State University
Finalist: Robinson going for gold — by Beatriz Martinez, Cronkite News, Arizona State University

Best All-Around Television Newscast
Winner: Beach TV News — by Staff, Beach TV News, California State University, Long Beach
Finalist: Chapman News — by Staff, Chapman News, Chapman University

Best All-Around Television News Magazine
Winner: Arizona Oasis — by Staff, Cronkite News, Arizona State University

All Platform

Arts/Entertainment/Fashion Journalism
Winner: The cultural reset of the cowboy boot and other fashion trends — by Gwen Soriano, The Poly Post, Cal Poly Pomona
Finalist: Frame by frame: ASU animators draw their imaginations into reality — by Fatima Gabir, State Press Magazine, Arizona State University
Finalist: Fashion and beauty series — by Erik Charlotte VonSosen, The Los Angeles Loyolan, Loyola Marymount University

Campus Reporting
Winner: Jacob Wheeler and Michael Melinger report on USC campus news — by Jacob Wheeler, Michael Melinger., Annenberg Media, Annenberg TV News, University of Southern California
Finalist: Pi Kappa Phi fraternity to return to UCLA following disbanding — by Dylan Winward, Daily Bruin, University of California, Los Angeles
Finalist: USG adjourns meeting early over physical and verbal disruptions from outside protest — by Phineas Hogan, Alysa Horton, The State Press, Arizona State University

Cultural Criticism
Winner: Lang Lang at Bing: A review by a pianist and a non-pianist — by Aya Aziz and Peyton Lee, The Stanford Daily, Stanford University
Finalist: Columns — by Natalie Agnew, Lex Wang, Graciana Paxton, Daily Bruin, University of California, Los Angeles
Finalist: Arts reviews — by Vivian Schafbuch, The Los Angeles Loyolan, Loyola Marymount University

Food/Restaurant Journalism
Winner: Food on campus series — by Athena Cheris, The Los Angeles Loyolan, Loyola Marymount University
Finalist: Yelp's best local eats — by Jolaya Gillams, Chapman News, Chapman University
Finalist: Their Japanese restaurant closed during the pandemic; now they’re back with a new Korean twist — by Raphael Richardson, Warrior Life, El Camino College

Investigative Reporting
Winner: Investigation into potential research misconduct under University president — by Theo Baker, The Stanford Daily, Stanford University
Finalist: The Citizen: Investigative reporting on district contracts and spending — by Staff, The Citizen, Laney College
Finalist: Pepperdine Ambassadors Council invetigation — by Samantha Torre, The Graphic, Pepperdine University

Regional Political Reporting
Winner: Santa Ana recall — by Luis Avila, Alyson Gonzalez, Chapman News, Chapman University
Finalist: UC community members call for systemic change, action against caste discrimination — by Shaanth Kodialam Nanguneri, Daily Bruin, University of California, Los Angeles

Retail/Small Business Journalism
Winner: Lucky Stars Market: A community built on diversity and a love for vintage fashion — by Serena Neumeyer, The Daily Aztec, San Diego State University
Finalist: Orange County Black-owned salon — by Imanni Wright, Collin Gaja, Chapman News, Chapman University
Finalist: Soul Land Lab — by Bella Leach, Chapman News, Chapman University

Science/Environment/Climate Reporting
Winner: Montana youth climate trial — by Kate Selig, The Washington Post, Stanford University
Finalist: Prayer run — by John Leos, Nellija Locmele, Tyler Bender, Megan Swing, Cronkite News, Arizona State University
Finalist: A wall runs through it — by Trilce Estrada Olvera, Makepeace Sitlhou, Hakob Karapetyan, Cronkite News, Arizona State University

SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to informing citizens; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and fights to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member, give to the Legal Defense Fund or give to the SPJ Foundation.

-END-

SPJ continues to call for the release of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and all imprisoned journalists

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

CONTACT
Ashanti Blaize-Hopkins, SPJ National President, ashanti.blaize@gmail.com
Kim Tsuyuki, SPJ Communications Specialist, ktsuyuki@hq.spj.org

INDIANAPOLIS — The Society of Professional Journalists continues to call for the release of Wall Street Journal correspondent Evan Gershkovich and strongly condemns the Moscow court that rejected Gershkovich’s appeal to end his pretrial detention. This comes just after a month marking his one-year imprisonment anniversary.

“Evan should be home with his family, and not stuck behind bars for simply doing his job," said SPJ National President Ashanti Blaize-Hopkins. “Several of Evan’s appeals have been denied and his pretrial detention has been extended numerous times. Enough is enough. Journalism is not a crime. The world needs journalists who hold the powerful to account and shed a light on the truth. Evan, and all other journalists currently in detainment, must be released.”

Russia is a leading jailer of journalists, with at least 22 behind bars as of late 2023, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists. CPJ issued a report at the end of 2023 that put the number of imprisoned journalists at a near record high.

In addition to Gershkovich, Austin Tice, a freelance journalist and photographer, is believed to still be imprisoned in Syria, where he was kidnapped Aug. 14, 2012.

“The world needs these independent voices,” Blaize-Hopkins continued. “Silencing journalists is dangerous for us all.”

SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to informing citizens; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and fights to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member, give to the Legal Defense Fund or give to the SPJ Foundation.

-END-

Region 7 Mark of Excellence Awards 2023 winners announced

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

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Region 1 Mark of Excellence Awards 2023 winners announced

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

CONTACT:
Lou Harry, SPJ Manager of Publications and Awards, lharry@spj.org
Kimberly Tsuyuki, SPJ Communications Specialist, ktsuyuki@hq.spj.org

INDIANAPOLIS — The Society of Professional Journalists recognizes the best collegiate journalism in Region 1 with 2023 Mark of Excellence Awards winners.

SPJ’s Region 1 comprises Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Central and Eastern Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont. First-place winners will compete at the national level among other MOE winners from the 12 SPJ regions.

National winners will be notified in the late spring.

MOE Awards entries are judged by professionals with at least three years of journalism experience. Judges were directed to choose entries they felt were among the best in student journalism. If no entry rose to the level of excellence, no award was given. Any category not listed has no winner.

School divisions are based on student enrollment, including both graduate and undergraduate: Large schools have at least 10,000 students and small schools have 9,999 or fewer students.

The list below details all Region 1 winners. If you have any questions regarding the MOE Awards, contact SPJ Manager of Publications and Awards Lou Harry by email.

This list reflects the spelling and titles submitted in the award entries.

Print/Online

Breaking News Reporting (Large)
Winner: Students react with anger, activism after Palestinian student shot in Vermont — by Staff, The Brown Daily Herald, Brown University
Finalist: Four Harvard Students held at gunpoint by campus police in ‘swatting’ attack — by J. Sellers Hill, Ryan H. Doan-Nguyen, Nia L. Orakwue, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard College
Finalist: Forty-one students arrested following second sit-in demanding divestment, ceasefire — by Anisha Kumar, Owen Dahlkamp, The Brown Daily Herald, Brown University

Breaking News Reporting (Small)
Winner: Rutgers week long strike marks historic win for union workers — by Julia Meriney, Ruby Voge, Jessica Romero Silver, The College VOICE, Mercer County Community College

General News Reporting (Large)
Winner: Tobacco regulations and Indigenous voices in New Zealand — by Simar Bajaj, NPR, Harvard University
Finalist: Barnard altered its policies after removing a ‘Solidarity with Palestine’ statement — by Shea Vance, Columbia Daily Spectator, Columbia University
Finalist: New wave of asylum seekers needs bilingual education — by Astra Montanez, Harlem View, The City College of New York

General News Reporting (Small)
Winner: ‘Not again’: False active shooter incident causes real trauma — by Mackenzie Allen, The Hawk Newspaper, St. Joseph's University
Finalist: Chemistry professor put on leave after student allegations of harassment — by Julia Meriney, Zlatin Ivanov, The College VOICE, Mercer County Community College

In-Depth Reporting (Large)
Winner: Educational disparities in Philadelphia — by Elizabeth DeOrnellas, Fallon Roth, Edith Mwangi, The Logan Center for Urban Investigative
Finalist: Buried beneath: The fight to clean up toxic contamination in the Bronx — by Aminata Gueye, Ryan Pullido, Emmanuel Valerio, Pablo Reyes., Citylimits, City University of New York
Finalist: Climate adaptation in Namibia’s drought-stricken Kunene region — by Mandile Mpofu, Pulitzer Center, Boston University

In-Depth Reporting (Small)
Winner: Experiences of BIPOC students in performing arts reveal patterns of discrimination at Ithaca College — by Prakriti Panwar, The Ithacan, Ithaca College
Finalist: New England has a Nazi problem -- here's how activists around the Boston area are fighting it — by Cayenn Landau, Natalie F. Kahn, The Justice, Brandeis University
Finalist: Ithaca College community questions Yellow Deli and Twelve Tribes presence — by Caitlin Holtzman, The Ithacan, Ithaca College

Feature Writing (Large)
Winner: Guinea pig elegy in three movements — by Mira Sydow, The Woodlands Magazine, University of Pennsylvania
Finalist: Napalm, birthed in Harvard’s basement — by Ryan H. Đoàn-Nguyễn, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard College
Finalist: How Gen Z became the face of skincare marketing — by Jenny DeStefano, The NewsHouse, Syracuse University

Feature Writing (Small)
Winner: Unafraid to be unique: ‘Napoleon Boy’ — by Layla Warshaw, The Brown and White, Lehigh University
Finalist: The guardian of the North Cut — by Cayenn Landau, The Justice, Brandeis University
Finalist: AUC Student Milus Tóth has sued the Dutch Government – and won thousands of euros — by Levin Stamm, Lisa Jesudas, The Herring, Amsterdam University College

Sports Writing (Large)
Winner: American colleges feed the Women’s World Cup with talent — by Joe Lister, Comm Media, Pennsylvania State University
Finalist: Breaking the ice: Social, geographic, and financial barriers create obstacles for ice hockey — by Heather Chen, Erica Lee, Columbia Daily Spectator, Columbia University
Finalist: Colleges lacks resources for addiction to online sports gambling — by Lizzy Reardon, The NewsHouse, Syracuse University

Sports Writing (Small)
Winner: Is the Tenney Stadium turf responsible for ACL injury concerns? — by Max Zart, Centerfield / Marist Circle, Marist College
Finalist: The center at center stage: Football player shares his passion for performance — by Ray Milburn, The Ithacan, Ithaca College

Editorial/Opinion Writing
Winner: The Crimson Editorial Board — by Editorial Staff, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard College
Finalist: The Gatepost Editorials — by Editorial Board, The Gatepost, Framingham State
Finalist: Showcasing the highs and lows of Black art — by Brianna Harris, Okayplayer, Baruch College

General Column Writing
Winner: Outside the binary — by Mujuni Mirembe, The Brown and White, Lehigh University
Finalist: Columns — by Leighah Beausoleil, The Gatepost, Framingham State
Finalist: Harvard’s professional pipelines — by Julien Berman, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard College

Corbin Gwaltney Award for Best All-Around Student Newspaper (Large)
Winner: The Harvard Crimson — by Staff, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard College
Finalist: The Vector — by Staff, The Vector, New Jersey Institute of Technology
Finalist: The Brown Daily Herald — by Staff, The Brown Daily Herald, Brown University

Corbin Gwaltney Award for Best All-Around Student Newspaper (Small)
Winner: The Ithacan — by Staff, The Ithacan, Ithaca College
Finalist: The Globe — by Staff, The Globe, Point Park University

Best Single-issue Student Magazine
Winner: Scienceline KIDS — by Staff, Scienceline, New York University

Best Ongoing Student Magazine
Winner: Moody Magazine — by Staff, Moody Magazine, Syracuse University
Finalist: The New Journal — by Staff, The New Journal, Yale University
Finalist: Jerk — by Staff, Jerk, Syracuse University

Best Affiliated Web Site
Winner: Columbia Daily Spectator — by Staff, Columbia Daily Spectator, Columbia University
Finalist: Zipped — by Staff, Zipped, Syracuse University
Finalist: Moody Magazine — by Staff, Moody Magazine, Syracuse University

Best Independent Online Student Publication
Winner: Infodemic — by Staff, Infodemic, Syracuse University
Finalist: NYCity News Service — by Staff, NYCity News Service, City University of New York

Art/Graphics/Multimedia

Breaking News Photography
Winner: Stranded in Senegal — by Mark Benchereau, NYCity News Service, City University of New York
Finalist: Rutgers week long strike marks historic win for union workers — by Julia Meriney, The College VOICE, Mercer County Community College
Finalist: Take Back the Night — by Bennett Hense, The NewsHouse, Syracuse University

General News Photography
Winner: Harvard Art Museums ‘Die-in’ — by J. Sellers Hill, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard College

Feature Photography
Winner: Boston Ballet’s Fall Experience — by Addison Y. Lui, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard College
Finalist: Whipping up some fun — by Maddison Behringer, The Gatepost, Framingham State
Finalist: Exploring all seven continents — by Phoebe Schechner, Crescent magazine, Southern Connecticut State University

Photo Essay/Slideshow
Winner: Southside footsteps — by Xinning Li, The NewsHouse, Syracuse University
Finalist: Pro-Palestine Harvard Students occupy University Hall for 24 hours — by Joey Huang, Julian J. Giordano, Frank S. Zhou, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard College
Finalist: Fans of the world: The 2023 Women’s World Cup down under — by Alysa Rubin, Penn State/AP, Pennsylvania State University

Illustration
Winner: The Housing Issue — by Mindy Choi, The Hawk Newspaper, St. Joseph's University
Finalist: Peer wellness — by Areej Qamar, The Vector, New Jersey Institute of Technology
Finalist: Looking for a dean — by Toby R. Ma, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard College

Photo Illustration
Winner: Fresh Squeezed Sports Podcast covers — by Cole Ross, The NewsHouse, Syracuse University
Finalist: Doechii live in concert — by Maxine Wallace, The NewsHouse, Syracuse University
Finalist: Gay testifies before Congress on antisemitism — by Toby R. Ma, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard College

Sports Photography
Winner: Cup consolation — by Rafaela Pontes, AP/Penn State, Pennsylvania State University
Finalist: Flippin' football — by Kayla Breen, The NewsHouse, Syracuse University
Finalist: Eliminated — by Rafaela Pontes, AP/Penn State, Pennsylvania State University

Best Use of Multimedia
Winner: Queens street name stories — by Staff, NYCity News Service, City University of New York

News Videography
Winner: Coney Island residents oppose Casion — by Rhiannon Rashidi, Harlem View, The City College of New York

Feature Videography
Winner: Kay & Mal — by Collin Bell, The NewsHouse, Syracuse University
Finalist: The hair of the doll — by Sonja Anderson, Amaya McDonald, NYCity News Service, City University of New York
Finalist: Dandelion — by Wendy Wang, The NewsHouse, Syracuse University

Data Visualization
Winner: Medical center to launch ‘diversity in clinical trials’ training program as racial disparities — by Adina Cazacu-De Luca, Paulette Del Valle, Rainier Harris, Columbia Daily Spectator, Columbia University
Finalist: Two weeks before elections, incumbent Cambridge councilors lead fundraising race — by Julian J. Giordano, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard College

Audio

Radio News Reporting
Winner: How tenants could change the future of NYCHA — by Kimberly Izar, AudioFiles, City University of New York
Finalist: Community activists call on Gov. Hochul to sign the Wrongful Conviction Act — by Alex Krales, AudioFiles, City University of New York
Finalist: Hidden identity — by Ronnie Parrillo, NCC News, Syracuse University

Radio Feature
Winner: Maggie Michael's road from Cairo to Yemen to a Pultizer — by Vereena Bishoy El-Kess Armia Boules, AUC Radio, The American University in Cairo
Finalist: A modern look at a 4,000-year-old game — by Kimberly Izar, AudioFiles, City University of New York

Radio In-Depth Reporting
Winner: How museums can misrepresent people and cultures — by Charles Sirey, WAER, Syracuse University
Finalist: Phone scammers wreak havoc on Americans and their wallets — by Alejandro Rosales, WAER, Syracuse University

Radio Sports Reporting
Winner: Playing for something bigger — by Jordan Leonard, WAER, Syracuse University
Finalist: Big game update — by Nicholas Lubrano, Matthew Sosler, Jayden Becker, Dane Richardson., WICB-FM, Ithaca College

Podcast (Narrative)
Winner: The Unabomber: The man, the myth, and the manifesto — by Staff, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard College
Finalist: Mapping rurality: Defining Columbia’s ‘rural student’ — by Claire Schnatterbeck, Claire Burke, Columbia Daily Spectator, Columbia University
Finalist: Pandas on Ice: The story of America's first women's college hockey team — by STaff, The Brown Daily Herald, Brown University

Podcast (Conversational)
Winner: Affirmative Action falls: Inside the protests at Harvard and Washington D.C. — by Staff, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard College
Finalist: Franco's immaculate legacy — by Josh Moyer, Ben Taylor, Adam Babetski, Karyn Schaller, Bellisario Podcasting, Pennsylvania State University
Finalist: To tell the truth: An NCC News Spotlight podcast — by Jared Johnston; Zach Goldman; Jack Oberlander; Kamryn Page, NCC News Spotlight Team, Syracuse University

Broadcast

Television Breaking News Reporting
Winner: Pro-Palestinian protestors gather at Syracuse University — by Peyton Spellacy, CitrusTV, Syracuse University
Finalist: Two people detained during free speech rally — by Emily McGlynn, Centre County Report, Pennsylvania State University

Television General News Reporting
Winner: Syracuse reacts to controversial speaker — by Nicole Aponte, CitrusTV, Syracuse University
Finalist: Zipcar zooms out of Syracuse — by John Perik, NCC News, Syracuse University
Finalist: Local reaction to escalating Israel-Hamas war — by Olivia Jean, Centre County Report, Pennsylvania State University

Television Feature Reporting
Winner: Miraculous Marathon Meg — by John Perik, CitrusTV, Syracuse University
Finalist: The HK Unicorn Squad: Empowering women and girls in Estonia — by Hannah Markovich, Centre County Report, Pennsylvania State University
Finalist: Preaching pride to the choir — by Nicole Aponte, NCC News, Syracuse University

Television In-Depth Reporting
Winner: Estonia’s past influences current military stance — by Carlos Garcia, Centre County Report, Pennsylvania State University
Finalist: ICTV Reports: Drag performers create community in small cities — by Grant Johnson, Ithaca College Television, Ithaca College
Finalist: Sidelined — by Naoufal Enhari, Amanda Kari McHugh, 219West TV News Magazine, City University of New York

Television Sports Reporting
Winner: Fighting For Rudy: A source of inspiration — by Dugan Lloyd, Centre County Report, Pennsylvania State University
Finalist: Is Syracuse/Clemson really a rivalry? — by Chilekasi Adele, CitrusTV, Syracuse University
Finalist: Penn State Boxing: A century and counting — by Juan Mendez, Centre County Report, Penn State University

Best All-Around Television Newscast
Winner: Centre County Report — by Staff, Centre County Report, Penn State University
Finalist: CitrusTV News Live at 6 — by Staff, CitrusTV, Syracuse University

Best All-Around Television News Magazine
Winner: Hofstra Today — by Grace Madden, Emma Pelletier, and the Hofstra Today team, HEAT Network, Hofstra University

All Platform

Arts/Entertainment/Fashion Journalism
Winner: Les Adore shakes up production at Harvard — by Katie A. Silverman, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard College
Finalist: Jah Fiinesse goes lyrical — by Othniel Cassie Jr, Harlem View, The City College of New York
Finalist: Arts columns — by Vivienne N. Germain, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard University

Campus Reporting
Winner: Doxxed Harvard students decry online harassment, call for greater support from University — by Joyce E. Kim, Asher J. Montgomery, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard College
Finalist: ‘We’re the ones being targeted’: Pro-Palestinian affiliates report harassment, threats — by Esha Karam, Sarah Huddleston, Sabrina Ticer-Wurr, Columbia Daily Spectator, Columbia University
Finalist: ‘A structural issue that no one seems to be working to solve’: Barnard transfer students report — by Maya Stahl, Columbia Daily Spectator, Columbia University

Cultural Criticism
Winner: Difficult conversations through art — by Makayla I. Gathers, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard College

Food/Restaurant Journalism
Winner: Momos as a form of resistance — by Sajina Shrestha, AudioFiles, City University of New York
Finalist: Full circle — by Murphy McFarlane, The NewsHouse, Syracuse University

Investigative Reporting
Winner: Dead wrong — by Staff, NYCity News Service, City University of New York
Finalist: ‘Still unresolved’: Harvard student group missing approximately $30,000 after leadership dispute — by J. Sellers Hill, Sage S. Lattman, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard College
Finalist: ‘Walking on eggshells’: Inside Public Safety’s leadership crisis — by Zachary Schermele, Columbia Daily Spectator, Columbia University

Regional Political Reporting
Winner: Successful write-in campaign stirs conversation about Ithaca’s political climate — by Lorien Tyne, The Ithacan, Ithaca College

Retail/Small Business Journalism
Winner: South Bronx businesses battle back — by Staff, NYCity News Service, City University of New York

Science/Environment/Climate Reporting
Winner: Assets to Axes: How Harvard’s land investments inspired fear in Brazil’s Cerrado — by Sazi T. Bongwe, Jade Lozada, The Harvard Crimson, Harvard College
Finalist: Why so few get screened for lung cancer, the deadliest cancer in the U.S. — by Simar Bajaj, STAT News, Harvard University

SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to informing citizens; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and fights to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member, give to the Legal Defense Fund or give to the SPJ Foundation.

-END-

SPJ Ethics Committee denounces checkbook journalism with news coverage of Trump’s trial

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

CONTACT
Ashanti Blaize-Hopkins, SPJ National President, ashanti.blaize@gmail.com
Chris Roberts, SPJ Professional Standards and Ethics Committee Vice Chair, croberts@ua.edu
Kim Tsuyuki, SPJ Communications Specialist, ktsuyuki@hq.spj.org

INDIANAPOLIS – As Americans follow the criminal trial of former President Donald J. Trump, The Society of Professional Journalists wants the public to recognize that journalistic practices mentioned during opening statements, and by the first witness, are unethical under the SPJ Code of Ethics.

In today’s opening statement, defense attorney Todd Blanche said The National Enquirer’s practices of paying sources for news and “catch-and-kill” are standard journalistic practice.

Any news organization that pays for information – and especially buys information to keep it from the public – is not following the SPJ Code of Ethics “Act Independently” section.

“It is clearly unethical,” said SPJ National President Ashanti Blaize-Hopkins. “Paying for exclusive access to interviews – such as paying for home movies of a missing child or using a company jet to bring a dad and his kidnapped child back from South America, both real-life examples – is bad enough.”

The trial’s first witness, former National Enquirer publisher David Pecker, acknowledged the tabloid practice of “checkbook journalism” – paying sources for information. SPJ notes that this is an unacceptable practice for many reasons, “Be wary of sources offering information for favors or money; do not pay for access to news. Identify content provided by outside sources, whether paid or not.”

The SPJ Code of Ethics is not, under the First Amendment, legally enforceable, but it provides guidelines that describe the minimum ethical behaviors and aspirations of journalism. The SPJ Ethics Committee has written multiple times against such practices.

SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to informing citizens; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and fights to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member, give to the Legal Defense Fund or give to the SPJ Foundation.

-END-

Region 9 Mark of Excellence Awards 2023 winners announced

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

CONTACT:
Lou Harry, SPJ Manager of Publications and Awards, lharry@spj.org
Kimberly Tsuyuki, SPJ Communications Coordinator, ktsuyuki@hq.spj.org

INDIANAPOLIS — The Society of Professional Journalists recognizes the best collegiate journalism in Region 9 with 2023 Mark of Excellence Awards winners.

SPJ’s Region 9 comprises Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming. First-place winners will compete at the national level among other MOE winners from the 12 SPJ regions.

National winners will be notified in the late spring.

MOE Awards entries are judged by professionals with at least three years of journalism experience. Judges were directed to choose entries they felt were among the best in student journalism. If no entry rose to the level of excellence, no award was given. Any category not listed has no winner.

School divisions are based on student enrollment, including both graduate and undergraduate: Large schools have at least 10,000 students and small schools have 9,999 or fewer students.

The list below details all Region 9 winners. If you have any questions regarding the MOE Awards, contact SPJ Manager of Publications and Awards Lou Harry by email.

This list reflects the spelling and titles submitted in the award entries.

Print/Online

Breaking News Reporting
Winner: Poudre school district tables vote on Polaris school merger — by Alexandra Seibel, The Rocky Mountain Collegian, Colorado State University
Finalist: University of Utah to pay $5 million settlement to the parents of Zhifan Dong — by Andrew Christiansen, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah
Finalist: Students pack City Council chambers, demonstrate against U+2 — by Grant Coursey, The Rocky Mountain Collegian, Colorado State University

General News Reporting
Winner: BYU students may be impacted by latest DACA update — by Ivette Galvez Laparra, The Daily Universe, Brigham Young University
Finalist: Student government addresses genocide comments from member — by Sara Martin, Travis Brooks, The Metropolitan, Metropolitan State University of Denver
Finalist: Utah's gender-affirming care ban is harmful to transgender youth, professors and trans student say — by Stevie Shaughnessey, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah

In-Depth Reporting
Finalist: U students share experiences navigating the OEO process — by Crystal Rose Fraughton, Rachel Kloepfer, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah
Finalist: Union frustration grows at MSU Denver over faculty workload — by Madeline Terlep, The Metropolitan, Metropolitan State University of Denver
Winner: U origins: A clearer picture of philanthropy at the U and how it has shaped campus — by MJ Jewkes, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah

Feature Writing (Large)
Winner: U professor’s exhibit honors 2006 Immigration Reform March — by Libbey Hanson, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah
Finalist: BYU student fights against racism through cultural dance — by Ivette Galvez Laparra, The Daily Universe, Brigham Young University |
Finalist: Meet the U student running for SLC mayor — by CJ Alexander, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah

Sports Writing
Winner: How a changing media landscape influenced the U's move to the Big 12 — by Austin Eames, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah

General Column Writing
Winner: Madeline Van Wagenen — by Madeline Van Wagenen, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah
Finalist: Columns — by Kayla Lien, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah
Finalist: Columns — by Harper Hargis, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah

Corbin Gwaltney Award for Best All-Around Student Newspaper (Large)
Winner: The Signpost — by Kennedy Camarena, The Signpost, Weber State University
Finalist: The Daily Utah Chronicle — by Staff, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah
Finalist: The Rocky Mountain Collegian — by Staff, The Rocky Mountain Collegian, Colorado State University

Best Ongoing Student Magazine
Winner: College Avenue Magazine — by Staff, College Avenue Magazine, Colorado State University
Finalist: The Daily Universe — by Staff, The Daily Universe, Brigham Young University

Best Independent Online Student Publication
Winner: CU Independent — by Staff, CU Independent, University of Colorado Boulder

Art/Graphics/Multimedia

Breaking News Photography
Winner: Bill banning gender-affirming care for Utah minors passes — by Xiangyao “Axe” Tang, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah

General News Photography
Winner: Candlelight vigil for Israel — by Garrett Mogel, The Rocky Mountain Collegian, Colorado State University
Finalist: BYU Arab Student Association aims to foster unity in times of strife — by Amy Ortiz, The Daily Universe, Brigham Young University
Finalist: A look at drag culture and representation at the U — by Minh Vuong, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah

Feature Photography
Winner: Support first responders and their families’ mental health — by Sarah Karr, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah
Finalist: Lust For life — by Citlali Mares, Talon Magazine, Community College of Denver
Finalist: Locals climb 110 stories at LaVell Edwards Stadium to honor 9/11 heroes — by Anna Hair, The Daily Universe, Brigham Young University

Photo Essay/Slideshow
Winner: Canyoneering class highlight — by Sophie Felici, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah
Finalist: 2023 Utah Pride Parade — A colorful celebration of love and acceptance — by Marco Lozzi, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah
Finalist: Free Palestine protest at Denver Capitol — by Garrett Mogel, Milo Gladstein, The Rocky Mountain Collegian, Colorado State University
Illustration
Winner: Navigating student finances — by Star Neil, The Signpost, Weber State University
Finalist: Support your local SLC bookstores — by Mary Allen, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah
Finalist: College athletes are in danger of systemic dehumanization — by Kristofer Hoon, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah

Photo Illustration
Winner: Navigating student finances — by Star Neil, The Signpost, Weber State University
Finalist: Support your local SLC bookstores — by Mary Allen, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah
Finalist: College athletes are in danger of systemic dehumanization — by Kristofer Hoon, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah

Sports Photography
Winner: Utah Men’s Basketball upsets unbeaten BYU to win the Holy War — by Xiangyao “Axe” Tang, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah
Finalist: Utah Men’s Basketball narrowly escapes upset in win over Southern Utah — by Mary Allen, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah
Finalist: Bucking bronco — by Kennedy Camarena, The Signpost, Weber State University

Best Use of Multimedia
Winner: Humanitarian organization Eagle Condor helps people find their wings — by Lynnette McConkie, BYU Universe, Brigham Young University
Finalist: BYU Special Olympics focus on lifelong friendships — by Ethan Porter, BYU Universe Live, Brigham Young University
Finalist: Angel Flight West brings Christmas to hundreds of Utah children — by Alice Gubler, The Daily Universe, Brigham Young University

News Videography
Winner: University of Denver's paranormal Mary Reed building? — by Elsie Buczkowski, DU Media, University of Denver
Finalist: Denver Mayoral candidates face off at DU — by Cassis Tingley, DU Media, University of Denver
Finalist: Sharing living water: Improving the hydraulic resources in the Dominican Republic — by Liesel Allen, Alyssa Regis, Derek VanBuskirk, BYU Universe Live, Brigham Young University

Feature Videography
Winner: Spreading Stikbuds across Denver — by Eden Bollschweiler, DU Media, University of Denver

Data Visualization
Winner: Lack of suicide resources — by Grace Haglund, The Signpost, Weber State University

Audio

Radio News Reporting
Winner: Dying Great Salt Lake — by Hannah Nelson, Aggie Radio, Utah State University
Finalist: Abdullah's story — by Dakota Makinen, KGNU, University of Colorado Boulder

Radio Feature
Winner: Chernobyl — by Leon Spiess, KVCU, University of Colorado Boulder

Radio In-Depth Reporting
Winner: Boulder Housing Coalition — by Jack Armstrong, KVCU, University of Colorado Boulder

Podcast (Conversational)
Winner: Overwriter — by Juanita Hurtado, KVCU, University of Colorado Boulder
Finalist: Coming into queerness with KCSU & the Pride Resource Center — by Erin Fuller, KCSU, Colorado State University

Podcast (Narrative)
Winner: Teenage PTSD — by Lily Wright, KVCU, University of Colorado Boulder
Finalist: Your favorite place — by Jack Armstrong, KVCU, University of Colorado Boulder

Broadcast

Television Breaking News Reporting
Winner: Utahns rally at the Capitol to support Ukraine one year after Russian invasion — by Trevor Myers, BYU Universe Live, Brigham Young University

Television General News Reporting
Winner: Wild turkey invasion — by Anna Johnson, A-TV News, Utah State University
Finalist: BYU Special Olympics focus on lifelong friendships — by Ethan Porter, Universe Live, Brigham Young University
Finalist: ChatGPT hits campus — by Kainoa Johnson, A-TV News, Utah State University

Television Feature Reporting
Winner: A woman's journey from addict to caregiver — by Bella Zafer; Cassis Tingley, DU Media, University of Denver
Finalist: Hottest gathering in town — by Zahra Nasir, A-TV News, Utah State University

Television In-Depth Reporting
Winner: Losing our lifeblood — by Clayre Scott, Anna Johnson, A-TV News, Utah State University
Finalist: Rumbula remembered: Preserving the memory of the WWII massacre in Riga — by Emma Everett Johnson, Ethan Porter, Universe Live, Brigham Young University
Finalist: Nuclear energy: Deadly disaster or futuristic fuel? — by Tom Isaacson, Collegian TV, Colorado State University

Television Sports Reporting
Winner: Are fans going too far? — by Clayre Scott, A-TV News, Utah State University
Finalist: CSU Softball alumni pave the way for today’s Rams — by Madeline Davis, Collegian TV, Colorado State University

Best All-Around Television Newscast
Winner: A-TV News — by Staff, A-TV News, Utah State University

Best All-Around Television Magazine
Winner: Cache Rendezvous — by Staff, A-TV News, Utah State University
Finalist: BYU Universe — by Staff, BYU Universe, Brigham Young University
Finalist: Universe Live — by Staff, BYU Universe, Brigham Young University

All Platform

Arts/Fashion Journalism
Winner: Funny you mention that: A closer look at the FoCo comedy scene — by Cassidy DuFore Payne, College Avenue, Colorado State University
Finalist: The School of Dance presents Balanchine’s ‘Serenade’ — by Haley Freeman, The Daily Utah Chronicle, University of Utah

Campus Reporting
Winner: Injured students find ways to get around campus — by Annika Ohran, The Daily Universe, Brigham Young University
Finalist: Agar art competition blends science and art while encouraging experiential learning — by Bryan Barba Salazar, The Daily Universe, Brigham Young University

Food/Restaurant Journalism
Winner: Father-daughter BYU alums sweeten up Provo with cheesecake shop — by Andrew Osborn, The Daily Universe, Brigham Young University
Finalist: Backyard Bird Chicken and Donuts flies away with expectations — by Gideon Aigner, Collegian TV, Colorado State University

Regional Political Reporting
Winner: BYU student vies for city council seat with $0 campaign — by Emma Everett Johnson, The Daily Universe, Brigham Young University
Finalist: Domestic violence bill passes in Utah Senate, parents of Gabby Petito attend vote — by Joel Leighton, The Daily Universe, Brigham Young University

Retail/Small Business Journalism
Winner: Small business Madi Stitches thrives on social media — by Emma Everett Johnson, The Daily Universe, Brigham Young University

Science/Environment Reporting
Winner: Historic Utah snowfall a step toward drought control, government officials say — by Josh Rust, The Daily Universe, Brigham Young University

SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to informing citizens; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and fights to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member, give to the Legal Defense Fund or give to the SPJ Foundation.

-END-

Region 10 Mark of Excellence Awards 2023 winners announced

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

-END-

Region 2 Mark of Excellence Awards 2023 winners announced

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

CONTACT:
Lou Harry, SPJ Manager of Publications and Awards, lharry@spj.org
Kimberly Tsuyuki, SPJ Communications Coordinator, ktsuyuki@hq.spj.org

INDIANAPOLIS — The Society of Professional Journalists recognizes the best collegiate journalism in Region 2 with 2023 Mark of Excellence Awards winners.

SPJ’s Region 2 comprises Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, North Carolina and Virginia. First-place winners will compete at the national level among other MOE winners from the 12 SPJ regions.

National winners will be notified in the late spring.

MOE Awards entries are judged by professionals with at least three years of journalism experience. Judges were directed to choose entries they felt were among the best in student journalism. If no entry rose to the level of excellence, no award was given. Any category not listed has no winner.

School divisions are based on student enrollment, including both graduate and undergraduate: Large schools have at least 10,000 students and small schools have 9,999 or fewer students.

The list below details all Region 2 winners. If you have any questions regarding the MOE Awards, contact SPJ Manager of Publications and Awards Lou Harry by email.

This list reflects the spelling and titles submitted in the award entries.

Print/Online

Breaking News Reporting (Large)
Winner: College Park Mayor Patrick Wojahn resigns as he faces child pornography charges — by Katharine Wilson, Nene Narh-Mensah, The Diamondback, University of Maryland
Finalist: McClellan’s whirlwind congressional campaign ends with decisive, historic victory — by Faith Redd, VCU Capital News Service, Virginia Commonwealth University
Finalist: In Washington, Zelenskyy makes pleas to Congress and the White House for more aid — by Josie Jack, Monica Godnick, Capital News Service, University of Maryland - College Park

Breaking News Reporting (Small)
Winner: Faculty member killed in shooting at UNC Chapel Hill — by Abigail Hobbs, Elon News Network, Elon University

General News Reporting (Large)
Winner: Liz Wheeler appearance sparks controversy — by Staff, The Breeze, James Madison University
Finalist: ‘No one came around for days’: Senior and disabled residents describe 35-hour Christmas blackout — by Chloe Nguyen, The 9th Street Journal, Duke University
Finalist: Howard Sophomores tried to help a beaten man. Then, they were assaulted for it — by Jasper Smith and Jacky "JD" Jean-Jacques, The Hilltop, Howard University

General News Reporting (Small)
Winner: Elon University senior staff members' leaving shakes up university — by Abigail Hobbs, Elon News Network, Elon University
Finalist: Getting close with Glenn Close: Notable alumni and eight-time Oscar nominee returns to campus — by Emma Henry, Abigail Connelly, The Flat Hat, The College of William and Mary
Finalist: Safety report indicates a surge in stalking cases — by Raven Hanning, The Pine Needle, University of North Carolina Pembroke

In-Depth Reporting (Large)
Winner: Staff shortages in Howard Mental Health Services leave some students without support — by Tamilore Oshikanlu, Khiara Davis-Howard, The Hilltop, Howard University
Finalist: Mixed feelings reported by students after TimelyCare's first active year — by Charlotte Matherly, The Breeze, James Madison University
Finalist: She saw her mother get murdered; now she works to protect families — by Shelby Swanson, UNC Media Hub, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

In-Depth Reporting (Small)
Winner: Alamance-Burlington schools grapple with financial strain after summer mold crisis — by Sophie Rosenthal, Elon News Network, Elon University
Finalist: Waitlist contributes to rise in off-campus housing demand — by Molly Parks, The Flat Hat, The College of William and Mary
Finalist: The business of college sports and gender-based wage gaps for head coaches — by Ananya Chetia, The Collegian, University of Richmond

Feature Writing (Large)
Winner: Chasing a mystery: Why was his family in a WWII detention camp in Asheville, NC? — by Mika Travis, UNC Media Hub, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Finalist: Farewell to panda-monium: National Zoo’s iconic bears going to China with no replacements — by Abby Wallace, Ryan Mercado, Capital News Service, University of Maryland - College Park
Finalist: ‘School shootings have followed us’: Life as a college student amid unending gun violence — by Staff, The Diamondback, University of Maryland

Feature Writing (Small)
Winner: Little boxes on the hillside — by William Zimmerman, The Assembly, Wake Forest University
Finalist: From ‘burg to ‘burg: From St. Petersburg to Williamsburg, tour guide Vladimir Sokolov shares his story — by Agavni Mehrabi, Solyana Feseha, The Flat Hat, The College of William and Mary
Finalist: Transness at UR: Students and staff seek inclusivity on campus, yet challenges remain — by Kelsey McCabe, The Collegian, University of Richmond

Sports Writing (Large)
Winner: 50 years later, the 1973 Guilford men’s basketball team reminisces on their NAIA title — by Kaitlyn Schmidt, UNC Media Hub, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Finalist: The Meltzer Center’s true cost: Community sports — by Delaney Hoke, Penelope Jennings, The Eagle, American University
Finalist: Self-evaluate, adjust and refuel: Inside Maryland women’s basketball’s whirlwind halftime — by Sam Jane, The Diamondback, University of Maryland

Sports Writing (Small)
Winner: King of the court: Jordan King’s Spider debut one to remember — by Jimmy James, The Collegian, University of Richmond
Finalist: Community weighs transgender sports ban — by Miles Hayford, Elon News Network, Elon University

General Column Writing
Winner: Columns — by Jessica Ye, The Diamondback, University of Maryland

Sports Column Writing
Winner: Good, bad and ugly — by Chance Chamberlain, Ethan Smith, The Appalachian, Appalachian State University

Corbin Gwaltney Award for Best All-Around Student Newspaper (Large)
Winner: The Breeze — by Staff, The Breeze, James Madison University
Finalist: The Appalachian — by Staff, The Appalachian, Appalachian State University
Finalist: The Western Carolinian — by Staff, The Western Carolinian, Western Carolina University

Corbin Gwaltney Award for Best All-Around Student Newspaper (Small)
Winner: The Pendulum — by Staff, The Pendulum, Elon University
Finalist: The Flat Hat — by Staff, The Flat Hat, The College of William and Mary
Finalist: The Pine Needle — by Staff, The Pine Needle, University of North Carolina Pembroke

Best Ongoing Student Magazine
Winner: Emanata Comics Anthology — by Staff, Emanata Comics Anthology, Virginia Commonwealth University
Finalist: Countenance — by Staff, Countenance, East Carolina University
Finalist: The Appalachian — by Staff, The Appalachian, Appalachian State University

Best Affiliated Web Site
Winner: The Appalachian website — by Staff, The Appalachian, Appalachian State University
Finalist: Elon News Network — by Staff, Elon News Network, Elon University

Best Independent Online Student Publication
Winner: Capital News Service — by Staff, Capital News Service, University of Maryland - College Park

Art/Graphics/Multimedia

Breaking News Photography
Winner: Fire engulfs abandoned mill in Graham as nearby homes evacuated — by Joseph Navin, Elon News Network, Elon University

General News Photography
Winner: Elon community reacts to Israel-Hamas war — by Joseph Navin, Elon News Network, Elon University

Feature Photography
Winner: Black History Month concert — by Katherine Martin, Elon News Network, Elon University

Photo Essay/Slideshow
Winner: Always dancing — by Clare Grant, Elon News Network, Elon University
Finalist: Belk Library through a day’s light — by Staff, The Appalachian, Appalachian State University

Illustration
Winner: We are just as misinformed as our parents. — by Olivia McCabe, The Commonwealth Times, Virginia Commonwealth University

Sports Photography
Winner: Maryland men’s basketball blows out Rider, 103-76, for third consecutive win — by Rohan Pandit, The Diamondback, University of Maryland

Best Use of Multimedia
Winner: Down to ride — by Thomas Denome, Elon News Network, Elon University

Data Visualization
Winner: Maryland Women’s Basketball regular season attendance skyrockets but inequality still prevalent — by Victoria A. Ifatusin, Cameron Jones, Capital News Service, University of Maryland - College Park
Finalist: Elon's revolving door — by Erin Martin, Elon News Network, Elon University
Finalist: Analyzing campus recreation center usage: How to avoid crowds at the rec — by Lisa Coleman, The Flat Hat, The College of William and Mary

Audio

Radio News Reporting
Winner: Drink-friendly ‘social districts’ are spreading across North Carolina — by Sophie Mallinson, Carolina Connection, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Radio Feature
Winner: The Audubon Society’s annual Christmas Bird Count is part recreation, part science — by Brianna Atkinson, Carolina Connection, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Radio In-Depth Reporting
Winner: Continuing coverage: Campus shooting and lockdowns — by Staff, Carolina Connection, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Best All-Around Radio Newscast
Winner: Carolina Connection — by Staff, Carolina Connection, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Podcast (Narrative)
Winner: Elon professor and Iraqi native wants to return home — by Margaret Faust, Elon News Network, Elon University
Finalist: Ripped from the Wall — by Staff, AWOL Magazine, American University
Finalist: AMTC’s ‘The Addams Family’ — by Hannah Byars, The Appalachian, Appalachian State University

Podcast (Conversational)
Winner: 'We're human beings': Homeless Chapel Hill residents ask for kindness, respect — by William Christensen, CarolinaCast, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Finalist: Mountaineer Media Swap — by Pruett Norris, Briley Turpin, The Appalachian, Appalachian State University

Broadcast

Television General News Reporting
Winner: The impact of social media — by Muhsin Mahmoud, Carolina Week, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Finalist: March for Israel protest — by Tolulope Ajayi, CNS-TV News, University of Maryland - College Park

Television Feature Reporting
Winner: Rescued horses — by Barbara Ron, CNS-TV News, University of Maryland - College Park
Finalist: Love like Adam — by Kayla Brown, Breeze TV, James Madison University
Finalist: Uber Eats biker — by Keara Bruno, CNS-TV News, University of Maryland - College Park

Television In-Depth Reporting
Winner: DC crime solutions — by Tolulope Ajayi, CNS-TV News, University of Maryland - College Park
Finalist: Generation Z's history of gun violence — by Emily Host, Madison Hricik, Olivia Roth, Zia Faqiri, Breeze TV, James Madison University
Finalist: Deadly shooting investigation — by Steven Schlink, Carolina Week, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Television Sports Reporting
Winner: When Reagan Smith started wrestling in middle school, she was the only girl — by Olivia Mundorf, UNC Media Hub, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Finalist: A paralympic swimmer’s two-part race against time — by Isabella Geskos, UNC Media Hub, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Best All-Around Television Newscast
Winner: VCU InSight — by Staff, VCU InSight, Virginia Commonwealth University
Finalist: Carolina Week — by Staff, Carolina Week, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Best All-Around Television News Magazine
Winner: Carolina Week — by Staff, Carolina Week, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

All Platforms

Arts/Entertainment/Fashion Journalism
Winner: Autistic dancer at Elon University encourages accessibility in dance spaces — by Betsy Schlehuber, Elon News Network, Elon University
Finalist: Finding folk: The Festival of Discovery — by Jenna Manderioli, Elon News Network, Elon University
Finalist: Costume design enhances characterization, comedy, time period of 17th-century comedy — by Peggy Stansbery, Virginia Commonwealth University

Campus Reporting
Winner: VCU NAACP leads students/faculty march against postponement of required racial literacy course and other columns — by Tarazha Jenkins, The Commonwealth Times, Virginia Commonwealth University
Finalist: Recount reveals increase in reported rape/sexual assault on campus and other columns — by Andrew Kerley, The Commonwealth Times, Virginia Commonwealth University
Finalist: VCI PD makes traffic safety improvements after student death on campus and other columns — by Katie Farthing, The Commonwealth Times, Virginia Commonwealth University

Cultural Criticism
Winner: Commentary — by Kofi Mframa, The Commonwealth Times, Virginia Commonwealth University
Finalist: Film reviews — by Pruett Norris, The Appalachian, Appalachian State University
Finalist: Film reviews — by Harrison Ferger, The Pine Needle, University of North Carolina Pembroke

Investigative Reporting
Winner: Bare minimum of legality: Students, faculty and staff face ongoing challenges with accessibility — by Walker Whalen, The Eagle, American University
Finalist: Antisemitism and hate at App State — by Staff, The Appalachian, Appalachian State University
Finalist: In a pinball machine — by Abigail Turner, The Eagle, American University

Regional Political Reporting
Winner: General Assembly reports — by Anna Chen, VCU Capital News Service, Virginia Commonwealth University
Finalist: Casinos, gun control and abortion-rights: VCU students vote in the General Assembly election — by Selna Shi; Jack Glagola, The Commonwealth Times, Virginia Commonwealth University

Retail/Small Business Journalism
Winner: Oh my gourd-ness: The New River Farm fall event — by Meg Frantz, The Appalachian, Appalachian State University
Finalist: Marking history and highlighting culture to attract Black tourists in Virginia — by Kaiana Lee, Payden Wilson, VCU InSight/VCU Capital News Service, Virginia Commonwealth University
Finalist: Nonprofit record label centers around representation — by Natalie Barr, The Commonwealth Times, Virginia Commonwealth University

Science/Environment/Climate Reporting
Winner: Unpredictable cherry blossom blooms underscores climate change concerns — by Hannah Ziegler, Capital News Service, University of Maryland - College Park

SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to informing citizens; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and fights to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member, give to the Legal Defense Fund or give to the SPJ Foundation.

-END-

Updates to SPJ Code of Ethics online interactive links

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

CONTACT:
Chris Roberts, SPJ Professional Standards and Ethics Committee Vice Chair, croberts@ua.edu
Kim Tsuyuki, SPJ Communications Specialist, ktsuyuki@hq.spj.org

INDIANAPOLIS – As the Society of Professional Journalists celebrates Ethics Week, it is proud to announce updates to online documents that explain and apply the SPJ Code of Ethics.

The Professional Standards and Ethics Committee’s work highlights the Code’s relevance in an ever-changing media landscape, said Chris Roberts, the committee’s vice chairman and leader of the effort.

“The updated links show that the Code matters, regardless of the old or emerging technologies that journalists use to gather and distribute information,” said Roberts, an associate professor in Department of Journalism and Creative Media at the University of Alabama. “Whether you’re using AI or a manual typewriter, the Code still offers insight into journalism’s highest ideals and minimum standards.”

The new links can be seen at https://www.spj.org/ethicscode.asp, and then clicking on a bullet point in the Code. The links are not part of the actual Code, but they serve as supporting information that will be continuously updated to reflect the Code’s relevance.

The SPJ Code of Ethics established interactive links under former SPJ Ethics Committee Chair Andrew Seaman, after SPJ members voted to revise the Code in 2014.

Roberts started the effort to update links as a class assignment for his graduate students at the University of Alabama. Committee members used the student work as a starting point for updating links to more current and insightful links. Committee chairman Fred Brown, who was on the committee that revised the code in 1996 and 2014, played a large role in updating links.

“The final result keeps a promise that the 2013-14 Code Revision Committee, which Chris and I were members of, made to keep the code itself broad in scope and abiding in principles, with links serving as the mechanism for relevance,” Committee Chair Brown said. “Journalism has changed since 1926, when the then-17-year-old Sigma Delta Chi fraternity adopted its first Code of Ethics. But the flexibility of the links allows us to keep abreast of the complications and constantly changing technology. And Chris Roberts, with his dedication and attention to detail, is the one most responsible for that.”

Among new additions is discussion of artificial intelligence and the uncertain future it has in the industry, as the Professional Standards and Ethics Committee has been faced with multiple questions through the SPJ Ethics Hotline. The updated links discuss how to use AI ethically in the context of the Code, and recent examples of AI use in journalism. Several AI-focused links can be found under the part of the Code that says journalists “take responsibility for the accuracy of their work. Verify information before releasing it. Use original sources whenever possible. “

“SPJ's Code of Ethics is a guiding principle that every journalist and editor should strive to adhere to, and it has been a guiding light throughout my career. With trust in journalism at historic lows, the need for fair, truthful, compassionate, independent and transparent journalism is absolutely critical,” said Danielle McLean, committee member.

"In a time of rampant propaganda, misinformation and misunderstandings, journalism that is dedicated to the principles of the SPJ Code of Ethics is more necessary than ever. Being respectful and fair, accurate and accountable, independent and dogged in pursuing the truth is at the core of what reporters do every day,” said Dylan Smith, committee member and editor and publisher of the Tucson Sentinel.

“Respecting the principles enshrined in the SPJ's Code of Ethics is the key to producing reliable and trustworthy journalism at a time when generative AI has created even more doubts about the authenticity of news content that people consume online,” said Eric Wishart, committee member and Agence France-Presse Standards and Ethics Editor.

“Ethics and standards are vital as technology blurs the line between reality and fiction. The SPJ code is a professional journalist’s North Star. It is also a tool for audiences as they judge what content deserves their valuable attention,” said Mitch Blacher, committee member and investigative reporter at WJLA-TV in Washington D.C.

The SPJ Code of Ethics, available in nine languages, is a statement of abiding principles supported by additional explanations and position papers that address changing journalistic practices. It is not a set of rules, but rather a guide that encourages all who engage in journalism to take responsibility for the information they provide, regardless of medium. The Code should be read as a whole; individual principles should not be taken out of context. It is not, nor can it be under the First Amendment, legally enforceable.

Sigma Delta Chi's first Code of Ethics was borrowed from the American Society of Newspaper Editors in 1926. In 1973, Sigma Delta Chi wrote its own code, which was revised in 1984, 1987, 1996 and 2014.

It is considered to be the gold standard of journalism ethics and is taught in classrooms and posted in newsrooms worldwide.

Downloadable Code of Ethics flyers, posters and bookmarks are available on the SPJ website. Free Code of Ethics bookmarks or posters for your class or newsroom are also available by request,

SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to informing citizens; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and fights to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member, give to the Legal Defense Fund or give to the SPJ Foundation.

-END-

The Society of Professional Journalists hires Caroline Hendrie as executive director

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

CONTACT:
Ashanti Blaize-Hopkins, SPJ National President, ashanti.blaize@gmail.com
Kim Tsuyuki, SPJ Communications Specialist, ktsuyuki@hq.spj.org

INDIANAPOLIS — The Society of Professional Journalists, the nation’s most broad-based journalism organization, has named Caroline Hendrie as its new executive director.

“To say SPJ is fortunate to have landed an impactful industry leader and veteran journalist in Caroline Hendrie is a gross understatement,” said SPJ National President Ashanti Blaize-Hopkins. “Through an extensive search with several top-tier candidates, Caroline emerged as the clear front runner and the executive director SPJ needs at a time when our organization is critical to an industry at a crossroads. She has a track record of success in fundraising, membership growth, and coalition building well-suited to serving both SPJ and the journalism industry as a whole.”

Hendrie will serve as executive director of SPJ and its nonprofit educational arm, the SPJ Foundation. Hendrie most recently worked as an independent journalist and consultant to produce editorial projects as contractor for national philanthropies and publications.

“At this challenging moment for our field, I hope to inspire SPJ members and staff to build on their many strengths. I plan to listen to the community and work to make a compelling case for supporting SPJ,” said Hendrie. “Ultimately, I aim to help ensure that SPJ finds a sustainable way to thrive while staying true to its vital mission.”

Before she was self-employed, Hendrie served as the executive director of the Education Writers Association for 12 years. She joined EWA during a time where the media landscape looked grim and the association was struggling to stay afloat. By the time she left, the association had tripled its budget, instituted an array of new programs to meet members’ needs, doubled the number of paid staff and tripled journalist attendance at its annual conference.

Hendrie also has an extensive journalism background. She worked at Education Week, a national news outlet covering K-12 education, for 14 years. She held a succession of roles from staff writer to managing editor. She also held roles at The Record, the U.S. House of Representatives, Journal Inquirer, Hartford Advocate and Bridgeport Post Telegram.

Hendrie earned a certificate of completion in Executive Education Program on Leadership Decision Making: Optimizing Organizational Performance from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government and Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature from Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut.

Hendrie lives near Washington, D.C., with her family, including a new puppy who keeps everyone on their toes. She succeeds Jennifer Royer, who has been interim executive director since September 2022, and is expected to join the SPJ headquarters staff remotely on May 1.

SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to informing citizens; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and fights to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member, give to the Legal Defense Fund or give to the SPJ Foundation.

-END-

Region 4 Mark of Excellence Awards 2023 winners announced

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

CONTACT:
Lou Harry, SPJ Manager of Publications and Awards, lharry@spj.org
Kimberly Tsuyuki, SPJ Communications Specialist, ktsuyuki@hq.spj.org

INDIANAPOLIS — The Society of Professional Journalists recognizes the best collegiate journalism in Region 4 with 2023 Mark of Excellence Awards winners.

SPJ’s Region 4 comprises Michigan, Ohio, Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia. First-place winners will compete at the national level among other MOE winners from the 12 SPJ regions.

National winners will be notified in the late spring.

MOE Awards entries are judged by professionals with at least three years of journalism experience. Judges were directed to choose entries they felt were among the best in student journalism. If no entry rose to the level of excellence, no award was given. Any category not listed has no winner.

School divisions are based on student enrollment, including both graduate and undergraduate: Large schools have at least 10,000 students and small schools have 9,999 or fewer students.

The list below details all Region 4 winners. If you have any questions regarding the MOE Awards, contact SPJ Manager of Publications and Awards Lou Harry by email.

This list reflects the spelling and titles submitted in the award entries.

Print/Online

Breaking News Reporting (Large)
Winner: OPD use of force investigation — by Sean Scott, Alice Momany, The Miami Student, Miami University

Breaking News Reporting (Small)
Winner: Federal work study program to end between March 19 and April 1 — by Erin Yudt, The Globe, Point Park University

General News Reporting (Large)
Winner: In East Palestine, life inches towards normal — by Morgan Schneider, Oxford Stories on Medium, Miami University
Finalist: Working nine-to-life — by Brody Serravalli, The Lantern, The Ohio State University
Finalist: Examining Miami's drinking culture — by Evan Stefanik, The Miami Student, Miami University

General News Reporting (Small)
Winner: Crossroad ministries bring hope to residents of Xenia nursing home — by Avonlea Brown, Cedars, Cedarville University
Finalist: Firearm found in Dolan Hall before Thanksgiving break, investigation under way — by Laken Kincaid, The Carroll News, John Carroll University

In-Depth Reporting (Large)
Winner: The cost of convenience — by Ryan Maxin, The Post, Ohio University
Finalist: ‘This is absolutely heartbreaking’: Miami considers eliminating majors in the humanities — by Kasey Turman, Taylor Stumbaugh, The Miami Student, Miami University
Finalist: Path to the Oval Office: is Carter qualified? — by Phoebe Helms, Josie Stewart, The Lantern, The Ohio State University

In-Depth Reporting (Small)
Winner: Interim president Chris Brussalis appointed ninth university president — by Jake Dabkowski, Erin Yudt, The Globe, Point Park University
Finalist: Life on the Great Lakes — by Heidie Senseman, Cedars, Cedarville University
Finalist: Thrifting a way of life — by Maggie Fipps, Chloe Smith, Cedars, Cedarville University

Feature Writing (Large)
Winner: Miami ... merged — by Lily Wahl, Taylor Stumbaugh, The Miami Student, Miami University
Finalist: Airy v. Ohio U: How mental health crises are dealt with at Ohio U — by Madeline Harden, The New Political, Ohio University
Finalist: Love birds, peony fields and chocolate hearts: Two professors’ marriage story — by Ryann Beaschler, The Miami Student, Miami University

Feature Writing (Small)
Winner: One and only RandyLand — by Mackenzie Phillips, Off the Bluff Magazine, Duquesne University
Finalist: Christians confront the possibilities and impossibilities of AI — by Alan Brads, Cedars, Cedarville University
Finalist: Trundle Manor's 'Addams Family' — by Megan Trotter, Off the Bluff, Duquesne University

Sports Writing (Large)
Winner: Ryland Zaborowski doesn’t let autism stop him from crushing baseballs — by Jack Schmelzinger, The Miami Student, Miami University
Finalist: Jonathan Smith preparing to build a new life, culture with Michigan State football — by Colby Schikora, Spartan Sports Report, Michigan State University
Finalist: Women's Basketball: Ticket office registers highest numbers in six years — by Jayla Vanhorn, The Lantern, The Ohio State University

Sports Writing (Small)
Winner: Born to Win: Addy Miller looks to continue impressive coaching career at Cedarville — by Julia Swain, Cedars, Cedarville University
Finalist: Freshman point guard Ethan Sellars finds fulfillment off the basketball court — by Alan Brads, Cedars, Cedarville University
Finalist: Ethan Cunningham tumbles his way onto Cedarville cheer — by Maggie Fipps, Cedars, Cedarville University

Editorial/Opinion Writing
Winner: Let's talk about methane — by Ava Kalina, The Miami Student, Miami University
Finalist: Columns — by Isabella Zinchini, The News Record, University of Cincinnati
Finalist: Commentary — by Virginia Doherty, KentWired.com/The Kent Stater, Kent State University

General Column Writing
Winner: Metal Mondays — by Jackson McCoy, The Post, Ohio University

Sports Column Writing
Winner: SportsMonday Columns — by Nicholas Stoll, Paul Nasr, Connor Earegood, The Michigan Daily, University of Michigan

Corbin Gwaltney Award for Best All-Around Student Newspaper (Large)
Winner: The Miami Student — by Staff, The Miami Student, Miami University
Finalist: The Michigan Daily — by Staff, The Michigan Daily, University of Michigan
Finalist: The Post — by Staff, The Post, Ohio University

Corbin Gwaltney Award for Best All-Around Student Newspaper (Small)
Winner: The Exponent — by The Exponent, The Exponent, Baldwin Wallace University

Best Ongoing Student Magazine
Winner: The Burr — by Staff, The Burr, Kent State University
Finalist: Rhythm — by Staff, UP Magazine, Miami University
Finalist: Thread Magazine — by Staff, Thread Magazine, Ohio University

Best Affiliated Web Site
Winner: The Post — by Staff, The Post, Ohio University
Finalist: newsrecord.org — by Staff, The News Record, University of Cincinnati
Finalist: The Miami Student website — by Staff, The Miami Student, Miami University

Best Independent Online Student Publication
Winner: The Michigan Daily — by Staff, The Michigan Daily, University of Michigan

Art/Graphics/Multimedia

Breaking News Photography
Winner: UC students hold protest in support of Palestine — by Frank Bowen, Skylinn Jenkins, The News Record, University of Cincinnati
Finalist: Notorious party bus 'Cabbie D' struck on E 116th Street and Shaker Boulevard — by Nick Sack, The Carroll News, John Carroll University

General News Photography
Winner: Hundreds of UMich students walk out for Palestine — by Jeremy Weine, The Michigan Daily, University of Michigan

Photo Essay/Slideshow
Winner: Walter E Havighurst special collections — by Sarah Frosch, The Miami Student, Miami University
Finalist: Spiritual awakening — by Logan Howard, Cedars, Cedarville University
Finalist: The Driver Era and Almost Monday concert — by Zoe Cranfill, The Post, Ohio University

Illustration
Winner: The latest buzz: UMich designated bee-friendly campus — by Abby Schreck, The Michigan Daily, University of Michigan

Sports Photography
Winner: Talawanda Track & Field sprints toward SWOC tournament — by Pearl Zajbel, Oxford Observer, Miami University
Finalist: Miami brings home Victory Bell for the first time since 2005 — by Jessica Monahan, The Miami Student, Miami University

Best Use of Multimedia
Winner: Big, blank walls': Oxford’s hidden vibrance — by Ryann Beaschler, Medium.com, Miami University
Finalist: The Black hair series — by Udoka Nwansi, Karis Clark, Akash Dewan, Eric Lau, The Michigan Daily, University of Michigan
Finalist: The complexities and costs of an insured life — by Jessica Opfer, Medium.com, Miami University

News Videography
Winner: Elliv: Illuminate was a Hit!! — by Ian Chan, Cedars, Cedarville University
Finalist: A fun-filled card game encourages spiritual growth in its players — by JosephineSchmidt-Krayer, Cedars, Cedarville University
Finalist: K9s at the Ville presents: Valentine’s Puppy Party — by Julia Mumford, Cedars, Cedarville University

Feature Videography
Winner: Serving others: The Cedarville fire department in action — by Josephine Schmidt-Krayer, Cedars, Cedarville University

Data Visualization
Winner: Maps: See how Butler County turned out for Issues 1 and 2 — by Sean Scott, Luke Macy, The Miami Student, Miami University
Finalist: UMich class of 2027 by the numbers: Diets, dorms and data — by Irena Li, Joey Lin, The Michigan Daily, University of Michigan

Audio

Radio News Reporting
Winner: Some parts of Rural Ohio lack maternal care. Can midwives help? — by Jenna Bal, Ideastream Public Media, Kent State University
Finalist: Solidarity rally — by John Boggess, WMUL-FM, Marshall University

Radio Feature
Winner: Pumpkin house — by Luke Hamilton, WMUL-FM, Marshall University
Finalist: Heights Now: Meet the man who 'makes them pay' — by Laken Kincaid, Nick Sack, Evan Richwalsky, WJCU, John Carroll University
Finalist: Outside looking in — by Nate Harrah, WMUL-FM, Marshall University

Radio In-Depth Reporting
Winner: In the aftermath of the East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment — by Grace Springer, Sophia Lucente, Collaborative News Lab, Kent State University
Finalist: Abby Herring first female runner to qualify for Nationals — by Ben Anderson, WMUL-FM, Marshall University

Radio Sports Reporting
Winner: End of season for the Herd and other reports — by John Boggess, WMUL, Marshall University

Best All-Around Radio Newscast
Winner: Newscenter 88 — by Staff, WMUL, Marshall University

Podcast (Conversational)
Winner: What happens on court stays on court — by Hannah Campbell, Tate Raub, The Post, Ohio University
Finalist: People and Policies — by Raquel Hirsch, Olivia Patel, The Miami Student, Miami University

Broadcast

Television Breaking News Reporting
Winner: Campus Carry bill just passed — by Aaron Dickens, WVU News, West Virginia University

Television General News Reporting
Winner: WVU News - Cutting the cost of diabetes drugs — by Lara Bonatesta, WVU News, West Virginia University
Finalist: Vaping in the Mountain State — by Kaeli Ricottilli, WVU News, West Virginia University
Finalist: Candlelight vigil — by Mackenize Dekker, Focal Point News, Michigan State University

Television Feature Reporting
Winner: Athens farmer defies stereotypes — by Morgan Anderson, WOUB Public Media, Ohio University
Finalist: Forest of decisions — by Ethan Hunter, Focal Point News, Michigan State University
Finalist: Ramadan in our community — by Kaeli Ricottilli, WVU News, West Virginia University

Television In-Depth Reporting
Winner: Akron nonprofit turns Metro bus into ‘Carvan of Love’ — by Alexandra Manthey, KentWired.com/TV2, Kent State University
Finalist: Drug court program — by Lara Bonatesta, WVU News, West Virginia University

Television Sports Reporting
Winner: Mountaineer Playbook: Bridge Day — by Elizabeth Carey, Mountaineer Playbook, West Virginia University
Finalist: Mountaineer Playbook: Esports — by Riley McIlmoyle, Mountaineer Playbook, West Virginia University
Finalist: Take Me Home Country Roads — by Sean Lowdermilk, WVU News, West Virginia University

Best All-Around Television Newscast
Winner: TV2 News for Dec. 7, 2023 — by Staff, KentWired.com/TV2, Kent State University

Best All-Around Television News Magazine
Winner: WVU News — by Staff, WVU News, West Virginia University

All Platform

Campus Reporting
Winner: Cultural diversity in Miami performing groups and other columns — by Sean Scott, The Miami Student, Miami University
Finalist: Miami University: The kingdom of air purifiers? — by Anastasija Mladenovska, The Miami Student, Miami University

Cultural Criticism
Winner: Literary reviews — by Lily Wahl, The Miami Student, Miami University
Finalist: Film Reviews — by Luke Macy, The Miami Student, Miami University
Finalist: Critiques on film and television — by Stella Powers, The Miami Student, Miami University

Food/Restaurant Journalism
Winner: We can't cook — by Sean Scott, Devin Ankeney, The Miami Student, Miami University

Regional Political Reporting
Winner: How will SB83 impact DEI initiatives at John Carroll University? — by Laken Kincaid, The Carroll News, John Carroll University

Science/Environment/Climate Reporting
Winner: Saving balloons worth of money with helium reclamation — by Austin Smith, The Miami Student, Miami University
Finalist: ‘Pretty pest’: The invasive species taking over the Midwest — by Alton Northup, The Kent Stater/KentWired, Kent State University
Finalist: Local voices spread secondhand love — by Sarah Kennel, The Miami Student, Miami University

SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to informing citizens; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and fights to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member, give to the Legal Defense Fund or give to the SPJ Foundation.

-END-

Region 5 Mark of Excellence Awards 2023 winners announced

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

CONTACT:
Lou Harry, SPJ Manager of Publications and Awards, lharry@spj.org
Kimberly Tsuyuki, SPJ Communications Coordinator, ktsuyuki@hq.spj.org

INDIANAPOLIS — The Society of Professional Journalists recognizes the best collegiate journalism in Region 5 with 2023 Mark of Excellence Awards winners.

SPJ’s Region 5 comprises Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky. First-place winners will compete at the national level among other MOE winners from the 12 SPJ regions.

National winners will be notified in the late spring.

MOE Awards entries are judged by professionals with at least three years of journalism experience. Judges were directed to choose entries they felt were among the best in student journalism. If no entry rose to the level of excellence, no award was given. Any category not listed has no winner.

School divisions are based on student enrollment, including both graduate and undergraduate: Large schools have at least 10,000 students and small schools have 9,999 or fewer students.

The list below details all Region 5 winners. If you have any questions regarding the MOE Awards, contact SPJ Manager of Publications and Awards Lou Harry by email.

This list reflects the spelling and titles submitted in the award entries.

Print/Online

Breaking News Reporting (Large)
Winner: IU denied its room reservation. The Palestine Solidarity Committee hosted its event anyway — by Salome Cloteaux, Marissa Meador, Indiana Daily Student, Indiana University
Finalist: Daily Northwestern football hazing investigation — by Nicole Markus, Alyce Brown, Cole Reynolds, Divya Bhardwaj, The Daily Northwestern, Northwestern University
Finalist: Northwestern Prison Education Program celebrates inaugural commencement — by Nora Collins, The Daily Northwestern, Northwestern University

Breaking News Reporting (Small)
Winner: Indiana Supreme Court rejects lawsuit, allowing abortion ban to go into effect — by Jack Sells, TheStatehouseFile.com, Franklin College
Finalist: No 'neighs' for bill outlining rights of those using service dogs and horses — by Ashlyn Myers, TheStatehouseFile.com, Franklin College

General News Reporting (Large)
Winner: ‘The church's answer was hurting them’ — by Marissa Meador, Indiana Daily Student, Indiana University

General News Reporting (Small)
Winner: One of the worst nights of my life' — by Gabi Morando, The Butler Collegian, Butler University
Finalist: SAIC ends its only journalism department — by Ankit Khadgi, John W.Bateman, F Newsmagazine, School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Finalist: My life has been about doors opening: A conversation with Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch — by Staff, TheStatehouseFile.com, Franklin College

In-Depth Reporting (Large)
Winner: Pharmacists think it's illegal to dispense abortion pills: Worrying Consequences — by Hannah Zhihan Jiang, Health-e News, Northwestern University
Finalist: As kids, they underwent a common test for UTIs. As adults, it haunts them as a traumatic ‘nightmare’ — by Max Bennett, STAT News, Northwestern University

In-Depth Reporting (Small)
Winner: In Marion and Johnson counties, different approaches to the common problem of public transit — by Isaac Gleitz, TheStatehouseFile.com, Franklin College

Feature Writing (Large)
Winner: The brain behind the 'zom-com' — by Jenna Anderson, North By Northwestern, Northwestern University
Finalist: The fitness journey — by Jimmy He, North by Northwestern, Northwestern University

Feature Writing (Small)
Winner: An audition for sympathy — by Marium Asif, F Newsmagazine, School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Sports Writing (Large)
Winner: The hottest ticket in Atlanta: A look at Georgia Tech volleyball’s home court — by Charlotte Varnes, Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Northwestern University
Finalist: Northwestern cheerleaders allege unsafe conditions, unfair expectations — by Charlotte Varnes, The Daily Northwestern, Northwestern University
Finalist: The first season — by Marissa Meador, Indiana Daily Student, Indiana University

Sports Writing (Small)
Winner: When I play soccer, I feel 100% completely Talia — by Caleb Denorme, The Butler Collegian, Butler University
Finalist: UIndy alumna becomes Lacrosse coach — by Michael Harrington, The Reflector, University of Indianapolis

Editorial/Opinion Writing
Winner: Goodbye, goose; Your ‘freedom’ at the cost of ours; GBF: Gross, bigoted and false — by Aidan Gregg, The Butler Collegian, Butler University
Finalist: Opinion columns — by Jess Wilson, easternprogress.com, Eastern Kentucky University
Finalist: Opinion columns — by Sadia Khatri, The Butler Collegian, Butler University

General Column Writing
Winner: Columns — by Ethan Wallace, Kentucky Kernel, University of Kentucky

Sports Column Writing
Winner: Columns — by Ethan Segall, Inside NU, Northwestern University

Corbin Gwaltney Award for Best All-Around Student Newspaper (Large)
Winner: Indiana Daily Student — by Staff, Indiana Daily Student, Indiana University
Finalist: Kentucky Kernel — by Staff, Kentucky Kernel, University of Kentucky

Corbin Gwaltney Award for Best All-Around Student Newspaper (Small)
Winner: F Newsmagazine — by Staff, F Newsmagazine, School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Best Ongoing Student Magazine
Winner: F Newsmagazine — by Staff, F Newsmagazine, School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Finalist: KRNL Lifestyle + Fashion — by Staff, KRNL Lifestyle + Fashion, University of Kentucky
Finalist: NBN Magazine — by Staff, North By Northwestern, Northwestern University

Best Affiliated Web Site
Winner: kykernel.com — by Staff, Kentucky Kernel, University of Kentucky
Finalist: Indiana Daily Student — by Staff, Indiana Daily Student, Indiana University
Finalist: The Reflector Online — by Staff, The Reflector, University of Indianapolis

Best Independent Online Student Publication
Winner: 14 East — by Staff, 14 East, DePaul University

Art/Graphics/Multimedia

Breaking News Photography
Winner: Kid LAROl greets fans — by Jack Weaver, Kentucky Kernel, University of Kentucky

General News Photography
Winner: Graduate fist up — by Rosemary Kelley, easternprogress.com, Eastern Kentucky University

Feature Photography
Winner: K-Week celebration — by Abbey Cutrer, Kentucky Kernel, University of Kentucky

Photo Essay/Slideshow
Winner: Getting to know Ald. Krissie Harris — by Ethan Lachman, The Daily Northwestern, Northwestern University

Illustration
Winner: ‘We are suffering too much’: Maintenance technicians report overwork, retaliation from Northwestern — by Lily Ogburn, The Daily Northwestern, Northwestern University
Finalist: Accommodations as creativity and advocacy — by Ketaki Kulkarni, F Newsmagazine, School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Sports Photography
Winner: Men’s Soccer — by Abbey Cutrer, Kentucky Kernel, University of Kentucky
Finalist: Northwestern’s dance comes to a close after losing 68-63 to UCLA — by Angeli Mittal, The Daily Northwestern, Northwestern University
Best Use of Multimedia
Winner: The Game of Voting, TSF edition — by Sydney Byerly, TheStatehouseFile.com, Franklin College

News Videography
Winner: Crowded waters: Invasive European frog-bit threatens Green Bay wildlife — by Seeger Gray, Green Bay Press-Gazette, Northwestern University
Finalist: More than 100,000 march in Washington in support of Palestinians in Gaza — by Angela Zhang, Medill News Service, Northwestern University

Feature Videography
Winner: The Chicago Minute: The team putting Chicago’s messages up in lights — by Anna Retzlaff, Emily Soto, Kiernan Sullivan, 14 East, DePaul University
Finalist: Julia Marshall, Northwestern first-year figure skater, carves up success on ice — by Alicia Tang, The Daily Northwestern or DailyNUVideo, Northwestern University
Finalist: Rep. Deluzio discusses threats to American democracy in exclusive interview — by Julian Andreone, Medill News Service, Northwestern University

Audio

Radio News Reporting
Winner: Champaign Police investigate ‘agency culture’ of not following domestic violence reporting laws — by Farrah Anderson, Christine Herman, Diane Leane, Illinois Public Media, Northwestern University
Finalist: CTA marks 10 years of Ventra with ‘L’ station celebration — by Brandon Kondritz, WNUR News, Northwestern University
Finalist: A look at Northwestern’s Graduate Student Union — by Sophia Casa, Grace Jordan-Weinstein, WNUR News, Northwestern University

Radio Feature
Winner: The day I ditched my devices — by Brandon Kondritz, WNUR News, Northwestern University
Finalist: Dream on: Northwestern men's basketball and the road to March Madness — by Allison Rauch, WNUR News, Northwestern University
Finalist: The loss of the Lower Hill — by Lance Wilhelm, SLB Radio Productions, Northwestern University

Podcast (Narrative)
Winner: For whom does the bell toll? — by Mika Ellison, WNUR News, Northwestern University

Podcast (Conversational)
Winner: We are not defined by our legislators — by Lily Shen, Flyover, Northwestern University

Broadcast

Television Breaking News Reporting
Winner: Northwestern University graduate workers rally — by Jeremy Fredricks, Lance Wilhelm, Northwestern News Network, Northwestern University
Finalist: Thousands rally for Israel on the National Mall — by Luis Castaneda, WEAU 13 News, Northwestern University

Television General News Reporting
Winner: Israelis protest judicial reforms, Palestinians weigh their stake — by Diego Ramos Bechara, Northwestern News Network, Northwestern University
Finalist: Locals support allowing undocumented workers to get driver's licenses — by Isabela Lisco, WJFW Newswatch 12, Northwestern University
Finalist: Plan to rebuild Ryan Field moves forward despite pushback from residents — by Logan Schiciano, Northwestern News Network, Northwestern University

Television Feature Reporting
Winner: From Guam to Capitol Hill: A congressman settles in — by Logan Schiciano, Medill News Service, Northwestern University

Television In-Depth Reporting
Winner: A Border and 10 years apart: Mixed-status families call for immigration reform — by Angela Zhang, Medill News Service, Northwestern University

Television Sports Reporting
Winner: DePaul men's basketball — by Caleb Nixon, Good Day DePaul, DePaul University
Finalist: Horry County gymnastics coach placed on restriction — by Gabrielle Khoriaty, WMBF News, Northwestern University

Best All-Around Television Newscast
Winner: IU NewsNet — by Staff, IU NewsNet, Indiana University
Finalist: Good Day DePaul — by Staff, Good Day DePaul, DePaul University
Finalist: Special Report: Evanston Clark Street beach shooting — by Staff, Northwestern News Network, Northwestern University

All Platform

Arts/Entertainment/Fashion Journalism
Winner: Emily Ridings weaves her own story — by Rana Alsoufi, KRNL Lifestyle + Fashion, University of Kentucky
Finalist: The Hollywood Strike Explained! — by Diego Ramos Bechara, NBC Nightly News: Kids Edition, Northwestern University
Finalist: Chelsey Carter-Sanders: A sustainable fashion force — by Elizabeth Gregerson, 14 East, DePaul University

Campus Reporting
Winner: Who is Guardian Security? DePaul's contract security with a controversial history — by Alexandra Murphy, Juliana Pelaez, Kate Linderman, Lauren Sheperd, 14 East, DePaul University

Cultural Criticism
Winner: Columns — by Gray Greenwell, Kentucky Kernel, University of Kentucky
Finalist: Riot Grrrl isn't dead, it's reincarnated: A study in feminine rage — by Kelly Rappaport, North By Northwestern, Northwestern University

Investigative Reporting
Winner: Too far for too long' — by Alison Miccolis, Sarah Hohman, The Butler Collegian, Butler University

Regional Political Reporting
Winner: Gender-affirming healthcare policy in Indiana — by Bee Pilarz, The Butler Collegian, Butler University

Retail/Small Business Journalism
Winner: Local artisan gift shop brings Mexico to Chicago — by Raena Bents, 14 East, DePaul University

Science/Environment/Climate Reporting
Winner: A deep dive Into Chicago's climate inequality — by Gia Clarke, 14 East, DePaul University

SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to informing citizens; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and fights to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member, give to the Legal Defense Fund or give to the SPJ Foundation.

-END-

Region 6 Mark of Excellence Awards 2023 winners announced

Tue, 9 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

-END-

SPJ condemns The Colorado Republican Party for expelling journalist Sandra Fish from state assembly

Tue, 9 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

CONTACT
Ashanti Blaize-Hopkins, SPJ National President, ashanti.blaize@gmail.com
Kim Tsuyuki, SPJ Communications Specialist, ktsuyuki@hq.spj.org

INDIANAPOLIS — The Society of Professional Journalists strongly condemns the removal of Colorado Sun reporter Sandra Fish from the Colorado State Republican Assembly, a blatant affront to press freedom. SPJ joins the SPJ Colorado pro chapter in support of Fish, a longtime reporter who has covered state politics since 1982.

“These actions taken by government officials are outrageous and a total affront to the First Amendment,” said SPJ National President Ashanti Blaize-Hopkins. “Politicians don’t get to decide who covers them and doing so sets a dangerous precedent and threat to press freedom. Sandra Fish had every right to cover the GOP assembly.”

SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to informing citizens; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and fights to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member, give to the Legal Defense Fund or give to the SPJ Foundation.

-END-

North Carolina General Assembly recipient of Black Hole Award

Sat, 16 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0500

CONTACT:
Jodi Rave Spotted Bear, SPJ Freedom of Information Committee Chair, jodispottedbear@gmail.com
Kim Tsuyuki, SPJ Communications Specialist, ktsuyuki@hq.spj.org

INDIANAPOLIS – The Society of Professional Journalists is giving its annual Black Hole Award to the North Carolina General Assembly for violating the public’s right to know in the change of the state’s public records law.

The Black Hole Award is bestowed annually upon government institutions or agencies for acts of outright contempt of the public’s right to know. The recipient is announced during Sunshine Week each year.

“The North Carolina law worsens a national patchwork of threats to state government transparency,” said SPJ Freedom of Information Committee member Howard Goldberg, a retired Associated Press bureau chief who noted that the news agency for years has been denied public records access to some state lawmakers’ office calendars and correspondence. “Legislatures in effect are exempting themselves from accountability to citizens who want to know how their laws are made and who is influencing their lawmakers,” said Goldberg.

In fall 2023, North Carolina’s General Assembly passed its state budget that included a new law that exempts state lawmakers from the state’s public records law. This means it is entirely up to North Carolina lawmakers to decide what public records, if any, to reveal. The governor and other members of the Council of State, elected by voters statewide, are still subject to public records law.

The budget also repealed the law requiring redistricting draft maps and communications to be made publicly available. Previously, communications created during the legislative redistricting process became public once the new maps became law.

"The core spirit of Sunshine Week is to uphold the most important principle of democracy, that the people are always in charge of their government,” said Sterling Cosper, SPJ Freedom of Information Committee Co-chair. “This oversight does not just begin and end with elections but rather should happen all day every day. Citizens are the bosses and it is not becoming of their elected employees to dictate to them without consultation what information they have a right to when it comes to their money and vote. The assembly netted a hattrick of unethical and shadowy governance by introducing a measure to hide their day-to-day decisions with taxpayer dollars, and the process for redrawing the election map that affects their party’s job security as well as the citizens’ right to choose all within the annual budget, essentially holding it hostage for these provisions and disallowing the government to continue properly providing services,” said Cosper.

Opposition to this legislative change comes from both Democrats and Republicans. The John Locke Foundation has urged lawmakers to overturn it in an open letter. Attorney General Josh Stein, the Democratic nominee for North Carolina Governor, told The News & Observer, “I think the records belong to the people, and that people have a right to them. And the legislature is saying that rule applies to all of state government, ‘save us, we are somehow different.’”

“North Carolina lawmakers set another dangerous precedent by shirking their moral and constitutional duties as public employees to inform their constituents what they are doing with taxpayer time and money while on the clock,” said Tim Gruver, SPJ Freedom of Information Committee member.

The 2024 legislative short session begins next month; no Republican lawmaker has called for a change in the records law.

“Lawmakers give new meaning to North Carolina’s First in Flight slogan,” said Jodi Rave Spotted Bear, SPJ Freedom of Information Committee Chair. “They changed public records laws to avoid having to comply with them. State leaders now soar in the spirit of the Black Hole Award, an egregious recognition earned by trampling on the public right to information.”

SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to informing citizens; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and fights to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member, give to the Legal Defense Fund or give to the SPJ Foundation.

-END-

The missing and murdered Indigenous person crisis calls for Indigenous data sovereignty

Sat, 16 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0500

CONTACT:
Jodi Rave Spotted Bear, SPJ Freedom of Information Committee Chair, jodispottedbear@gmail.com
Kim Tsuyuki, SPJ Communications Specialist, ktsuyuki@hq.spj.org

INDIANAPOLIS – This column is written by Jodi Rave Spotted Bear (Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation), who is the Society of Professional Journalists Freedom of Information Committee chair. She also serves on the SPJ Foundation Board and SPJ First Amendment Forever Fund Committee. She’s the founder and executive director of the Indigenous Media Freedom Alliance and publisher of Buffalo’s Fire.
-------------------------------------------------
A national commission is calling on the federal government to declare a “Decade of Action and Healing” regarding the public safety crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous peoples. The commission issued a report listing its many findings, including problems of reporting and collecting data. The U.S. Interior and Justice departments issued a joint response in early March.

“No one should have to experience the loss of a loved one -- let alone losses across generations -- due to the lack of resources, jurisdictional complexities or unnecessary bureaucracy,” wrote Interior Secretary Deb Haaland (Laguna Pueblo) and U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland in a joint statement released in a 231-page report on March 5.

To acknowledge the high rate of missing and murdered Indigenous persons, the two federal agencies responded to recommendations of the Not Invisible Act Commission, or NIAC. In its 212-page Not One More report released Nov. 1, 2023, the commission pointed to the federal government’s historic failure to uphold trust responsibilities to Native people.

The report includes seven chapters of findings and recommendations. Chapter 2 addresses reporting and collecting data on missing, murdered and trafficked persons including 16 findings related to data collection.

“Accurate data on Native Americans are necessary for federal, state, local, and Tribal governments to monitor conditions and make informed policy and spending decisions. Unfortunately, there is a lack of available data at all levels of government but especially at the national level to ascertain the extent of the problem,” wrote subcommittee members.

The NIAC and Indian Law and Order Commission recommended the federal government generate accurate crime reports for Indian Country.

The Justice and Interior departments responded that DOJ “has been making steady improvements in crime reporting since the Indian Law and Order Commission released its recommendations. Since 2016, when the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting, UUCR, Program began its transition to the National Incident-Based Reporting System, NIBRS, only reporting, the FBI has collaborated with the Bureau of Indian Affairs to encourage and assist Tribal agencies to report NIBRS data.”

Overall, the Not Invisible Act subcommittee issued 14 data-related recommendations to the Interior and Justice departments, ranging from the federal government’s need to generate accurate crime reports for Indian Country and completing an audit of systems and sources that collect data on missing American Indian/Alaska Native persons.

Not Invisible Act commissioners wrote: “There is a crisis in tribal communities. A crisis of violence, a crisis of abuse, and a crisis of abject neglect affecting Indian women and men, Indian children, and Indian elders. The federal government must act now; not tomorrow; not next week; not next month; and not next year. Once and for all, the federal government must end its systematic failure to address this crisis and react, redress, and resolve this. We call on the federal government to declare a ‘Decade of Action and Healing’ to address the crisis of missing, murdered and trafficked Indian people.”

The report confirms one of the biggest roadblocks experienced by journalists reporting on missing and murdered Indigenous people – a lack of reliable or accessible data.

The public safety crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous peoples reaches far beyond advocates, federal agencies and myriad law enforcement workers. A survey by the First Nations Development Institute recently listed missing and murdered Indigenous women as the top concern of voters in the 2024 election season.

Despite being the smallest percentage of the population, Indigenous people rank among the second highest number of reported missing and murdered persons, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. At least 11 states with Indigenous communities have launched initiatives concentrated on improving communication, data and resources.

Journalists on the frontlines of reporting on murdered and missing Indigenous persons need a central database to accurately report on this ongoing crisis in Indian Country.

Rebecca Landsberry-Baker (Muscogee Creek Nation), executive director of the Indigenous Journalists Association, underscored the importance of Indigenous data sovereignty – the collection, ownership, and application of data being managed by organizations rooted in community as a best practice for protecting Indigenous people and resources.

“Indigenous journalism by and for Indigenous peoples is a key driver of self-determination and to fully realize that we must ensure that our data and histories are accurately represented within the media landscape. Expanding access to accurate news and information is essential to healthy democracies across tribal, local, state, and national levels, and a centralized database would be a critical reporting resource for all journalists covering the MMIP crisis,” Landsberry-Baker said.

IJA President Christine Trudeau (Prairie Band Potawatomi) added that a centralized and comprehensive MMIP database is long overdue. "This is the monumental breakthrough needed to better cover this ongoing crisis, and we need it now."

The NIAC's report illustrates how the lack of comprehensive, quality data has hidden how severe the missing and murdered Indigenous people’s issue is across Native American communities. Although the Justice Department declares it “has been making steady improvements in crime reporting”, it's clear progress is slow and inadequate.

A central database managed by a neutral party, such as the Indigenous Journalists Association (formerly the Native American Journalists Association), is needed due to the existing lack of standardized reporting protocols across competing legal jurisdictions.

SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to informing citizens; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and fights to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member, give to the Legal Defense Fund or give to the SPJ Foundation.

-END-

SPJ continues to advocate for journalists through its Legal Defense and First Amendment Forever Fund

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0500

CONTACT:
Ashanti Blaize-Hopkins, SPJ National President, ashanti.blaize@gmail.com
Kim Tsuyuki, SPJ Communications Specialist, ktsuyuki@hq.spj.org

INDIANAPOLIS — As the country celebrates Sunshine Week, the Society of Professional Journalists is proud to have committed more than $50,000 over the past year to ensure journalists have the resources they need to continue their vital work without fear of censorship or retaliation.

Through its Legal Defense Fund and First Amendment Forever Fund, SPJ has continued its unwavering commitment to defending the rights of journalists. With a dedication to upholding freedom of speech and the press, SPJ assists journalists facing legal battles for simply doing their jobs; helps fund documentaries aimed at uncovering the truth and educating the public on the role of a free press; and fights for journalists whose equipment and property have been confiscated – just to name a few.

Sunshine Week, observed annually, serves as a poignant reminder of the fundamental principles upon which journalism stands – transparency, accountability and the unyielding pursuit of truth. In an era marked by unprecedented challenges to press freedom, SPJ remains steadfast in its mission to protect the rights of journalists and safeguard the public's right to access information.

"At a time when the free flow of information is under threat, SPJ stands as a beacon of support for journalists everywhere," said Ashanti Blaize-Hopkins, SPJ national president. "Our commitment to defending the First Amendment is unwavering, and during Sunshine Week, we renew our pledge to advocate for the indispensable role of a free press in society."

This year alone, the SPJ Legal Defense Fund has granted $10,000 to assist freelance journalist Tim Burke and over $18,000 out of the $20,000 committed to the Marion County Record to help cover legal fees. The SPJ First Amendment Forever Fund has provided $15,000 toward the development of “SEIZED,” a documentary on the Marion County Record raid.

“The funds provided this year are some of the most impactful LDF grants in recent years,” Blaize-Hopkins said. “It’s part of SPJ’s mission to fight to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. SPJ’s mission is vital, now more than ever.”

SPJ has also signed onto more than 20 amicus briefs and made over 20 statements in support of journalists and journalism organizations facing legal battles in court.

The allocation of funds from SPJ's Legal Defense Fund and First Amendment Forever Fund underscores the organization's proactive stance in confronting the myriad obstacles facing journalists today. From legal challenges to attacks on press freedom, SPJ remains at the forefront of the fight to protect the rights of journalists and ensure that the voices of the Fourth Estate continue to be heard.

As Sunshine Week unfolds, SPJ calls upon individuals and organizations alike to join in the collective effort to preserve and protect freedom of speech and the press. Now, more than ever, it is imperative that we stand united in defense of these fundamental liberties, which serve as the cornerstone of a free and democratic society.

More information on the SPJ LDF and FAFF – and ways to donate to each fund – may be found on the SPJ website.

SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to informing citizens; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and fights to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member, give to the Legal Defense Fund or give to the SPJ Foundation.

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IJA, SPJ FOI and IMFA encourage tribal officials to commit to the 2024 Sunshine Week Open Indigenous Governments Proclamation/Pledge

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0500

CONTACT:
Jodi Rave Spotted Bear, SPJ Freedom of Information Committee Chair and Indigenous Media Freedom Alliance Executive Director, jodi@imfreedomalliance.org
Sterling Cosper, SPJ Freedom of Information Committee Co-Chair and Indigenous Journalists Association Membership Manager, scosper@naja.com
Claire Regan, SPJ Freedom of Information Committee Co-Chair, clairemarieregan@gmail.com
Kim Tsuyuki, SPJ Communications Specialist, ktsuyuki@hq.spj.org

INDIANAPOLIS - In recognition of Sunshine Week, the Society of Professional Journalists Freedom of Information Committee, the Indigenous Journalists Association and the Indigenous Media Freedom Alliance present this pledge to encourage tribal government officials to commit to transparency on behalf of their citizens and outline specific measures to reach this goal.

Sunshine Week is a reminder to take action and identify local, state, federal and tribal open government shortcomings. This year, we are asking citizens to send the proclamation to public officials who are encouraged to pledge and initiate specific improvements in local, state or tribal law and practice.

Section 1
WHEREAS, transparent tribal governments and a robust independent Indigenous press are fundamental to tribal sovereignty by ensuring fair elections, and Indigenous citizens maintaining oversight of their tribal nations and
WHEREAS, true self-determination is not just defined by government-to-government relationships between tribes and colonial governments, but also each individual Indigenous citizens' right to determine the direction of their tribal government with the assistance of and right to open information to inform their determinations; and
WHEREAS, an open and accessible government is vital to establishing and maintaining the people’s trust and confidence in their government and in the government’s ability to serve its citizens effectively; and
WHEREAS, the protection of every person’s right of access to public records and government meetings is a high priority of (name of governmental unit), and
WHEREAS, the (name of governmental unit) is committed to openness and transparency in all aspects of its operations and seeks to set a standard in this regard; and
NOW, THEREFORE, the (name of governmental unit) commits during this Sunshine Week, and throughout the year 2024 to work diligently to enhance Indigenous citizens’ access to their government’s records and information, to increase information provided online and electronically, and to ensure that all meetings of deliberative bodies under its jurisdiction, and their committees, are fully noticed and open to tribal citizens. Overall, Indigenous governments should be constitutionally obliged to protect press sovereignty.

The measures below are presented as examples and should be tailored to the transparency needs of your government and community. They should be as specific as possible and should be enacted within the coming year.

Section 2
TOWARD THAT END, the (name of governmental unit) directs that:
• The (fill in appropriate government official or office, such as county executive or general counsel) make recommendations within 90 days to the (name of government unit), based on public input, for strengthening transparency in our government. The recommendations should focus on actions that can be accomplished within one year of the date of this memorandum.
• All meetings of (name of governmental unit), its committees and subcommittees, and any board or agency created by (name of governmental unit) should be properly noticed and open to the public.
• All agencies, departments, and units of (name of governmental unit) accept, as a minimum, information requests submitted by the following methods: phone, mail (or its equivalent), over-the-counter, and online.
• A schedule of charges for copies of such records is established that does not exceed the actual cost.
• All agencies, departments, and units of (name of governmental unit) respond to all such requests for information within the number of business days as required by law. If the request is complex and the response deadline cannot reasonably be met, the requester should be so advised within the response deadline and provided with an anticipated final response date. Existing transparency laws vary from tribe to tribe. Many are silent on a specific response time, leaving it to the courts to determine what might be “reasonable.” Most that are specific require a response within two to five days.
• All agencies, departments, and units of (name of governmental unit) keep a log of each submitted request and the results thereby showing, at a minimum, the date the request was received; a summary of the request; the nature of the response (partial or full grant, denial); the number of elapsed days until a response is rendered and until the records are made available, if different; an indicator to denote if no records were available; the name of the requestor (when furnished); the requester’s email address (when furnished); and the staff member(s) responsible for processing the request. Submissions that provide no method of response must still be logged in but otherwise may be ignored.
• All agencies, departments, and units of (name of governmental unit) post onsite and online:
• Records that have been the subject of repeated requests or are likely to be subject to repeated requests. A record shall qualify as “subject to repeated requests” when it has been requested by different individuals or organizations with no formal connection to each other at least three times within the past twelve months.

[Without suggesting that any particular records are more important than others, here are two examples of records that immediately come to mind because of their importance and because they are regularly sought by requestors:]
• All contracts entered into that exceed $5,000, including details of the work to be carried out, estimated completion date and cost, and the name of the vendor(s) along with the amount, date, etc. of all checks issued.
• Post online and onsite, at least 72 hours in advance of formal consideration, copies of all budget requests and a copy of the final budget, with any justifications or other explanatory materials submitted as a part of the decision-making process.

Agree by filling out this form and please use your government email address for verification purposes.

About Sunshine Week
Sunshine Week was launched in 2005 by the American Society of News Editors and has grown into an enduring initiative to promote open government. Last December, the Joseph L. Brechner Freedom of Information Project at the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications took over the coordination of Sunshine Week. SPJ is a proud partner of Sunshine Week 2024.

About SPJ
SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to informing citizens; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and fights to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member, give to the Legal Defense Fund or give to the SPJ Foundation.

About IJA
The Indigenous Journalists Association’s mission is centered on the idea that accurate and contextual reporting about Indigenous people and communities is necessary to overcome biases and stereotypes portrayed in popular and mainstream media. Originally formed as the Native American Press Association in 1983, the organization has grown from just a handful of reporters to a membership of nearly 900, which includes Indigenous journalists, associates, educators and partners.

About IMFA
The Indigenous Media Freedom Alliance is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit media organization with articles of incorporation in North Dakota. IMFA’s mission is to improve the civil liberties of American Indians through research, advocacy, and nation building. The vision is a world where democracy thrives for Indigenous people through an independent press.

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