Categories
SDX-Winners

SDX22 Winners

Deadline Reporting (Single-issue circ 40k+ or online only)

Vacationing AP reporter’s lightning fast response dominates coverage of author’s shock stabbing
Joshua Goodman, David Bauder, Hillel Italie, The Associated Press
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3 | Link 4 | Link 5


Deadline Reporting (Single-issue circ. up to 40k)

Hurricane Ian devastates Southwest Florida
Staff , The News-Press, Naples Daily News
View Online: Link 1


Non-Deadline Reporting (Single-issue circ 40k+ or online only)

Erasing Mariupol
Mstyslav Chernov, Evgeniy Maloletka, Vasilisa Stepanenko, Lori Hinnant, The Associated Press
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3


Non-Deadline Reporting (Single-issue circ up to 40k)

Bridges on the brinkSean D. Hamill, Jonathan D. Silver, Ed Blazina, Joel Jacobs, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3 | Link 4 | Link 5 | Link 6


Investigative Reporting (Single-issue circ 40k+ or online only)

Broken homesJoaquin Palomino, Trisha Thadani, San Francisco Chronicle
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3


Investigative Reporting (Single-issue circ up to 40k)

Disabled and abandonedCaroline Ghisolfi, Tony Plohetski, Nicole Foy, Austin American-Statesman
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3 | Link 4 | Link 5


Feature Reporting (Single-issue circ 40k+ or online only)

A world gone mad: Schizophrenia and a journey through California’s failed mental health systemThomas Curwen, Los Angeles Times
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3


Magazine Writing

‘I was never ready for this’Lizzie Presser, ProPublica, The New York Times Magazine
View Online: Link 1


Magazine Investigative Reporting

Kate Price remembers something terribleJanelle Nanos, The Boston Globe
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3 | Link 4 | Link 5


Public Service Journalism

How Hasidic schools are reaping millions but failing studentsEliza Shapiro, Brian M. Rosenthal, The New York Times

View Online: Link 1


Feature Reporting (Single-issue circ up to 40k)

The art of reparationSteffie Nelson, Red Canary Magazine
View Online: Link 1


Editorial Writing (Single-issue circ 40k+ or online only)

Standing with UvaldeJosh Brodesky, Nancy M. Preyor-Johnson, Cary Clack, Brandon Lingle, San Antonio Express-News

View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3


Editorial Writing (Single-issue circ up to 40k)

EditorialsDavid Plazas, The Tennessean
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3


Washington Correspondence

Keeping an eye on Hawaii’s congressional delegationNick Grube, Honolulu Civil Beat
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3


Foreign Correspondence

Economic impacts of Putin’s war on UkraineMarc Champion, Bloomberg News
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3


General Column Writing (Single-issue circ 40k+ or online only)

ColumnsMyron Medcalf, Star Tribune
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3


General Column Writing (Single-issue circ up to 40k)

ColumnsMelinda Henneberger, The Sacramento Bee
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3 | Link 4 | Link 5


Sports Column Writing (Single-issue circ 40k+ or online only)

ColumnsMichael Silver, San Francisco Chronicle
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3


Spanish-language Print/Online News Reporting

La lucha del trabajador en primera línea Ariana Perez-Castells, Natalia Sánchez Loayza, Tasha Sandoval, El Deadline
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3


Spanish-language Print/Online Feature Reporting

Los silenciosos cartonerosFrank Lopez Ballesteros, palabra.
View Online: Link 1


Spanish-language Print/Online Investigative Reporting

Salud de Alquiler: inmigrantes latinos participan una y otra vez en ensayos clínicos por dineroJorge Carrasco, Ana M. Rodríguez, Eulimar Nunez, Noticias Telemundo
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3 | Link 4 | Link 5


Public Service in Newsletter Journalism

Closing argumentStaff, The Marshall Project
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2


Sports Reporting (Print/Online/Wire)

The KeeperJuliet Macur, The New York Times

View Online: Link 1


ART / GRAPHICS / MULTIMEDIA

Breaking News Photography (Single-issue circ up to 40k or affiliated website)

Ashes to ashesJake May, The Flint Journal, MLive.com
View Online: Link 1


Breaking News Photography (Single-issue circ 40k+ or affiliated website/online only)

Fleeing warEmilio Morenatti, Associated Press

View Online: Link 1


Feature Photography (Single-issue circ up to 40k or affiliated website)

A brother’s loveJake May, The Flint Journal, MLive.com
View Online: Link 1


Feature Photography (Single-issue circ 40k+ or affiliated website/online only)

SnowflakesScott Serio, Scott Serio freelance for Broadway World

Members of the corps de ballet perform the Snowflake movement during the Philadelphia BalletÕs annual run of TchaikovskyÕs revered holiday classic The Nutcracker at the Academy of Music in Philadelphia on December 9, 2022.

Sports Photography

Wayne can still trainScott Serio, Hipismo.net

View Online: Link 1


Editorial Cartooning (Single-issue circ up to 40k or affiliated website/online only)

Michael Ramirez editorial cartoonsMichael Ramirez, Las Vegas Review-Journal

View Online: Link 1 |Link 2 | Link 3 | Link 4


Editorial Cartooning (Single-issue circ 40k+ or affiliated website)

Editorial cartoonsGary Markstein, Creators Syndicate
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3 | Link 4 | Link 5


Informational Graphics/Data Visualization

Inside the apocalyptic worldview of ‘Tucker Carlson Tonight’Staff, The New York Times

View Online: Link 1


Specialized Journalism Site

The people vs. rubber bulletsLinda Rodriguez McRobbie, Eoin O’Carroll, John Patrick Pullen, Amelia Lang, Long Lead
View Online: Link 1


Digital Video

Why miners risk their lives to get sulfur from an active volcanoInsider Staff, Insider
View Online: Link 1


Immersion Journalism

Destroying Maya treasures to build a tourist trainKevin Sieff and Whitney Leaming , The Washington Post
View Online: Link 1


Photo Essay/Slideshow

The things COVID victims left behindStaff, CNN
View Online: Link 1


Illustration

What’s in the water at PepsiCo?Steven Wilson, Fortune

View Online: Link 1


AUDIO

Radio Breaking News Reporting (All Markets or Network Syndication)

Sri Lanka at the breaking pointCarolyn Beeler, The World/PRX
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3


Radio Investigative Reporting (All Markets or Network Syndication)

How the newest federal prison became one of the deadliestJoseph Shapiro, Christie Thompson, The Marshall Project staff, NPR, The Marshall Project
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2


Radio Feature Reporting (Market 1-100 or Network Syndication)

Grief and grit: Ten years after Sandy Hook, one woman continues to wrestle with her double lossTovia Smith, Catherine Laidlaw, Walter Ray Watson, Elizabeth Baker, National Public Radio
View Online: Link 1


Public Service in Radio Journalism (All Market or Network Syndication)

A place to call homeStaff, North Country Public Radio
View Online: Link 1


Podcast, Narrative/Radio Documentary

Inside the global fight for white powerVerified from Scripps News, Reveal from the Center for Investigative Reporting , Scripps News
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3 | Link 4 | Link 5 | Link 6


Radio Feature Reporting (Market 101+)

Dairy worker housing goes uninspected. The result is horrific conditions on some farms.Lucy Grindon, David Sommerstein, North Country Public Radio
View Online: Link 1


Podcast, Conversational

Doorstep: Can Putin be prosecuted for war crimes?Tatiana Serafin, Nick Gvosdev, Carnegie Council
View Online: Link 1


Radio Sports Reporting

Chinatown’s 9-man tournament takes its Labor Day showdown to ProvidenceAimee Moon, WBUR
View Online: Link 1


TELEVISION

Television Breaking News Coverage (Network/Syndication Service/Program Service)

Hurricane IanMSNBC/NBC News staff , NBC News
View Online: Link 1


Television Breaking News Coverage (All Markets)

Uvalde school massacreKPRC 2 staff, KPRC-TV
View Online: Link 1


Television Investigative Reporting (Network/Syndication Service/Program Service)

What happened at Grizzly Flats?Bill Whitaker, Heather Abbott, LaCrai Mitchell, Michael Mongulla, CBS News 60 Minutes
View Online: Link 1


Television Investigative Reporting (All Markets)

Disabled and deniedProject Baltimore staff, WBFF-TV
View Online: Link 1


Television Feature Reporting (Network/Syndication Service/Program Service)

Somalia on the brink of starvationStaff, ABC News
View Online: Link 1


Television Feature Reporting (Large-Market Station: 1-50 market)

Mei’s messengerPeter Rosen, Tanner Siegworth, KSL TV
View Online: Link 1


Television Feature Reporting (Small-Market Station: 51+ market)

Descendants’ voicesRoberta Oster, Dennis Ting, Brad Clore, VPM News Focal Point
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2


Television Documentaries (Network/Syndication Service/Program Service)

Putin’s Attack on Ukraine: Documenting War CrimesThomas Jennings, Producer/Director/Writer, FRONTLINE Annie Wong, Director, Producer, FRONTLINE Erika Kinetz, Producer/Reporter/Correspondent, AP, FRONTLINE (PBS)
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2


Television Documentaries (Large-Market Station: 1-50 market)

Burned: The story behind the Marshall fireChris Hansen, Chris Vanderveen, KUSA
View Online: Link 1


Public Service in Television Journalism (Network/Syndication Service/Program Service)

Conviction: The case of Vincent SimmonsDavid Begnaud, T. Sean Herbert, Christine Weicher, CBS Mornings staff, CBS NEWS
View Online: Link 1


Public Service in Television Journalism (All Markets)

The secrets they keepDave Biscobing, ABC15 staff. , ABC15 Arizona
View Online: Link 1


Spanish-language Television News Reporting

De frontera a fronteraCelia Mendoza, Voice of America
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2


Spanish-language Television Investigative Reporting

Las mansiones de la perversiónUnivision Investiga/Univision Noticias staff, Univision
View Online: Link 1


Spanish-language Television Feature Reporting

Mayan rapper Pat Boy seeks to preserve his culture for the next generationsVeronica Villafañe, Voice of America
View Online: Link 1


Television Sports Reporting

Musial Awards storiesMike Bush, Scott Suppelsa, Adam Dew, Tom Stasiak, KSDK-TV
View Online: Link 1


ALL PLATFORMS

Fact Checking

Fact-checking: The truth about Hunter BidenGlenn Kessler, The Washington Post
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3 | Link 4 | Link 5


Collaborative Journalism

A new prescriptionGuy Boulton (professional); Alexa Jurado, Annie Mattea, Vanessa Rivera (students), Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3 | Link 4 | Link 5


Inequalities in Society (Print/Online)

Exploring race in CaliforniaTyrone Beason, Los Angeles Times
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3


Science/Environment/Climate Reporting

Climate and punishmentAlleen Brown, Akil Harris, The Intercept
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3 | Link 4 | Link 5


Travel Journalism

Stuck@work: When your country’s brand is escape, but you can’tGregory Warner, Catarina Fernandes Martins, and Staff of Rough Translation
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3


Arts/Entertainment/Fashion Journalism

Museum reporting that led to an F.B.I. probe and a director’s firingBrett Sokol, The New York Times

View Online: Link 1


Food/Restaurant Journalism

Food is loveJay Korff, WJLA
View Online: Link 1


Cultural Criticism

ColumnsMelanie McFarland, Salon
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3 | Link 4


Inequalities in Society (Television, Audio)

How sewer diving became one of the most dangerous jobs In India and PakistanSara Khan, Bhaavan Goswami, Zainab Nasir, Havovi Cooper, Insider
View Online: Link 1


Crime Reporting

Murder or mercyLane DeGregory, Tampa Bay Times
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2


Obituaries

A life well livedStaff, NBC News, Sunday Today
View Online: Link 1


Business/Finance Reporting

Rent baronsHeather Vogell, Haru Coryne, Erin Smith, Ryan Little – ProPublica, ProPublica
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3


Regional Political Reporting

Elise StefanikZach Hirsch, David Sommerstein, North Country Public Radio
View Online: Link 1


Consumer/Retail Reporting

Secret surveillance, mining customer data: How retailers help bag shoplifting kingpinsAndrew Blankstein, Simone Weichselbaum, Rich Schapiro, Mark Schone, NBC News Investigations

View Online: Link 1


Tech Reporting

QAnon, Bangladesh, misinformation, and Canadian truckers: How social media created a false convoyGrid News staff, Grid News
View Online: Link 1 | Link 2

Categories
SDX-Home

SDX-Home

View the Sigma Delta Chi 2022 awards presentation now:

The Sigma Delta Chi Awards date back to 1932, when the Society first honored six individuals for contributions to journalism. The current program began in 1939, when the organization awarded the first Distinguished Service Awards. These awards later became the Sigma Delta Chi Awards.

The awards recognize the best in professional journalism in categories covering print/online, audio, television, and more.

Recent and new additions include awards for Consumer/Retail Reporting, Tech Reporting, Regional Political Reporting, Cultural Criticism and seven Spanish-language categories.


General Rules

  • The contest is open to any work published or broadcast by a U.S. or international media outlet. Freelance work is eligible. Entries must have been published or broadcast during 2022.
  • Every entry must be accompanied by a cover letter.
  • Apart from Spanish-language categories, If not originally published or broadcast in English, entries must include an English transcript or English subtitles.
  • All entries in all categories must be uploaded to the online awards site.
  • Entrants in all online categories should keep their sites intact and accessible until September 30, 2023.
  • Divisions within a category might be combined during judging, depending on the number of entries.
  • Up to four (4) individuals may be named on a team entry, otherwise the entry must be made in the name of the staff of the publication or station.
  • No part of any entry will be returned. SPJ reserves the right to use any part or the whole of any entry for publicity or educational purposes.
  • Supporting materials can consist of a PDF or Word document (limit five pages, combined into one document if possible) or up to 10 minutes of video.
  • If a State/Local news organization collaborates with a National/Network news organization, the entry belongs in a National/Network category.
  • Each entry may be submitted in only one category. However, visuals, graphics and video entered as part of a writing award also may be submitted in a visual category. Visual categories include all Photography, Videography, Photo Illustration, and Cartooning categories.
     

[Top]


Helpful Hints

  • Let your cover letter speak for you. Explain why you believe your entry is the finest example of journalism in its category.
  • Sidebars, editorials, op-ed pieces and letters-to-the-editor may be included as supporting material but must be limited to five pages per entry. Combine PDFs into one file, if possible.
  • Some categories are based on National/Network and State/Local.. Entries not submitted in the correct category will be disqualified. Entry fees are not refundable.
  • In the Audio/TV categories, all edits/segments should be made explicit, through use of silence, beeps or some other fully transparent mechanism.
  • Print circulation distinctions for newspapers and magazines are to be based on non-Sunday, single issue distribution. If submitting for a weekly, monthly, or Sunday-only publication, provide single-issue circulation details in the cover letter.

[Top]


Entry Requirements

Entry Fee

Not an SPJ member? Now’s the perfect time to join. Join today and save 40 percent on your entry fee.

  • SPJ members (on or before deadline): $60 per entry
  • Non-members (at or before deadline): $100 per entry


To claim the $60 member fee, you must supply your personal SPJ member number. A team entry may claim the $60 fee if at least one member of the team is a member of SPJ. You must provide the member’s name and SPJ member number.

  • SPJ accepts credit card payments from Visa, MasterCard and American Express.
  • Make checks payable to Society of Professional Journalists.
  • No refunds issued.
  • Please note: SPJ does not have institutional memberships for professional organizations where one membership number would cover all entries from that organization.

Cover Letter

A one-page cover letter with the following information is required for all entries. Letter should include:

  • A summary of the entry.
  • A discussion of major findings and subsequent results.
  • A review of the process followed to get the story, including information about the circumstances that prompted the story; the length of time taken to report, write, and edit; and sources and references used.
  • An account of the difficulty or uniqueness of effort in obtaining the story.
  • Adapt content as needed for editorial and art/graphic categories.
  • Include print circulation information. Print circulation distinctions for newspapers and magazines are to be based on non-Sunday, single issue distribution. If submitting for a weekly, monthly, or Sunday-only publication, provide single-issue circulation details in the cover letter.
     

Divisions

  • National/Network and State/Local have replaced circulation/market size in some, not all, categories. Each entry in these categories must be accompanied by a statement of the news organization’s coverage area and print circulation. The name and title of the person submitting must be legible. No entry for a divided category will be accepted without a statement of coverage area.
  • Nationally syndicated cable television programs are classified as networks.
  • National/Network and State/Local classifications are based on primary coverage.

     

Accuracy Requirement

Any corrections, clarifications or retractions made after initial publishing or broadcast must be submitted as part of the entry. Also, copies of any written challenges to the report’s accuracy sent to the entrant or the news organization by or on behalf of those mentioned — including but not limited to letters, e-mails or legal papers — must be included with the entry. Any responses by the news organization must also be included.
[Top]


Judging Criteria

  • Materials will be judged by a panel of professional journalists and/or journalism educators. All decisions are final except that the Board of Directors of SPJ may decide not to make an award in a particular category if doing so would compromise the award program.
  • One award is issued in each category; no ties or honorable mentions are awarded.
  • An award may be withheld if the judges decide no entry merits recognition in that category.
  • Authorities are “Editor and Publisher Yearbook” for circulation, “Nielsen Audio” for radio market size and “Broadcasting and Cable Marketplace” for television market size. Nationally syndicated cable television programs are classified as networks. National/Network and State/Local classifications are based on primary coverage.
  • Each TV or Audio entry must be a source or contact person to verify the news organization’s primary coverage. Similarly, each print entry must include a source who can verify circulation.


Entries will be judged on the following criteria:

  • Readability
  • Effectiveness of interpretation
  • Accuracy and completeness
  • Enterprise
  • Clarity and Style
  • Resourcefulness of the reporter in overcoming obstacles
  • Interest
  • Adherence to the SPJ Code of Ethics

[Top]


Public Service Categories

In addition to the listed criteria, entries in the public service categories will be judged on the significance of the service rendered. Judges will look for evidence of courage and initiative in overcoming opposition; effectiveness of the presentation; and results obtained, such as changes and reforms effected or pledged.[Top]


Category-specific Rules

See a list of categories

Print/Online Entries (Newspaper and Magazine Categories)

  • Entrants need to submit a link to the online article or a PDF of the page on which the story appeared. The date of publication must be visible. Online entries that do not provide complete and accurate URLs will be disqualified.
  • PDFs should have the same name as the title of the story.
  • PDFs should be combined into one file, when possible. The cover letter and supporting material should be separated from the main entry.
  • Supporting material must be limited to five pages.
  • Daily publications must be printed at least four times per week and available by delivery, newsstands and/or vending machines. Otherwise, they are considered Non-Daily.
  • Entrants must keep their entries intact and accessible until September 30, 2023.
  • Judging will take place February-April 2023. The Specialized Journalism Site category will be judged on content as presented during this time span.
  • Affiliated online publications are those owned by or partnered with media organizations whose primary outlets are not based on the Web, such as broadcast stations, newspapers or magazines.
  • Independent online publications are stand-alone sites not owned or partnered with print or broadcast media organizations.
  • Newsletter entrants should submit a PDF of the newsletter, or a link to the site where the newsletter is published online.
  • Reviews and critical pieces should not be submitted in the Arts/Fashion Journalism category. Instead, submit those to Cultural Criticism.
     

Art/Graphics Entries

  • For photographs published in a newspaper or magazine or on an online news site, entrant should submit a PDF of the page on which the art appeared in print or a link to the art published on an online news site. The date of publication should be visible.
  • For single-photo categories, make clear which photograph is to be considered.
  • It’s optional to submit the actual digital/cartoon/graphic for clearer viewing.

Radio Entries

  • Entries may be edited for length.
  • Entrant should submit a link to the work online or upload an audio file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit]
  • Radio entries should upload all audio files in .mp3 (preferred), .wav or .aiff format. Audio in other formats will not be accepted. Podcast entrants should upload the work to an online audio or video site and submit the URL (preferred) or upload the file(s) to the awards site [50 MB file limit]. Files must be in one of the following formats: .mp3, .wav, .aiff, .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.
  • National/Network and State/Local classifications are based on primary coverage. Market size based on Nielsen Audio Market PDF
  • Podcast entries must be no more than 30 minutes long and may be edited for length.

Television Entries

  • Entries may be edited for length.  
  • Work aired on an internet TV station should be entered in the Digital Video category.  
  • Entrant should upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred), or upload a video file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit]  
  • Supporting material must be limited to 10 minutes of video.  
  • See market size breakdown [PDF; opens in new window]  

[Top]


Awards Presentation

Winners are scheduled to be announced in June 2023. Details on the awards reception’s format and venue will be announced as soon as they are confirmed.

Due to the volume of entries received, only those who are awarded will be contacted with results.
  [Top]


For more information, contact SPJ Headquarters via email.

Categories
MOEWinners

MOE22 Winners

Print/Online

Breaking News Reporting (Large)
Neetish Basnet for “Arizona officials decry, delight in Supreme Court ending abortion rights” — Cronkite News, Arizona State University

Breaking News Reporting (Small)
Taylor Wooten for “Transgender sports bill receives further testimony at Senate Education Committee” — TheStatehouseFile.com, Franklin College

General News Reporting (Large)
Staff of The Vanderbilt Hustler for “Transgender health care investigation, reaction” —Vanderbilt University

General News Reporting (Small)
Alexa Shrake, Isaac Gleitz and Sydney Byerly for “Thomas Minar series” — TheStatehouseFile.com, Franklin College

In-Depth Reporting (Large)
Cami Parrish for “’I’m tired’: Teachers face mental health crisis due to low pay, pandemic stress, scant support” — Cronkite News, Arizona State University

In-Depth Reporting (Small)
Brenna Brown for “PBC small businesses: Post-COVID-19 era” — The Beacon Today, Palm Beach Atlantic University

Feature Writing (Large)
Josh Archote for “A Klansman’s sons seek to understand and redress his wrongs” — Multiple via the LSU Manship News Service, Louisiana State University

Feature Writing (Small)
Brandon Hill for “Boston buries its Black music” — The Hoopla, Emerson College

Sports Writing (Large)
Lindsay Wyson for “Name, image, likeness: Leveling the playing field for female athletes” — Universe Live Sports, Brigham Young University

Sports Writing (Small)
Catherine Galanti for “For minor leaguers, playing professional baseball is not living the dream” — The Los Angeles Loyolan, Loyola Marymount University

Editorial/Opinion Writing
Editorial board of The Harvard Crimson, Harvard University

General Column Writing
Renee Walker for “Mental health columns” — The Poly Post, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona

Sports Column Writing
Caleb Nguyen for “Caleb’s columns from the sports desk” — The Poly Post, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona

Corbin Gwaltney Award for Best All-Around Student Newspaper (Large)
Staff of The Independent Florida Alligator, University of Florida

Corbin Gwaltney Award for Best All-Around Student Newspaper (Small)
Staff of The Maroon, Loyola University New Orleans

Best Student Magazine
Staff of Talon Magazine for “Bread and circus” — Community College of Denver

Best Affiliated Web Site
Staff of The Maroon Online, Loyola University New Orleans

Best Independent Online Student Publication
Staff of The 5 O’Clock Project, Syracuse University

Art/Graphics/Multimedia

Breaking News Photography
Anthony Scilla for “Mill fire” — The Kent Stater/KentWired, Kent State University

General News Photography
Grace Smith for “Roe v Wade Protest” — The Daily Iowan, University of Iowa

Feature Photography
Chiana McInelly for “GU student doubles as route-setter at Wild Walls Rock Climbing” — The Gonzaga Bulletin, Gonzaga University

Photo Essay/Slideshow
Taylor Bayly for “In focus: Migrants languish in Mexico’s chaotic immigration system” — Cronkite Borderlands Project, Arizona State University

Illustration
Trevor Brighton for “Erasing Russia” — The Post, Ohio University

Photo Illustration
Maggie Getzin for “Brain drain” — The Ball State Daily News, Ball State University

Sports Photography
Jason White for “ASU gymnastics home win” — The State Press, Arizona State University

Editorial Cartooning
Liam Simonelli for “Giving students a voice” — The College VOICE, Mercer County Community College

Best Use of Multimedia
Staff of USC JOVRNALISM for “Reflections of the L.A. uprising” — University of Southern California

News Videography
Chris Will for “Operation Island Rescue” — WUFT News, University of Florida

Feature Videography
Olivia Yarvis for “One family flees Texas in search of safer climate for their transgender daughter” — Texas Tribune, Northwestern University

Sports Videography
Manuel Serrano and Averi Coppa for “Never stand still” — The NewsHouse, Syracuse University

Data Visualization
Angeli Mittal and Zoey Soh for “The Daily Northwestern’s live midterm coverage” — The Daily Northwestern, Northwestern University

Audio

Radio News Reporting
Hallie Gutzwiller for “Wildfires burn across Nebraska” — 90.3 KRNU, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Radio Feature
Autriya Maneshni for “Election translation” — Cronkite News, Arizona State University

Radio In-Depth Reporting
Jared McBride for “Mobile residents learn the history of the last known slave ship in Alabama” — TROY Public Radio, Troy University

Radio Sports Reporting
Daniel Myrick for “’B Daht,’ the Dean Dome’s new arena host, hopes to fire up the fans – and spread a positive message” — Carolina Connection, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Best All-Around Radio Newscast
Staff of Carolina Connection, North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Podcast (Narrative)
Mary Steffenhagen for “Home ed” — NYCity News Service, City University of New York

Podcast (Conversational)
Simone Melvin for “Pony out: An SMU transfer story” — The Daily Campus, Southern Methodist University

Broadcast

Television Breaking News Reporting
Isabella Leahy and Matthew Noah for “Penn State cancels controversial event over security concerns” — WPSU, The Pennsylvania State University

Television General News Reporting
Albert James for “Three years on: What has changed with hazing culture at WSU?” — Murrow News 8, Washington State University

Television Feature Reporting
Henry Pree for “Native fish keepers” — Montana PBS, University of Montana

Television In-Depth Reporting
Austin Hedgecoth for “Crypto’s final frontier” — DCTV, University of North Texas

Television Sports Reporting
Nyah Adams and Aiden Farrell for “Jeremiah Minkel” — UTVS Television, St. Cloud State University

Best All-Around Television Newscast

Tyler Walsh, Spencer Askinazy, Ben Ezzy and Katelyn Kucharski for “NewsVision” — UMTV, University of Miami

Best All-Around Television News Magazine
Staff of UMTV for “PrimeTime” — University of Miami

All Platforms

Arts/Entertainment/Fashion Journalism
Alicia Chang for “It may look like falling water, but Lynn Hall has its own story to tell” — Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, The Pennsylvania State University

Collaborative Journalism
Fellows and faculty of Global Reporting Program/The Globe and Mail for “Growing older” — University of British Columbia

Cultural Criticism
Vivienne N. Germain for “Theater commentary” — The Harvard Crimson, Harvard University

Food/Restaurant Journalism
Athena Cheris for “Meals under $10 for the hungry college student series” — The Los Angeles Loyolan, Loyola Marymount University

Investigative Reporting
Simon J. Levien for “A secret at the hearth of Adams House” — The Harvard Crimson, Harvard University

Retail/Small Business Reporting
Josephine Walker for “Small cannabis entrepreneurs say they can’t compete against ‘Walmart of weed’” — VCU Capital News Service, Virginia Commonwealth University

Science/Environmental/Climate Reporting
Stephen Pastis for “The business of recycling: How SC recycles and why it can be so complicated” — The Carolina News & Reporter, University of South Carolina College of Journalism

Categories
Awards SDX-Category

SDX Categories 2022

Print/Online/Wire

Deadline Reporting

  — Single-issue circulation 40k+ or online only

  — Single-issue circulation up to 40k

This award recognizes a reporter or team for deadline reporting of a single breaking news event. Entries must have been published in the issue that directly follows the event.

Entrants should submit a link to the online article or a PDF of the page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication should be visible. 

Include circulation in the cover letter. Use non-Sunday circulation number unless it’s a Sunday-only publication.


Non-Deadline Reporting

  — Single-issue circulation 40k+ or online only

  — Single-issue circulation up to 40k

This award recognizes a reporter or team for non-deadline reporting of a single event or issue. Entry may be a single article or a series of no more than three articles.

Entrants should submit a link to the online article or a PDF of the page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication should be visible. 

Include circulation in the cover letter. Use non-Sunday circulation number unless it’s a Sunday-only publication.


Investigative Reporting

  — Single-issue circulation 40k+ or online only

  — Single-issue circulation up to 40k

This award recognizes a reporter or team for investigative reporting of a single event or issue. Entry may be a single article or a series of no more than three articles.

Entrants should submit a link to the online article or a PDF of the page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication should be visible. 

Include circulation in the cover letter. Use non-Sunday circulation number unless it’s a Sunday-only publication.


Feature Reporting

  — Single-issue circulation 40k+ or online only

  — Single-issue circulation up to 40k

This award recognizes a reporter or team for feature writing. Entry may be a personality profile, trend story, human interest story or any feature that is not a breaking news story.

Entrants should submit a link to the online article or a PDF of the page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication should be visible. 

Include circulation in the cover letter. Use non-Sunday circulation number unless it’s a Sunday-only publication.


Sports Reporting

This award recognizes a reporter or team for sports writing. Entries may be a single article or series of no more than three.

Entrants should submit a link to the online article or a PDF of the page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication should be visible. 

Include circulation in the cover letter. Use non-Sunday circulation number unless it’s a Sunday-only publication.


Editorial Writing

  — Single-issue circulation 40k+ or online only

  — Single-issue circulation up to 40k

This award recognizes an editorial writer or team of writers. Entry may be one editorial or a series of no more than three on a single subject. Judges will consider whether the conclusion is logical, fair and of general importance to the community.

Entrants should submit links to the editorials online or PDFs of the page on which the editorials appeared in print. The dates of publication should be visible. Word documents containing the editorials will not be accepted.

Include circulation in the cover letter. Use non-Sunday circulation number unless it’s a Sunday-only publication.


Washington Correspondence

This award recognizes a correspondent on assignment in Washington, D.C. Entry must consist of three different stories demonstrating insightful coverage of significant events or issues. All platforms, including broadcast, are eligible.

For print/online entries, entrants should submit a link to the online articles or a PDF of the page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication should be visible.  For video broadcast, entrants should upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred) or upload a file to the awards site. All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4. All audio-only files must be .mp3 (preferred), .wav or .aiff format.


Foreign Correspondence

This award recognizes a correspondent or unified person team on assignment outside the U.S. Entry must consist of three different stories demonstrating insightful coverage of significant events or issues. All platforms, including broadcast, are eligible.

For print/online entries, entrants should submit a link to the online articles or a PDF of the page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication should be visible.  For video broadcast, entrants should upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred) or upload a file to the awards site. All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4. All audio-only files must be .mp3 (preferred), .wav or .aiff format.


General Column Writing

  — Single-issue circulation 40k+ or online only/non-daily publication

  — Single-issue circulation up to 40k

Entry must consist of three different print and/or online columns.

Entrants should submit links to the columns online or PDFs of the page on which the columns appeared in print. The dates of publication should be visible. Word documents containing the columns will not be accepted.

Include circulation in the cover letter. Use non-Sunday circulation number unless it’s a Sunday-only publication.


Sports Column Writing

  — Single-issue circulation 40k+ or online only/non-daily publication

  — Single-issue circulation up to 40k

Entry must consist of three different print and/or online columns.

Entrants should submit links to the columns online or PDFs of the page on which the columns appeared in print. The dates of publication should be visible. Word documents containing the columns will not be accepted.

Include circulation in the cover letter. Use non-Sunday circulation number unless it’s a Sunday-only publication.


Public Service Journalism

This award recognizes a publication that renders public service through extensive coverage of an issue facing the community it serves. Entry may include a maximum of three articles.

Entries are limited to independent publications that have been issued regularly for more than one year and are supported by advertising, paid subscriptions or non-profit institutions.) Please provide this information in your cover letter. 

Entrants should submit a link to the online articles or a PDF of the pages on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication should be visible. 


Public Service in Newsletter Journalism

This award recognizes a newsletter that renders outstanding public services through extensive coverage of an issue facing the community it serves.

Entry may be a single article/issue or a series of no more than three articles/issues. .

Entries are limited to independent newsletters that have been issued regularly for more than one year and are supported by advertising, paid subscriptions or non-profit institutions. Please provide this information in your cover letter.

Entrant should submit a PDF of the newsletter, or a link to the site where the newsletter is published online.


Magazine Writing

This award recognizes the work of a magazine writer or team. Entry may be a single article or a series of no more than three articles on the same subject. Investigative work should go in the Magazine Investigative Reporting category.

Entrants should submit a link to the online article or a PDF of the magazine page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication should be visible. Word documents containing the article will not be accepted.


Magazine Investigative Reporting

This award is given to a magazine reporter or reporting team for investigative reporting. Entry may be a single article or a series of no more than three articles, including sidebars.

Entrants should submit a link to the online article or a PDF of the magazine page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication should be visible. Word documents containing the article will not be accepted.


Spanish-language Print/Online News Reporting

This award recognizes a reporter or team for non-deadline reporting of a single event or issue. Entry may be a single article or a series of no more than three articles originally written and presented in Spanish.

Entrants should submit a link to the online article or a PDF of the page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication should be visible. 


Spanish-language Print/Online Feature Reporting

This award recognizes a reporter or team for feature writing. Entries may be personality profiles, trend stories, human interest stories or any feature that is not a breaking news story. Entries may be a single article or series of no more than three originally written and presented in Spanish.

Entrants should submit a link to the online article or a PDF of the page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication should be visible. 


Spanish-language Print/Online Investigative Reporting

This award recognizes a reporter or team for investigative reporting of a single event or issue. Entry may be a single article or a series of no more than three articles originally written and presented in Spanish.

Entrants should submit a link to the online article or a PDF of the page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication should be visible. 


Spanish-language Print/Online Opinion Writing

Entries must consist of three different opinion pieces originally written and presented in Spanish.

Entrants should submit links to the columns online or PDFs of the page on which the columns appeared in print. The dates of publication should be visible. Word documents containing the columns will not be accepted.


Art/Graphics/Multimedia

Breaking News Photography

  — Single issue circulation up to 40k or affiliated website

  — Single issue circulation 40k+ or affiliated website/online only

This award recognizes a photographer, either staff or freelance. Entry should be a single, compelling image of a breaking news event.

For photographs published in a newspaper or magazine or on an online news site.

Entrant should submit a PDF of the newspaper/magazine page on which the photo appeared in print, or a link to the photo published on an online news site. The date of publication should be visible.

Use non-Sunday circulation number unless it’s a Sunday-only publication.


Feature Photography

  — Single issue circulation up to 40k or affiliated website

 — Single issue circulation 40k+ or affiliated website/online only

This award recognizes a photographer or team, either staff or freelance, for work featuring personality profiles, trends, human interest or any other feature that is not a breaking news story. Entry must be a single photo.

Entrant should submit a PDF of the newspaper/magazine page on which the photo appeared in print, or a link to the photo published on an online news site. The date of publication should be visible.

Use non-Sunday circulation number unless it’s a Sunday-only publication.


Sports Photography

This award recognizes a photographer or team, either staff or freelance, for work featuring a sports event or sports figure. Entry must be a single photo. The photograph will be judged on technical excellence, newsworthiness and evidence that the photographer(s) exercised unusual diligence and ingenuity.

Entrant should submit a PDF of the newspaper/magazine page on which the photo appeared in print, or a link to the photo published on an online news site. The date of publication should be visible.

Include circulation in the cover letter. Use non-Sunday circulation number unless it’s a Sunday-only publication.


Photo Essay/Slideshow

This award recognizes a photographer or team, either staff or freelance, for a collection of photos packaged together in a single piece. 

The photograph will be judged on technical excellence, newsworthiness and evidence that the photographer(s) exercised unusual diligence and ingenuity.

Entrant should submit a PDF of the newspaper/magazine page on which the photos appeared in print, or a link to the photos published on an online news site. The date of publication should be visible.

Include circulation in the cover letter. Use non-Sunday circulation number unless it’s a Sunday-only publication.


Illustration

This award recognizes newspaper, magazine, newsletter or online news site graphic artist or team for artwork that does not include photographic elements. 

Submit a single illustration.

Clarity, originality, impact and quality of execution will distinguish the work. Entry must be a single graphic. Work designed on computer or by hand is acceptable. 

Entrant should submit a PDF of the marked newspaper/magazine page on which the illustration appeared in print, or a link to the graphic published on an online news site. The date of publication should be visible.


Editorial Cartooning

— Single issue circulation up to 40k or affiliated website/online only

— Single issue circulation 40k+ or affiliated website

This award recognizes an editorial cartoon published in a newspaper, magazine, newsletter or online news site. They will be judged on craftsmanship, interest, forcefulness, general worth and originality.

Entrants should submit PDFs of five different cartoons on marked newspaper/magazine pages, or links to the cartoons published on an online news site. The date of publication should be visible.

Animated online cartoons are acceptable but entry must include at least one static cartoon.

Use non-Sunday circulation number unless it’s a Sunday-only publication.


Informational Graphics/Data Visualization

This award recognizes newspaper, magazine, newsletter or online news site graphic artist or team for storytelling graphics and/or data visualization that bring important information to readers about an event, process or set of statistics. Clarity, originality, impact and quality of execution will distinguish the work.

A submission can include all data visualization and/or graphic elements that were featured in a single story or related series.

Entries will be judged on their newsworthiness, technical merit, originality, overall design and ability to communicate insightful information.

The entry may be dynamic (i.e., interactive) or static (i.e. intended for print). Static entries must be submitted in any of these formats: .jpg, .png, .gif, .svg , or .tiff. If the entry is dynamic (interactive) the entrant should provide a screenshot and hyperlink to the visualization. Max file size is 50 MB. Please be sure to include date of publication.

Entrant should submit a PDF of the marked newspaper/magazine page on which the graphic appeared in print, or a link to the graphic published on an online news site. The date of publication should be visible.


Specialized Journalism Site

This award recognizes a journalism website that focuses on a single topic. Judges will consider content, ingenuity, interactivity and use of multimedia tools.

Each entry should consist of one URL. If affiliated, site should have an independent domain name. Entries that do not provide a complete and accurate URL will be disqualified. Entrants must keep their nominated entries intact and accessible until September 30, 2022.

Judging will take place February-April 2022. This category will be judged on content as presented during this time span.


Digital Video

This award recognizes a breaking news, feature or investigative report created for original online presentation. Entries must be no more than 15 minutes long and may be edited for length.

Entrant should upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred) or upload a video file to the awards site [50 MB file limit]. All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Immersion Journalism

This award recognizes immersive journalism, including 360 video, augmented reality or virtual reality. Judges will consider content, ingenuity and how the medium fits the story.

Entries should consist of one main URL or respective app. Entries that do not provide complete and accurate URLs will be disqualified. Entrants must keep their nominated entries intact and accessible until September 30, 2022.


Audio

Radio Breaking News Reporting

This award recognizes resourceful and complete coverage of a major breaking news event, emphasizing both deadline reporting and continuing coverage as the story develops over succeeding days. Entries may include reports broadcast within 24 hours of the event. Maximum running time: 15 minutes. All audio files must be .mp3 (preferred), .wav or .aiff format. Audio in other formats will not be accepted.


Radio Investigative Reporting

This award recognizes a reporter or team for investigative reporting of a single event or issue. Entries may be a single broadcast or a series of no more than five parts. Maximum running time: 15 minutes. This category is for short reports; documentaries have a separate category. All audio files must be .mp3 (preferred), .wav or .aiff format. Audio in other formats will not be accepted.


Radio Feature Reporting

  — Large Market (1-100 or Network Syndication)

  — Small Market (101+)

This award recognizes a reporter or team for features. Entry may be personality profiles, trend stories, human-interest stories or any feature that is not breaking news. Entries may be a single broadcast or series of no more than three parts. Maximum running time: 10 minutes. All audio files must be .mp3 (preferred), .wav or .aiff format. Audio in other formats will not be accepted.


Radio Sports Reporting

This award recognizes a reporter or team for sports stories. Entries may be a single broadcast or series of no more than three parts on the same subject. Maximum running time: 10 minutes. All audio files must be .mp3 (preferred), .wav or .aiff format. Audio in other formats will not be accepted.


Public Service in Radio Journalism

  — Large Market (1-100 or Network Syndication)

  — Small Market (101+)

This award recognizes a radio news organization (station, network or group) that renders public service through extensive coverage of an issue facing the community it serves. Reporting may be conducted by one reporter or a team. Entry may be a single broadcast or a series of no more than three parts. Entry may be a single broadcast or a series of no more than 30 minutes. All audio files must be .mp3 (preferred), .wav or .aiff format. Audio in other formats will not be accepted.


John C. Ensslin Awards for Podcast Excellence: Conversational Podcast

The conversational category is for podcasts that consist primarily of monologues, interviews or panel discussions. These usually are recorded in studio and make minimal use of field material.

Entries must be no more than 30 minutes long and may be edited for length. Entrants may submit up to two files, not to exceed 15 minutes each.

Entrant should upload the work to an online audio or video site and submit the URL (preferred) or upload the file(s) to the awards site [50 MB file limit]. Files must be in one of the following formats: .mp3, .wav, .aiff, .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.

Named in honor of SPJ’s 2011-12 president, who died Aug. 5, 2019. After decades as a newspaper reporter, he became a successful podcaster, embracing the new platform.


John C. Ensslin Awards for Podcast Excellence: Narrative Podcast (including Radio Documentary)

The narrative category is for podcasts that make use of audio material beyond studio-recorded monologues, interviews, and panels.

Entries must be no more than 30 minutes long and may be edited for length. Entrants may submit up to two files, not to exceed 15 minutes each.

Entrant should upload the work to an online audio or video site and submit the URL (preferred) or upload the file(s) to the awards site [50 MB file limit]. Files must be in one of the following formats: .mp3, .wav, .aiff, .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.

Entries must be no more than 30 minutes long and may be edited for length. Entrants may submit up to two files, not to exceed 15 minutes each.

Entrant should upload the work to an online audio or video site and submit the URL (preferred) or upload the file(s) to the awards site [50 MB file limit]. Files must be in one of the following formats: .mp3, .wav, .aiff, .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.

Named in honor of SPJ’s 2011-12 president, who died Aug. 5, 2019. After decades as a newspaper reporter, he became a successful podcaster, embracing the new platform.[


Television

Television Breaking News Coverage

  — Network/Syndication Service/Program Service

  — All Markets

Each award recognizes resourceful and complete coverage of a major breaking news event, emphasizing both deadline reporting and continuing coverage as the story develops over succeeding days. Entries may include reports broadcast within 24 hours of the event. Maximum running time: 15 minutes.

Entrant should upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred), or upload a video file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Spanish-language Television News Reporting

This award recognizes a reporter or team for television reporting of a single event or issue. Entry may be a single report or series of no more than three connected reports on the same topic originally broadcast in Spanish.

Maximum running time: 15 minutes.

Entrant should upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred), or upload a video file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Television Investigative Reporting

  — Network/Syndication Service/Program Service

  — All Markets

Each award recognizes a reporter or team for investigative reporting of a single event or issue. Entry may be a single broadcast or a series of no more than five connected parts. Maximum running time: 15 minutes. This category is for short reports; documentaries have a separate category.

Entrant should upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred), or upload a video file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Television Sports Reporting

This award recognizes a reporter or team for sports reporting. Entry may be a single broadcast or a series of no more than three connected parts. Maximum running time: 15 minutes. 

Entrant should upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred), or upload a video file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Spanish-language Television Investigative Reporting

This award recognizes a reporter or team for television investigative reporting of a single event or issue. Entry may be a single piece or a series of no more than five connected pieces originally presented in Spanish.

Entrants should submit a link to the online article or a PDF of the newspaper page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication should be visible. 


Television Feature Reporting

  — Network/Syndication Service/Program Service

  — Large-Market Station: 1-50 market

  — Small-Market Station: 50+ market

Each award recognizes a reporter or team for features. Entry may be personality profiles, trend stories, human-interest stories or any feature that is not breaking news. Entry may be a single broadcast or series of no more than three parts. Maximum running time: 10 minutes.

Please note separate categories for Investigative Reporting, Public Service, Spanish-Language Feature Reporting, Inequalities in Society and Sports Reporting as well as all-platform categories for Science, Travel, Consumer/Retail Crime, Tech, Business/Finance, Regional Politics, Food/Restaurant, and Arts/Entertainment/Fashion reporting. Consider whether one of those would be more appropriate for your entry.

Entrant should upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred), or upload a video file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Spanish-language Television Feature Reporting

This award recognizes a reporter or team for a broadcast feature. Entries may be personality profiles, trend stories, human interest stories or any feature that is not a breaking news story. Entries must be a single piece originally presented in Spanish.

Maximum running time: 15 minutes.

Entrant should upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred), or upload a video file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Television Documentaries

  — Network/Syndication Service/Program Service

  — Large-Market Station: 1-50 market

  — Small-Market Station: 50+ market

Each award recognizes reporters and production teams that dramatically show or analyze a news event, issue or feature in a single telecast. The telecast may be part of a documentary series but must stand alone in telling its story. Maximum running time: 60 minutes. Documentary series themselves may be considered in the Public Service category, if applicable.

Please note separate categories for Investigative Reporting, Public Service, Spanish-Language Feature Reporting, Inequalities in Society and Sports Reporting as well as all-platform categories for Science, Travel, Consumer/Retail Crime, Tech, Business/Finance, Regional Politics, Food/Restaurant, and Arts/Entertainment/Fashion reporting. Consider whether one of those would be more appropriate for your entry.

Entrant should upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred), or upload a video file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Public Service in Television Journalism

  — Network/Syndication Service/Program Service

  — All Markets

Each award recognizes a television news organization that renders public service through extensive coverage of an issue facing the community it serves. Reporting may be conducted by one reporter or a team. Entry may be a single broadcast or a series of no more than 30 minutes. Commercially sponsored programs are ineligible unless produced and controlled by the news organization.

Entrant should upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred), or upload a video file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


All Platforms

Arts/Entertainment/Fashion Journalism

This category recognizes outstanding work in focusing on arts, entertainment and/or fashion.

Submit one piece or series of no more than three pieces by a single writer.

Entries can include anything aired, streamed or published and may include but are not limited to personality/company profiles, trends, features and investigative reports. Critical/opinion pieces should be submitted to the new Cultural Criticism category.

A single piece may only be entered in one category (i.e. If entering a story here, it cannot also be entered in Television Documentaries).

1) Print/Online: no more than three elements to a submission

OR

2) Video/Audio: total running time of entry cannot exceed 15 minutes; entry may include multiple parts as long as the time limit is observed.

Entries that exceed the 15-minute limit will be disqualified.


Business/Finance Reporting

This new category recognizes outstanding work focusing on business and/or finance.

Entries can include anything aired, streamed or published.

Submit one piece or series of no more than three pieces by a single writer or writing team on a single topic.

A single piece may only be entered in one category (i.e. If entering a story here, it cannot also be entered in Feature Reporting).

1) Print/Online: no more than three elements to a submission

OR

2) Video/Audio: total running time of entry cannot exceed 15 minutes; entry may include multiple parts as long as the time limit is observed.

Entries that exceed the 15-minute limit will be disqualified.


Collaborative Journalism

This category is for two or more unrelated organizations in which at least one is a college, university or similar academic program that has contributed significantly. This award recognizes collaborative team reporting on a topic involving both professional and student reporting teams.

Entries must include one main URL and up to four additional URLS to highlight specific elements of the project. Entries that fail to provide active URLs will be disqualified. Entries will be judged on newsworthiness, originality, design, content, and clarity.


Consumer/Retail Reporting

This new category recognizes outstanding work focusing on consumer and retail stories.

Entries can include anything aired, streamed or published.

Submit one piece or series of no more than three pieces by a single writer on a single topic.

A single piece may only be entered in one category (i.e. If entering a story here, it cannot also be entered in Feature Reporting).

1) Print/Online: no more than three elements to a submission

OR

2) Video/Audio: total running time of entry cannot exceed 15 minutes; entry may include multiple parts as long as the time limit is observed.

Entries that exceed the 15-minute limit will be disqualified


Crime Reporting

This new category recognizes outstanding work focusing on crime.

Entries can include anything aired, streamed or published.

Submit one piece or series of no more than three pieces by a single writer on a single topic.

A single piece may only be entered in one category (i.e. If entering a story here, it cannot also be entered in Feature Reporting).

1) Print/Online: no more than three elements to a submission

OR

2) Video/Audio: total running time of entry cannot exceed 20 minutes; entry may include multiple parts as long as the time limit is observed.

Entries that exceed the 20-minute limit will be disqualified.


Cultural Criticism

This category recognizes outstanding critical writing on cultural matters. Submit 3-5 critical pieces in any format (television, print, online, audio) by a single writer. These can include but are not limited to commentary on music, theater, dance, television, gaming, architecture, visual art and literature. The opinion/viewpoint of the journalist should be clear.

Food or restaurant reviews should be submitted to the Food/Restaurant Journalism category instead of here.

A single entry may only be entered in one category (i.e. If entering columns here, they cannot also be entered in the General Column Writing category).

1) Print/Online: no more than three elements to a submission

OR

2) Video/Audio: total running time of entry cannot exceed 15 minutes; entry may include multiple parts as long as the time limit is observed.

Entries that exceed the 15-minute limit will be disqualified.


Fact-Checking

This award recognizes excellence in fact-checking on a single subject on any platform. Work may be published in print or online; broadcast on TV or on radio; or shared by other means, such as in a podcast. An audio or video segment may be up to 10 minutes. An online entry should consist of a URL accessible until September 30, 2023. Entries will be judged on originality, significance, depth, sourcing, logic and clarity. Entries may not be submitted in any other category.


Food/Restaurant Journalism

This category recognizes outstanding work in focusing on food and restaurant stories. Submit one piece or series of no more than three by a single writer.

Entries can include anything aired, streamed or published and may include but are not limited to company profiles, trends, features and investigative reports. Critical pieces dealing with food and restaurants are welcome in this category.

A single piece may only be entered in one category (i.e. If entering a story here, it cannot also be entered in either of the Podcast categories).

1) Print/Online: no more than three elements to a submission

OR

2) Video/Audio: total running time of entry cannot exceed 15 minutes; entry may include multiple parts as long as the time limit is observed.

Entries that exceed the 15-minute limit will be disqualified.


Inequalities in Society

This category recognizes outstanding work about systemic racism and/or other examples of inequalities or bias about, but not limited to race, religion or gender identity. Entries can include anything aired, streamed or published.

1) Print/Online: no more than three elements to a submission

OR

2) Television/Audio: total running time of entry cannot exceed 15 minutes; entry may include multiple parts as long as the time limit is observed.

Entries that exceed the 15-minute limit will be disqualified.

Entries will be judged from a variety of journalism organizations including, but not limited to: SPJ, NAHJ, NABJ, RTDNA, NAJA, AAJA, NLGJA, JAWS.

Obituaries

This new category recognizes outstanding work in obituaries and memorial stories.

Entries can include anything aired, streamed or published.

Submit up to three pieces. They do not have to be focused on the same person.

A single piece may only be entered in one category (i.e. If entering a story here, it cannot also be entered in Feature Reporting).

1) Print/Online: no more than three elements to a submission

OR

2) Video/Audio: total running time of entry cannot exceed 15 minutes; entry may include multiple parts as long as the time limit is observed.

Entries that exceed the 15-minute limit will be disqualified.


Regional Political Reporting

This new category recognizes outstanding work focusing on regional politics. 

Entries can include anything aired, streamed or published.

Submit one piece or series of no more than three pieces by a single writer on a single topic.

A single piece may only be entered in one category (i.e. If entering a story here, it cannot also be entered in Feature Reporting).

1) Print/Online: no more than three elements to a submission

OR

2) Video/Audio: total running time of entry cannot exceed 15 minutes; entry may include multiple parts as long as the time limit is observed.

Entries that exceed the 15-minute limit will be disqualified.


Science/Environment/Climate Reporting

This category recognizes outstanding work in science, environmental and/or climate reporting. Entries can include anything aired, streamed or published but should not be an opinion piece.

A single piece may only be entered in one category (i.e. If entering a story here, it cannot also be entered in Investigative Reporting).

1) Print/Online: no more than three elements to a submission

OR

2) Video/Audio: total running time of entry cannot exceed 15 minutes; entry may include multiple parts as long as the time limit is observed.

Entries that exceed the 15-minute limit will be disqualified.


Tech Reporting

This new category recognizes outstanding work focusing on technology.

Entries can include anything aired, streamed or published.

Submit one piece or series of no more than three pieces by a single writer on a single topic.

A single piece may only be entered in one category (i.e. If entering a story here, it cannot also be entered in Feature Reporting).

1) Print/Online: no more than three elements to a submission

OR

2) Video/Audio: total running time of entry cannot exceed 15 minutes; entry may include multiple parts as long as the time limit is observed.

Entries that exceed the 15-minute limit will be disqualified.


Travel Journalism

This category recognizes outstanding work in focusing on travel, including destination reports, industry and trend pieces and personal travel accounts.

Entries can include anything aired, streamed or published.

Submit one piece or series of no more than three pieces by a single writer.

A single piece may only be entered in one category (i.e. If entering a story here, it cannot also be entered in Feature Reporting).

1) Print/Online: no more than three elements to a submission

OR

2) Video/Audio: total running time of entry cannot exceed 15 minutes; entry may include multiple parts as long as the time limit is observed.

Entries that exceed the 15-minute limit will be disqualified.


Categories
Awards MOE-Category

MOE 2022 Categories

Print/Online

Breaking News Reporting

  – Large School Division (10,000+ students)

  – Small School Division (1-9,999 students)

Submit a story or stories written under a next-day deadline about a single breaking news event. Open to print or online pieces.

Entrants must submit a link to the online article or a PDF of the newspaper page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication must be visible.


General News Reporting

  – Large School Division (10,000+ students)

  – Small School Division (1-9,999 students)

Open to print or online pieces.

Submit an article or series about a single news event or issue, not written on next-day deadline. Limit a series to no more than three related stories.

Entrants must submit a link to the online article(s) or series; or PDFs of the newspaper pages on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication must be visible.


In-Depth Reporting

  – Large School Division (10,000+ students)

  – Small School Division (1-9,999 students)

Open to print or online pieces.

Submit a single article or series of no more than three related stories. Entries must use multiple sources to explore the subject in significant depth.

Entrants must submit a link to the online article(s) or series or PDFs of the page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication must be visible.


Feature Writing

  – Large School Division (10,000+ students)

  – Small School Division (1-9,999 students)

Open to print or online pieces.

Submit a single article or a series of no more than three related stories. Entries may be personality profiles, trend stories, human-interest stories or any other type of feature that is not general or breaking news.

Entrants must submit a link to the online article(s) or PDFs of the page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication must be visible.


Sports Writing

  – Large School Division (10,000+ students)

  – Small School Division (1-9,999 students)

Open to print or online pieces.

Submit one sports news or feature story about sports or a sports figure. (Do not enter columns here; columns must be entered in the Sports Column Writing category).

Entrants must submit a link to the online article or a PDF of the pages on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication must be visible.


Editorial/Opinion Writing

Open to print or online pieces.

Submit three individual pieces or packages dealing either seriously or humorously with opinion or commentary. Entries can be personal columns, op-ed pieces or staff editorials. All three pieces must be written by the same writer or writing team. If entries are from a writing team, the award will be made in the name of the team. Entries from print news sources may only be submitted to online categories if there is no print version of the newspaper or magazine.

Three columns = one entry. Upload all three columns as one entry. Do not submit columns separately.

Entrants must submit links to the online editorials or PDFs of the pages on which the editorials appeared. The dates of publication must be visible. Word documents containing the editorials will not be accepted.

Entrants must keep their nominated entries intact and accessible until September 30, 2023.


General Column Writing

  – Large School Division (10,000+ students)

  – Small School Division (1-9,999 students)

Open to print or online pieces.

Submit three published columns by the same writer or writing team. Three columns = one entry. Upload all three columns as one entry. Do not submit columns separately.

Entrants must submit links to the online columns or PDFs of the pages on which the columns appeared in print. The dates of publication must be visible. Word documents containing the columns will not be accepted.


Sports Column Writing

Open to print or online pieces.

Submit three published columns by the same writer or writing team. Three columns = one entry. Upload all three columns as one entry. Do not submit columns separately.

Entrants must submit links to the online columns or PDFs of the pages on which the columns appeared in print. The dates of publication must be visible. Word documents containing the columns will not be accepted.


Corbin Gwaltney Award for Best All-Around Student Newspaper

  – Large School Division (10,000+ students)

  – Small School Division (1-9,999 students)

Named for the Founder of The Chronicle of Higher Education and The Chronicle of Philanthropy, this award celebrates overall excellence in student publications. It includes a $5,000 prize, awarded to the school, for the national winner in each division. Submit three complete PDF issues or e-editions, even if those issues were not distributed in print. Links to websites will not be accepted in this category.


Best Student Magazine

Submit one complete issue published during the 2022 calendar year. Entries should include a cover letter making clear that design and layout were done primarily by students or professionals. Magazines submitted without this letter will be disqualified.

Award will be in the magazine’s name. Only one entry per magazine is permitted.


Best Affiliated Website

This award is for internet sites operated in conjunction with a student newspaper, student magazine or student broadcast station. Entrants must include a cover letter describing how the site’s content and mission differ from and enhance that of its affiliate. Judges will consider design, content, interactivity and use of multimedia tools. Award will be made in the paper, magazine or station’s name.

To qualify as an affiliated site, the site must be connected to a student news organization.

Entrants should include URL links to three specific pages (published in the 2022 calendar year) for the judges to consider.

Entrants must keep their nominated entries intact and accessible until September 30, 2023.


Best Independent Online Student Publication

This award is for online publications and internet sites that produce primarily original content and operate independently of other student news organizations. Entrants must include a cover letter describing the site and how it serves its audience. Judges will consider design, content, interactivity and use of multimedia tools. Award will be made in the outlet’s name.

To qualify as an independent site, the site must have no connection with a student news organization.

Entrants must submit one main URL and up to three additional URLs (in the same domain) to highlight features.

Judging will take place February-April 2023. Websites will be judged on content as presented during this time span.

Entrants must keep their nominated entries intact and accessible until September 30, 2023.


Art/Graphics/Multimedia

Breaking News Photography

For photographs published in a newspaper or magazine or on an online news site.

Submit one photo of a breaking news event.

For groups of photos, please enter in the Photo Essay/Slide Show category.

Entrant must submit a PDF of the newspaper/magazine page on which the photo appeared in print, or a link to the photo published on an online news site with published date noted in a cover letter. The date of publication must be visible.


General News Photography

Submit one photo of a news event, not covered on deadline.

For groups of photos, please enter in the Photo Essay/Slide Show category.

For photographs published in a newspaper or magazine or on an online news site. Entrant must submit a PDF of the newspaper/magazine page on which the photo appeared in print, or a link to the photo published on an online news site. The date of publication must be visible. If it is not, note the published date in a cover letter.


Feature Photography

Submit up to three photos that accompanied a single feature story.

If the story had more than three photos, indicated in a cover letter which three are to be considered.

For larger groups of photos, please enter in the Photo Essay/Slide Show category.

Entrant must submit a PDF of the newspaper/magazine page on which the photo appeared in print, or a link to the photo published on an online news site. The date of publication must be visible. If it is not, note the published date in a cover letter.


Photo Essay/Slideshow

This new award recognizes a photographer or team for a collection of photos packaged together in a single piece. 

The photograph will be judged on technical excellence, newsworthiness and evidence that the photographer(s) exercised unusual diligence and ingenuity.

Entrant should submit a PDF of the newspaper/magazine page on which the photos appeared in print, or a link to the photos published on an online news site. The date of publication should be visible.


Illustration

This new award recognizes newspaper, magazine, newsletter or online news site graphic artist or team for artwork that does not include photographic elements. 

Submit a single illustration.

Clarity, originality, impact and quality of execution will distinguish the work. Entry must be a single graphic. Work designed on computer or by hand is acceptable. 

Entrant should submit a PDF of the marked newspaper/magazine page on which the illustration appeared in print, or a link to the graphic published on an online news site. The date of publication should be visible.


Photo Illustration

For photo illustrations published in a newspaper or magazine or on an online news site, submit a photo, or a short series of no more than five images that have been creatively manipulated. Entries may be staged, composite or otherwise manipulated, but must disclose that to the reader.

Entrant must submit a PDF of the newspaper/magazine page on which the photo illustration appeared in print, or a link to the illustration published on an online news site. The date of publication must be visible. If it is not, note the published date in a cover letter.


Sports Photography

Submit one photo of a sports event published in a newspaper or magazine or on an online news site.

Entrant must submit a PDF of the newspaper/magazine page on which the photo appeared in print, or a link to the photo published on an online news site. The date of publication must be visible. If it is not, note the published date in a cover letter.


Editorial Cartooning

This award recognizes cartoons published in a newspaper or magazine or on an online news site. Submit three different published cartoons commenting on issues of significance to the publication’s readers. All three cartoons must be by the same cartoonist.

Three cartoons = one entry. Upload all three cartoons as one entry. Do not submit cartoons separately.

Entrant must submit a PDF of the newspaper/magazine page on which the cartoon appeared in print, or a link to the illustration published on an online news site. The dates of publication must be visible. If it is not, note the published date in a cover letter.

Animated online cartoons are acceptable but entry must include at least one static cartoon.


Best Use of Multimedia

Submit ONE URL to a multimedia element on a new organization’s website. Multimedia includes — among other things — any piece of reporting that brings together various media, including text, audio, video and other interactive elements. Entrants must include a cover letter describing the piece and how it serves its audience. Judges will consider design, content, interactivity and complexity.

Entrants must keep their nominated entries intact and accessible until September 30, 2023.


News Videography

Submit video of a breaking news event or general news story. This award celebrates the videography, not the reporting.

Entries may not exceed a total of 10 minutes and may be edited for length. Work must have been aired by a campus, public or commercial television station, online outlet, or franchised cable television system.

Entrant must either upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred), or upload a video file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Feature Videography

Submit video of a feature story that may include (but is not limited to) personality profiles, consumer information, historical perspectives, trend stories or reviews of cultural events. This award celebrates the videography, not the reporting.

Entries may not exceed a total of 10 minutes and may be edited for length. Work must have been aired by a campus, public or commercial television station, online outlet, or franchised cable television system.

Entrant must either upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred), or upload a video file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Sports Videography

Submit video of a sports story that may include (but is not limited to) a specific sports event, sports-related activity or personality profile, sidebar. Play-by-play of a sporting event is not eligible. This award celebrates the videography, not the reporting.

Entries may not exceed a total of 10 minutes and may be edited for length. Work must have been aired by a campus, public or commercial television station, online outlet, or franchised cable television system.

Entrant must either upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred), or upload a video file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Data Visualization

This award recognizes a graphic artist or team for outstanding visual representation of data whether in print, online, or via a broadcast outlet

Submit all data visualization elements from a single story.

. Entries will be judged on their newsworthiness, technical merit, originality, overall design and ability to communicate insightful information.

The entry may be dynamic (i.e., interactive) or static (i.e. intended for print). Static entries must be submitted in any of these formats: JPG, GIF, PNG, SVG, PDF or TIFF. If the entry is dynamic (interactive) the entrant should provide a screenshot and hyperlink to the visualization. Max file size is 50 MB. Please be sure to include date of publication.


Audio

Radio News Reporting

Submit a story or series about a newsworthy event or development. Entry may not exceed a total of 10 minutes.

Entries may be edited for length. Work must have been aired by a campus, public or commercial radio station. Work aired on an online radio station is also eligible. Entrant must submit a link to the work online or upload an audio file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All audio files must be .mp3 (preferred), .wav or .aiff format. Audio in other formats will not be accepted.


Radio Feature

Submit a story or series about a feature topic. Subjects may include, but are not limited to, personality profiles, sidebars, consumer information, historical perspectives, trend stories or reviews of cultural events. Entry may not exceed a total of 10 minutes.

Entries may be edited for length. Work must have been aired by a campus, public or commercial radio station. Work aired on an online radio station is also eligible. Entrant must submit a link to the work online or upload an audio file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All audio files must be .mp3 (preferred), .wav or .aiff format. Audio in other formats will not be accepted.


Radio In-Depth Reporting

Submit a story or series about a topic explored in significant depth with multiple sources. Entry may not exceed a total of 10 minutes.

Entries may be edited for length. Work must have been aired by a campus, public or commercial radio station. Work aired on an online radio station is also eligible. Entrant must submit a link to the work online or upload an audio file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All audio files must be .mp3 (preferred), .wav or .aiff format. Audio in other formats will not be accepted.


Radio Sports Reporting

Entries may be either a story or series about a sports topic. Subjects may include, but are not limited to, breaking news or features. Entry may not exceed a total of 10 minutes. Play-by-play of a sporting event is not eligible.

Entries may be edited for length. Work must have been aired by a campus, public or commercial radio station. Work aired on an online radio station is also eligible. Entrant must submit a link to the work online or upload an audio file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All audio files must be .mp3 (preferred), .wav or .aiff format. Audio in other formats will not be accepted.


Best All-Around Radio Newscast

Submit ONE newscast. The entry may not exceed 30 minutes. The newscast may be edited for length. Award will be made in the radio station’s name.

Entries may be edited for length. Work must have been aired by a campus, public or commercial radio station. Work aired on an online radio station is also eligible. Entrant must submit a link to the work online or upload an audio file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All audio files must be .mp3 (preferred), .wav or .aiff format. Audio in other formats will not be accepted.


Podcast (Narrative)

Submit one podcast that constructs a narrative and is not exclusively conversational. Entries must be no more than 30 minutes long and may be edited for length. Entrants may submit up to two files, not to exceed 15 minutes each.

Entrant should upload the work to an online audio or video site and submit the URL (preferred) or upload the file(s) to the awards site [50 MB file limit]. Files must be in one of the following formats: .mp3, .wav, .aiff, .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Podcast (Conversational)

Submit one podcast that primarily consists of conversation. Entries must be no more than 30 minutes long and may be edited for length. Entrants may submit up to two files, not to exceed 15 minutes each.

Entrant should upload the work to an online audio or video site and submit the URL (preferred) or upload the file(s) to the awards site [50 MB file limit]. Files must be in one of the following formats: .mp3, .wav, .aiff, .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Broadcast

Television Breaking News Reporting

Submit a story or series about a breaking news event, aired within 24 hours of the event. Entry may not exceed a total of 10 minutes.

Broadcast or audio entries may be edited for length. Work must have been broadcast by a campus, public or commercial television station or franchised cable television system. Work aired on an internet TV station or streamed on platforms such as YouTube, Twitch and Facebook Live also is eligible, provided an archive of the stream remains accessible until September 30, 2023. 

Entrant must either upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred), or upload a video file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Television General News Reporting

Submit a story or series about a news event or issue, not prepared on a daily deadline. Entry may not exceed a total of 10 minutes.

Broadcast or audio entries may be edited for length. Work must have been broadcast by a campus, public or commercial television station or franchised cable television system. Work aired on an internet TV station or streamed on platforms such as YouTube, Twitch and Facebook Live also is eligible, provided an archive of the stream remains accessible until September 30, 2023. 

Entrant must either upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred), or upload a video file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Television Feature Reporting

Submit a story or series about a feature topic. Subjects may include, but are not limited to, personality profiles, sidebars, consumer information, historical perspectives or reviews of cultural events. Entry may not exceed a total of 10 minutes.

Broadcast or audio entries may be edited for length. Work must have been broadcast by a campus, public or commercial television station or franchised cable television system. Work aired on an internet TV station or streamed on platforms such as YouTube, Twitch and Facebook Live also is eligible, provided an archive of the stream remains accessible until September 30, 2023. 

Entrant must either upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred), or upload a video file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Television In-Depth Reporting

Submit a story or series about a topic or issue of public importance that is explored in significant depth with multiple sources. Entry may not exceed a total of 10 minutes.

Broadcast or audio entries may be edited for length. Work must have been broadcast by a campus, public or commercial television station or franchised cable television system. Work aired on an internet TV station or streamed on platforms such as YouTube, Twitch and Facebook Live also is eligible, provided an archive of the stream remains accessible until September 30, 2023. 

Entrant must either upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred), or upload a video file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Television Sports Reporting

Submit a story or series about a sports topic. Subjects may include, but are not limited to, breaking news or features. Entry may not exceed a total of 10 minutes. Play-by-play of a sporting event is not eligible.

Broadcast or audio entries may be edited for length. Work must have been broadcast by a campus, public or commercial television station or franchised cable television system. Work aired on an internet TV station or streamed on platforms such as YouTube, Twitch and Facebook Live also is eligible, provided an archive of the stream remains accessible until September 30, 2023. 

Entrant must either upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred), or upload a video file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Best All-Around Television Newscast

Submit ONE newscast. The entry may be longer than 30 minutes, but please indicate which 30 minutes the judges will review. A newscast must be produced and aired at least once a week. Award will be made in the organization or television station’s name.

Broadcast or audio entries may be edited for length. Work must have been broadcast by a campus, public or commercial television station or franchised cable television system. Work aired on an internet TV station or streamed on platforms such as YouTube, Twitch and Facebook Live also is eligible, provided an archive of the stream remains accessible until September 30, 2023. 

Transcripts are NOT required to be submitted with each entry, but a rundown of the newscast may be submitted (optional).

Uploading the entry: Entrant must either upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL or upload a video file to the awards site [50 MB file limit]. All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Best All-Around Television News Magazine

Submit ONE segment. It can be longer than 30 minutes, but please indicate which 30 minutes the judges will review. Postproduction editing is allowed. Award will be made in the television station or organization’s name.

Broadcast or audio entries may be edited for length. Work must have been broadcast by a campus, public or commercial television station or franchised cable television system. Work aired on an internet TV station or streamed on platforms such as YouTube, Twitch and Facebook Live also is eligible, provided an archive of the stream remains accessible until September 30, 2023. 

Transcripts are NOT required to be submitted with each entry, but a rundown of the newscast may be submitted (optional).

Uploading the entry: Entrant must either upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL, or upload a video file to the awards site [50 MB file limit]. All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


All Platforms

Arts/Fashion Journalism

This award is for feature or news pieces on the arts or fashion. No reviews, please. Arts or fashion reviews should be submitted to the Cultural Criticism category.

Submit a single piece or a series of no more than three stories.

For print or online stories, entrants must submit a link to the online article or a PDF of the newspaper page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication must be visible. Entrants must keep their nominated entries intact and accessible until September 30, 2023.

Broadcast or audio entries may be edited for length. Work must have been broadcast by a campus, public or commercial television station or franchised cable television system. Work aired on an internet TV station or streamed on platforms such as YouTube, Twitch and Facebook Live also is eligible, provided an archive of the stream remains accessible until September 30, 2023. 

Collaborative Journalism

This category is for two or more unrelated student academic institutions, including university or college journalism programs, that work together on a specific project on any platform(s).

There will be no regional awards. Entries will go directly to national competition. 

Submit links to the project. Entries that fail to provide an active URL will be disqualified. Entries will be judged on newsworthiness, originality, design, content, and clarity.

(For projects in which the reporting/editing teams include anyone with current or past full-time professional journalism experience, please submit to the Sigma Delta Chi Awards contest.)


Cultural Criticism

This award is for critical pieces on cultural matters. Submit 3-5 pieces, whether print, online, audio or television broadcast by a single writer. These can include but are not limited to commentary on music, theater, dance, television, architecture, visual art, and literature. The opinions of the writer should be clear. All pieces do not have to be on a single subject or genre.

Food or restaurant reviews should be submitted to the new Food/Restaurant Journalism category instead of here.

Print entries must include a link to the online article or a PDF of the newspaper page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication must be visible. Entrants must keep their nominated entries intact and accessible until September 30, 2023.

Broadcast or audio entries may be edited for length. Work must have been broadcast by a campus, public or commercial television station or franchised cable television system. Work aired on an internet TV station or streamed on platforms such as YouTube, Twitch and Facebook Live also is eligible, provided an archive of the stream remains accessible until September 30, 2023. 

Entrant must either upload the work to an online video site and submit the URL (preferred), or upload a video file to the awards site. [50 MB file limit] All video files must be one of the following formats: .wmv, .mov, .mpeg or .mp4.


Food/Restaurant Journalism

This award is for features, news reporting, or critical pieces focused on food and/or restaurants. Submit one piece or a series.

Submit a single piece or a series of no more than three stories.

For print or online stories, entrants must submit a link to the online article or a PDF of the newspaper page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication must be visible. Entrants must keep their nominated entries intact and accessible until September 30, 2023.

Broadcast or audio entries may be edited for length. Work must have been broadcast by a campus, public or commercial television station or franchised cable television system. Work aired on an internet TV station or streamed on platforms such as YouTube, Twitch and Facebook Live also is eligible, provided an archive of the stream remains accessible until September 30, 2023. 


Immersion Journalism

This award recognizes immersive journalism, including 360 video, augmented reality or virtual reality. Judges will consider content, ingenuity and how the medium fits the story.

There will be no regional awards. Entries will go directly to national competition. 

Entries should consist of one main URL or respective app. Entrants must keep their nominated entries intact and accessible until September 30, 2023.

Investigative Reporting

This new, national-only award recognizes a reporter or team for investigative reporting of a single event or issue. 

Print entry may be a single article or a series of no more than five articles on the same investigation.

Entrants should submit a link to the online article or a PDF of the page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication should be visible. 

Broadcast or audio entries may be edited for length. Work must have been broadcast by a campus, public or commercial television station or franchised cable television system. Work aired on an internet TV station or streamed on platforms such as YouTube, Twitch and Facebook Live also is eligible, provided an archive of the stream remains accessible until September 30, 2023. 


Retail/Small Business Journalism

This new award is for features, news reporting, or critical pieces involving retail and small businesses.

Competition will be national only with all entries immediately going to national judging.

Submit a single piece or a series of no more than three related stories by a single writer or writing team. 

For print or online stories, entrants must submit a link to the online article or a PDF of the newspaper page on which the story appeared in print. The date of publication must be visible. Entrants must keep their nominated entries intact and accessible until September 30, 2023.

Broadcast or audio entries may be edited for length. Work must have been broadcast by a campus, public or commercial television station or franchised cable television system. Work aired on an internet TV station or streamed on platforms such as YouTube, Twitch and Facebook Live also is eligible, provided an archive of the stream remains accessible until September 30, 2023.


Science/Environment Reporting

This new, national-only category recognizes outstanding work in science/environmental reporting. Entries can include anything aired, streamed or published but should not be an opinion piece.

There will be no regional awards. Entries will go directly to national competition. 

A single piece may only be entered in one category (i.e. If entering a story here, it cannot also be entered in Investigative Reporting).

1) Print/Online: no more than three elements to a submission

OR

2) Video/Audio: total running time of entry cannot exceed 15 minutes; entry may include multiple parts as long as the time limit is observed.

Entries that exceed the 15-minute limit will be disqualified.