News release
2023 Diamond Journalism Awards announced
Contact: Sonny Albarado, contest chair
arkspjcontest@gmail.com
501-551-8811
LITTLE ROCK — Andrew DeMillo of The Associated Press was named the Diamond Journalist of the Year on Tuesday at the annual awards ceremony of the 2023 Diamond Journalism Awards.
A judge called DeMillo’s work “comprehensive without being wordy” and said his “writing has a natural flow to it that carries the reader forward.”
Journalists from any medium can enter the Diamond Journalist of the Year competition by submitting a portfolio of five to seven pieces published or broadcast in the previous calendar year.
The awards were announced during a dinner ceremony in Little Rock. Alan Leveritt, publisher of the Arkansas Times, was guest speaker.
The Diamond Journalism Awards are sponsored by the Arkansas Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists. Entries come from Arkansas and six states that share borders with the Natural State: Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas.
This year’s contest drew 363 entries in more than 80 categories. Members of the Washington, D.C., Chapter of SPJ served as judges.
Proceeds from the competition fund scholarships for students enrolled in college journalism programs who plan a career in the field.
The list of winners and finalists follows.
PROFESSIONAL AWARDS
BREAKING NEWS – PRINT/ONLINE
FINALISTS
Frank Lockwood, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Little Rock: “Elizabeth II mourned in England amid decline of church”
Tess Vrbin, Arkansas Advocate, Little Rock: “Arkansas Senate suspends Clark for ‘frivolous’ complaint”
WINNER
Michael R. Wickline, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: “Abortion ban begins”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Michael R. Wickline quickly provided a thorough and detailed report on a topic with widespread ramifications. He covered numerous angles and answered a significant number of questions that readers may have, all in a fast turnaround. Wickline also gathered a wide and diverse range of voices, providing balanced and objective reporting on a highly divisive topic.
GENERAL NEWS – PRINT/ONLINE
FINALISTS
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: “A Surprising Union”
Jacob Steimer, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism: “A homeless man died outside City Hall. How should the city respond?”
WINNER
Teresa Moss, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Trial coverage of ex-sheriff’s deputy accused of killing teen
JUDGE’S COMMENT: A well-written story that captures the scope of the issue within the first few grafs.
OVERALL COMPETITION COMMENT: All the winners relied upon the intangible skills of journalism, while giving citizens the information they need to make decisions. They demonstrated curiosity, empathy, understanding of implicit biases and tenacity. It is a pleasure to see journalism that touches the conscience of the community.
GENERAL NEWS – AUDIO/VIDEO
FINALISTS
Hannah Campbell, East Arkansas Broadcasters, Jonesboro, AR: Arkansas Now News, evening newscasts
Brett Rains, KHBS/KHOG TV (40/29), Fayetteville, AR: “Teen Loses Friends to Drug Overdose”
WINNER
Ashlei King, Julian Jones, KLRT-FOX16, Little Rock: “Names Not Numbers,”
JUDGE COMMENT: This entry stands out for its respectful, in-depth coverage demonstrating the personal impact of an important local issue. Kudos.
ONGOING COVERAGE – PRINT/ONLINE
FINALIST
Jacob Steimer, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism, Memphis: “Emergency Rental Assistance”
WINNER
Joseph Flaherty, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Coverage of a Little Rock city property deal intended for a homeless shelter
JUDGE’S COMMENT: A classic example of excellent accountability work making a difference, with ample use of FOIA and source documentation to shed light on potential corruption. The writing for this series is crisp, delivering critical information to the community and laying facts at their feet without excess verbiage. The series also demonstrates the power of journalism, with a clear effect from this reporting.
ONGOING COVERAGE- AUDIO/VIDEO
FINALIST
Katie Hamner, Colleen Clement, 40/29 TV Staff, KHBS-KHOG TV: Springdale tornado coverage
WINNER
Chelsea Helms, KNWA News, Fayetteville: Coverage of sexual assault allegations against and subsequent arrest of a Northwest Arkansas doctor
JUDGE’S COMMENT: The level of detail and extensive investigation that went into this story can be seen throughout. This is what following up on a story should be.
ENTERPRISE/IN-DEPTH REPORTING – PRINT/ONLINE
FINALISTS
Jacob Steimer, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism: “Feeling neglected, Parkway Village residents try to rebuild after ‘white flight’”
Ashton Pittman, Mississippi Free Press, Jackson, MS: “Christian Dominionist War on Abortion”
WINNER
Daniel Connolly, reporter; Duane Gang, editor; Ariel Cobbert, Joe Rondone, photographers. The Commercial Appeal, Memphis, and The Tennessean, Nashville: “Big Hurt, Tiny Fines – Tennessee Workers Compensation Investigation”
JUDGE’S COMMENT:
Big Hurt, Tiny Fines shows some very robust reporting. It takes a hard look at the worker’s compensation program from multiple perspectives. He followed the money and the trail of medical records to a doctor hundreds of miles away. His reporting showed how innocuous reprimand can inadvertently do more harm. Finally, Mr. Connolly’s reporting displays ingenuity by showing how time and money can be used and misused to frivolously trap workers into a system that isn’t built to help them win.
ENTERPRISE/IN-DEPTH REPORTING – AUDIO/VIDEO
WINNER
Avery Lea Rogers, Danny Wicentowski, St. Louis Public Radio, St. Louis, MO: “St. Louis has a new basketball court. Its funders were raided by the FBI”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Avery Lea Rogers and Danny Wicentowski provided exhaustive detail into the FBI raid and covered every angle. Their story immediately grabs listeners’ attention by starting with the raid. The pair also made clear attempts to balance the coverage despite one party’s refusal to participate by closely scrutinizing FBI documents. They also included exhaustive interviews that address the claims and detail the African People’s Socialist Party community service, bringing the raid into full perspective. The final interview with a member of the community who would benefit from the new basketball court particularly drives the story home. Rogers and Wicentowski’s story analyzes the situation from an objective lens, showcases the African People’s Socialist Party’s work and giving them room for defense without shying away from serious allegations in an FBI indictment.
INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING – PRINT/ONLINE
FINALISTS
Daniel Connolly, The Commercial Appeal/The Tennessean, “Big Hurt, Tiny Fines” – Tennessee Workers Compensation Investigation
Nick Judin, Mississippi Free Press, Unsafe Conditions In Mississippi Delta Housing
WINNER
Joseph Flaherty, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, LitFest
JUDGE’S COMMENT: The investigation into Little Rock’s Lit Fest was very thorough and meticulous. Mr. Flaherty used public records obtained via FOIA and the “Blue Hog Report” to follow the money and unravel a complicated web of contracts and cronyism. He clearly laid out how Think Rubix’s connection to the mayor’s campaign, while not illegal, can bring forth some complexity that can eat away at public trust. Mr. Flaherty’s relentless reporting ultimately led to more oversight being done on contracts.
EXPLANATORY REPORTING – PRINT/ONLINE
FINALISTS
Bill Bowden, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Disfarmer case
Hunter Field, Arkansas Advocate, Arkansas income tax changes explained
WINNER
Nancy Henderson, Missouri-Kansas Super Lawyers Magazine, “State of the Unions”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Ms. Henderson’s piece really lays out the plight of the unions and where they could be headed. She explained how working during the COVID pandemic exacerbated some issues with worker safety. She also clearly explains how to start unions with informed advice from trusted sources. Henderson provides some insight on how employers can attempt to take down union workers and about retaliation – a third rail topic not typically talked about. Her piece is backed by data and historical facts that show the complexity of starting and maintaining a union. Excellent reporting!
EXPLANATORY REPORTING – AUDIO/VIDEO
WINNER
Kevin Kelly, Stephen Goodale, KLRT-TV/FOX 16, “Road Rage on the Rise”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Kevin Kelly found a compelling and unique angle on a topic that’s swept the nation since the pandemic’s onset. His stories went above and beyond simply reporting on the increase in dangerous and reckless driving, an angle we’ve seen repeatedly over the past few years. Not only did Kelly reveal eye-opening data that showed just how much these life-threatening road rage incidents have risen, he also found captivating stories that encapsulates the terror victims experience during these sorts of shootings. His reports had me glued to the screen, my eyes wide open and mouth agape.
EDITORIALS – PRINT/ONLINE
FINALISTS
Lindsey Castrellon, Arkansas Money & Politics (AY Media Group), Little Rock
David Barham, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
WINNER
Edward Brown , Anthony Mariani, Fort Worth Weekly, Fort Worth, TX, “Taking Care of Business”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Strong community focus. Immoderate language, but contextualized facts and process back up arguments. Calls for action, not just critiquing what’s past.
COMMENTARY – PRINT/ONLINE
FINALISTS
Wendi C. Thomas, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism, “To the Harvard professor who said MLK50 wasn’t ‘viable’: Look at us now”
Carrington Tatum, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism, “Loans got me into journalism. Student debt pushed me out.”
WINNER
Sonny Albarado, Arkansas Advocate, Commentary collection
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Sonny Albarado tackles some of the weightiest issues of our time and their local impact, and he does so clearly, directly and with powerful detail.
COMPETITION COMMENT: These entries illustrate the range of voices, topics and challenges that Arkansas commentators are taking on with style and personality.
FEATURES – NEWSPAPERS
FINALISTS
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, “Twist of Fate”
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, “Mother Goose”
WINNER
Bill Bowden, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, “President Japperson”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Making what some would assume to be a dry subject – the Census – fun with some humor and a lot of information.
COMPETITION COMMENT: A very wide range of entries. A few weren’t really feature articles and so – regretfully in at least one case – I could not award a high score to pieces that obviously required a lot of effort and were well-crafted. They just didn’t qualify as feature stories. I liked the vivid direct quotes in many of the articles. On the other hand, it’s permissible to clean the quotes up a bit – which in some cases should have been more rigorously done. I enjoy features that show why people “”tick.”” Many of these articles accomplished that. Also, as appropriate, flashes of humor or wit – especially as expressed by people in the article – help a lot.”
FEATURES – MAGAZINES
FINALISTS
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for DO SOUTH Magazine, Fort Smith, AR, “The Greatest American Hero”
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for DO SOUTH Magazine, “Soul Food”
WINNER
Sarah Komar, New Lines Magazine, Washington, D.C., “U.S. Army Confronts Mental Health Problems”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Good article on PTSD. Nicely combines the author’s personal experiences with her father – and his views – and a broader picture (historical and current) of PTSD in the military. Writing is overall good, but there’s some awkwardness at points.
COMPETITION COMMENT: Good topics but too often disappointing execution. I wanted to know more, but the articles were already (in many cases) too long, sometimes with minutiae or unneeded detail. Several were written more like term papers than feature articles. Several went too far in trying to capture the “country” feel. And most suffered from a lack of quote clean-up.
FEATURES – ONLINE ONLY
FINALIST
Kelly Connelly, Kristen Siler, Stuttgart Daily Leader, Stuttgart, AR, “2022 North Arkansas County Farm Family of the Year: Jackie and Duffie Banks Family”
WINNER
Grace Marion, Mississippi Free Press, “Batesville Park At Center Of Race Division”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: This writer makes the reader care about the issues surrounding Patton Lane Park by digging into the subject from multiple angles. The story succeeds by including historical context, diverse sources, local government meetings and beautiful images that support the story. The writing and narrative could be more focused at times, but overall a feature with real purpose.
FEATURES – TV/VIDEO
FINALIST
Kevin Kelly, Lauren Swaim, KLRT-FOX 16, “Sharktender”
WINNER
Caitrin Assaf, Lauren Swaim, KARK 4 News, Little Rock, “Man in Black springs a leak”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Really good work on deadline.
Solid writing…great play on (musical) terms & titles; nice angles with video and wonderful local characters!
PROFILES – NEWSPAPERS
FINALISTS
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, “Badges of Honor”
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, “Once a Cowgirl …”
WINNER
Sean Clancy, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, “Harvey Lee Williams and his family own and operate Delta Dirt Distillery”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: The story flows really well. Good description. Loved “looks like a steampunk fantasy.”
PROFILES – MAGAZINES
FINALISTS
Olivia Deffes, 225 Magazine, Baton Rouge, “Sending love down to Baton Rouge”
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for DO SOUTH magazine, “The Boy in the Box”
WINNER
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for DO SOUTH magazine, “Lost & Found”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Well-framed story that utilizes vivid imagery to make its points.
PROFILES – ONLINE ONLY
WINNER
Aliyah Veal, Mississippi Free Press, “One Mother’s Solutions For Gun Violence”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: A sensitive and in-depth profile of a mother who organized assistance for others across the nation whose loved ones were victims of senseless shootings.
PROFILES – TV/VIDEO
FINALISTS
Caitrin Assaf, Lauren Swaim, KARK 4 News, “From Headlocks to Heimlich”
Brett Rains, KHBS/KHOG TV (40/29), Springdale tornado survivors
WINNER
Kevin Kelly, Lauren Swaim, KLRT-FOX16, “A League of Her Own”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: This is what a profile should be. A story that shows who your character is, how they get there and why.
COMPETITION COMMENT: Profiles should tell the story of a or a number of characters, but done in detail. I needed to see that in two of the stories submitted, but it wasn’t accomplished.
PROFILES – RADIO/AUDIO
WINNER
Daniel Breen, KUAR Public Radio, “In Arkansas, slain journalist leaves behind long legacy”
NO JUDGE’S COMMENT
SPORTS – NEWSPAPERS
FINALISTS
Greg Geary, The Daily Citizen, Searcy, AR, “Angler casts aside handicap to become pro”
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for Arkansas Catholic Newspaper, “Near Perfect”
WINNER
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for Arkansas Catholic Newspaper, “P.E. Padre´”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: This was a compelling human interest story. This feature would have been at home at any paper, and certainly reflected the mission of the Catholic paper.
COMPETITION COMMENT: Every entry in this competition was a winner! From top to bottom this was the strongest overall category I’ve ever judged. So those who didn’t win easily could have. Kudos to every entrant.
SPORTS – MAGAZINES
FINALISTS
Mark Clements, 225 Magazine, “The Traveling Tiger”
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for DO SOUTH magazine, “The Long Run”
WINNER
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for AMP Magazine, “Show Me the Money”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: A thorough, fact-filled explainer of how monied interests are paying college athletes.
SPORTS – ONLINE ONLY
WINNER
Torsheta Jackson, Mississippi Free Press, “Legacy of the Black Cowboy in Tunica”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Excellent writing in a story that takes the reader into a movement that would otherwise be hard to know about while also uncovering history otherwise hidden. Covers history and current events succinctly in a way that frames the story historically, which can be hard to do with a word limit.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT COVERAGE – NEWSPAPERS
FINALIST
Greg Geary, The Daily Citizen, Steel Drivers, Super Bowl Actress, Byrnes
WINNER
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, “Dogtown to Tinseltown”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Well written. There’s a single story thread throughout the article.
A&E COVERAGE – MAGAZINES
FINALISTS
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for AY Magazine, Little Rock, “Raising Hell”
Tammy Keith, 501 Life Magazine, Conway, “Space toys and artist”
WINNER
Maggie Heyn Richardson, Olivia Deffes, Zane Piontek, 225 Magazine, Arts collection
NO JUDGE’S COMMENT
A&E COVERAGE – AUDIO/VIDEO
FINALISTS
Paul Ladd, World Christian Broadcasting, Song Searcher Story
Caitrin Assaf, Lauren Swaim, KARK 4 News, Action in AR
WINNER
Skot Covert, Kelly Tibbit, Zach Keast, KTHV-THV11, “Eat It Up”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: “Eat It Up” is thoroughly entertaining AND informative. A tasty selection of foodie issues wrapped around some wonderful story-telling as well. Great pacing, terrific editing!
A&E COVERAGE – ONLINE ONLY
FINALIST
Alexandria Brown, Remington Miller, Nick Popowitch, Thomas Metthe, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, State Fair coverage online
WINNER
Aliyan Veal, Mississippi Free Press, Art Interprets “Great Migration”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Veal’s article covers both the beauty of the art and the cultural importance with great, clear writing, and by picking just enough direct quotes to let the people she covers say the important things that move the story forward.
A&E CRITICISM & REVIEWS – NEWSPAPERS
WINNER
Andrew DeMillo, The Associated Press, Book Reviews
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Deftly handles a range of material fairly and evenly.
A&E CRITICIISM & REVIEWS – ONLINE ONLY
WINNER
Austin Castrellon, AY Magazine, “’Elvis’ Fails to Bring the King Back to Life”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: An EXCELLENT review and critique, that covers all the basis with its analysis, and extremely well written. This piece earns its first place win handily.
BUSINESS – ALL MEDIA
FINALISTS
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for The Trucker Magazine, “Data Pirates”
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for Black Vitality Magazine, “The Good Stuff”
WINNER
Kayode Crown, Mississippi Free Press, Business, Equity and Ethics in Mississippi
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Writer Kayode Crown provides a regular supply of well-written, well-sourced, well-documented and well-illustrated work to put a spotlight on issues important to Mississippi and surrounding states.
EDUCATION – PRINT/ONLINE
FINALISTS
Joel Phelps, arkadelphian.com, Arkadelphia, AR, “School district plans to balance teacher diversity”
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for AMP Magazine, Charter schools in Arkansas
WINNER
Ashton Pitman, Mississippi Free Press, “School: Sharing LGBTQ Identity Fireable Offense”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Compelling and well-executed. The article is to the point and clearly showcases the issues present within the news piece.
EDUCATION – AUDIO/VIDEO
WINNER
Josie Lenora, KUAR Public Radio, “New superintendent talks about the future of the LRSD”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Such a good and thorough interview. Covered all the bases. Very well done.
HEALTH – ALL MEDIA
FINALISTS
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for Do South Magazine, “A League of Their Own”
Nick Judin, Mississippi Free Press, Health and Equity in Mississippi
WINNER
Dwain Hebda, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for The Trucker Magazine, “Mother Trucker Yoga”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Interesting. Well-written. Not over-the-top or hokey. Straightforward with flashes of humor.
COMPETITION COMMENT: Interesting articles showing a wide range of healthcare applications – from traditional to yoga and CrossFit. Also shows the diverse populations that can be served by healthcare efforts. The articles come alive with patients and clients are interviewed.
ENVIRONMENT – ALL MEDIA
FINALIST
Ashli Blow, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism, “Fake testing left South Memphis’ water vulnerable to toxins”
WINNER
Kayode Crown, Mississippi Free Press, Jackson Water Crisis
JUDGE’S COMMENT: The series provides a comprehensive look at Jackson’s devastating water crisis.
POLITICS – PRINT/ONLINE
FINALISTS
Andrew DeMillo, The Associated Press, 2022 Election Coverage
Lisa Hammersly, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Campaign Finance Reporting
WINNER
Jacob Steimer, Carrington Tatum, Brittany Brown, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism, Municipal race 2022
JUDGE’S COMMENT: In this package MLK50 showed great respect for journalistic guidelines per SPJ; they make it clear what they’re doing, and why, when it comes to not naming sources. Further, the quality of the reportage (and the time invested in it) floored me. The amount of work hours that go into these stories is clearly pretty high. Their reporters have a superpower of latching onto information other reporters might pass over, and then combine them all to create nuanced and informative journalism.
POLITICS – AUDIO/VIDEO
FINALIST
Daniel Breen, NPR, “Sarah Huckabee Sanders is expected to win Republican primary for Arkansas governor”
WINNER
Josie Lenora, KUAR Public Radio, “Democratic Party of Arkansas delays choosing a new chair during emotional meeting”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Good job capturing the emotions of the meeting. Solid presentation.
SPECIAL SECTION/NICHE PUBLICATION
FINALISTS
Staff, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, ADG Voter Guide
Dwain Hebda, Mandy Keen, YA!MULE WORDSMITHS for Arkansas Times, Arkansas Wild
WINNER
Aliyah Veal, DeAnna Tisdale Johnson, Acacia Clark, Kristin Brenemen, Donna Ladd, Mississippi Free Press, Hinds County: Crime, Safety and Solutions
JUDGE’S COMMENT: This is a remarkably strong entry full of both tragedy and inspiration. Every article is strong. Particularly impressive were Aliyah Veal’s three articles on the unfathomable homicide rate in Jackson, with dramatic, depressing articles of dilapidated housing; on the inspirational former inmate who set up a foundation to provide housing and other support for women transitioning from prison; and her rich profile of Not Another Child founder Oresa Napper-Williams. Finally, powerful, moving work by Deanna Tisdale Johnson depicting the tragic death of Oren D’Lonte Anderson and his life that ended in violence, a life filled with love and trouble. Overall, this is such impressive journalism about people, events, and communities that are too often ignored by the mainstream media. Congratulations to all reporters, editors, researchers, and photographers who produced such important work!
COMPETITION COMMENT: Strong entries produced tough competition that led to difficult judging choices. The deep look at poverty, crime, and housing problems in Hinds County stood head and shoulders above the other entries in the depth and breadth of its reporting along with its powerful visual presentation. It was all the more impressive in having been reported and written by young journalists. As a nature and travel enthusiast, I can say that the Arkansas Wild magazine was better than most similar ones I’ve seen from other states, with more helpful and interesting information. For my third-place pick, it was a tough choice between the Arkansas Voter Guide and Blueprint. In the end, I selected the voter guide because of how important such guides are at this critical, fragile point in our democracy. If possible, I’d like to recommend an Honorable Mention award to “Blueprint” for its fine job covering the variety of technical jobs available with information that was both interesting and practical. Overall, this was an impressive group of contest entries.
PODCASTS – ALL MEDIA
FINALIST
J. Bradley Minnick, Mary Ellen Kubit, Joseph Fuller, KUAR Public Radio, Arts & Letters
WINNER
Rex Nelson, Nick Popowitch, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Southern Fried Podcast
JUDGE’S COMMENT: The selected podcasts displayed deep knowledge of state politics, business, and film/arts, very interesting even to a non-Arkansan. Sound quality was fine. Felt very authentic.
BREAKING NEWS PHOTOGRAPHY – ALL MEDIA
FINALIST
Thomas Metthe, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Davis Trial
WINNER
Staci Vandagrif, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Fatal Shooting At Hospital
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Great work!
GENERAL NEWS PHOTOGRAPHY – ALL MEDIA
FINALIST
Greg Geary, The Daily Citizen, Apartment fire in Searcy
WINNER
Thomas Metthe, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Memorial Day
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Excellent shots!
FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHY – ALL MEDIA
FINALISTS
Greg Geary, The Daily Citizen, Showing Their Colors
Jenn Terrell, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, “Lakeisha Edwards: Art Ventures director believes art is for everyone”
WINNER
Thomas Metthe, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Splash Pad
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Fabulous photograph. The composition is great, with a group of boys but the focus is on the one who is embracing the moment.
COMPETITION COMMENT: There were at least seven entries that should have won awards in this category. These three winners stood out though. Two for the effect that water had on the photo and one as an outstanding example of portrait photography.
PHOTO SPREAD/ESSAY – ALL MEDIA
FINALISTS
Lukas Flippo, Mississippi Free Press, “Latinx LGTBQ Mississippians Hold ‘Queerceanera’”
Kelli Bozeman, Hoa Vu, Jordan Hefler, Collin Richie, Sean Gasser, InRegister Magazine, Baton Rouge, LA, “A Day in the Life of the Arts”
WINNER
Andrea Morales, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism, “AT THE ROOT: What Cristina Condori taught us”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Great job all around!
PHOTO PORTFOLIO – ALL MEDIA
FINALISTS
Colin Murphey, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Thomas Metthe, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
WINNER
Staci Vandagriff, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Staci captured pure, raw emotion in every picture. Each image told a story effortlessly.
COMPETITION COMMENT: This year, it was a tight competition, and everyone put together outstanding portfolio submissions. It was not an easy category to judge based on the talent on display, and everyone who entered should be proud of what they accomplished.
FRONT PAGE/COVER DESIGN – MAGAZINES
FINALIST
Staff, 225 Magazine, Baton Rouge
WINNER
Kelli Bozeman, Hoa Vu, InRegister Magazine, Bold Faced, A Day in the Life of the Arts, Shore Things
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Fabulous, excellent covers. Each cover conveyed something very different and they were all three compelling. I want a subscription!
COMPETITION COMMENT: This category only had two entries and both would have been deserving of awards had there been 10. The inRegister covers were among the best magazine covers I’ve seen. Great job.
PAGE DESIGN – MAGAZINES
FINALISTS
Mike Bedgood, AY Magazine, “True Colors”
Mike Bedgood, AY Magazine, “Painting the Town”
WINNER
Lora Puls, AMP Magazine, “Elbow Room”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: This is a beautiful layout, allowing the wonder of the wildnerness set the scene. It set a peaceful, pleasant scene. Smart move to preserve the full image behind – and through – the text. Skillfully done.
STUDENT AWARDS
SPECIAL PROJECTS
WINNER
Sarah Smythe, The Echo (University of Central Arkansas, Conway), “UCA giving out expired KN95 masks”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Great example of accountability journalism and excellent deployment of staff to tackle the investigatory process.
BREAKING NEWS
WINNER
Madison Ogle, The Echo, “Three dead, one injured in series of Conway shootings”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Madison Ogle’s coverage for UCAnews.live of a shooting in a campus neighborhood quickly wrapped up a fast-developing situation that was of potential danger to the campus community.
GENERAL NEWS
FINALISTS
Emily Kennard, The Echo, “Students arrested for trans rights protest at school board meeting”
Sarah Komar, The Traveler (University of Arkansas, Fayetteville) “Where are the Workers” Labor Shortage Special Coverage
WINNER
Josh Archote, Reveille and lsureveille.com (Louisiana State University) “An LSU Greek Life mystery: fake names and potential entrapment?”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: The reporter demonstrates impressive investigative journalism skills. The abuse of power angle is newsworthy and has implications beyond LSU’s campus. Overall great sourcing, writing, story pace and supporting documents. Well done.
FEATURES
FINALISTS
Aria Pons, Tiger TV (LSU), “More Than Meets The Eye”
Will Nickel, Reveille and lsureveille.com, “How much do LSU football players eat? I ate an offensive lineman’s diet to find out”
WINNER
Ava Borskey, Tiger TV, “Azaleas and Buddy Lee”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: A nicely done piece. Buddy has a good personality, and that comes through. The subject is one that interests a lot of people (plants, planting, landscaping), but the behind-the-scenes work to create new plants isn’t familiar to many people. The editing and matching of narration with the visuals are good. Although the narrator at times sounds a bit scripted, her bright cheerful voice is a good fit for the subject matter.
COMPETITION COMMENT: Many well-chosen, interesting topics. These three stand out for good execution and for understanding that a feature requires a mix of news/facts and human interest/a “lighter” touch than hard news. The top-ranked features also had a clear conclusion and answered the question “why?” Plus, they were enjoyable to read or watch.
SPORTS
FINALISTS
Connor Barney, Reveille and lsureveille.com, “Wonder Women: LSU female athletes”
Patricia Caputo, KLSU 91.1 FM, Baton Rouge, LSU tennis player Safiya Carrington interview
WINNER
Patricia Caputo, Liam Haley, KLSU, LSU swimmer Spencer Adrian interview
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Direct questioning by podcast hosts led to a compelling story about LSU swimmer Spencer Adrian’s experience as a member of a Denver college swim team.
COMPETITION COMMENT: This category included audio, video and print entries that illustrate the variety of ways sports stories can be told effectively.
EDITORIALS
FINALIST
Courtney Shepherd, The Echo, “Media restrictions for college athletes strain relationship”
WINNER
Reveille Editorial Board, Reveille and lsureveille.com
JUDGE’S COMMENT: The Reveille Editorial Board took bold stands in their editorials. Their well-written and well-researched editorials showed they are not afraid to call out university officials when necessary. They are a shining example of student journalists unafraid to speak on issues of concern to their communities.
COMPETITION COMMENT: The entries in the student journalist editorial category show that student publications are not afraid to challenge college officials when it comes to important issues on their campuses. They directly stated their views and did not hesitate to criticize college staff and administrators if student journalists felt they were wrong on the issues.
COMMENTARY
FINALISTS
Henry Huber, Reveille and lsureveille.com, Sports Columns
Brandon Poulter, Reveille and lsureveille.com, Columns
WINNER
Claire Sullivan, The Echo, Columns
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Claire Sullivan pulled me into each essay with her commanding use of descriptive language, personal/intimate tone, strategic use of facts – all critical to storytelling and column writing. I especially liked the way she placed herself inside each piece of writing, helping the reader to appreciate the importance of the topic to her but quietly inviting them to locate in their minds or in their lives their own intimacy with the topic. And while each was personal, she connected with the universal, making the work relevant to everyone who cares. She has a real talent.
A&E COVERAGE
WINNER
Katy-Ann McDonald, Reveille and lsureveille.com, “Valuable African American Poetry collection finds new home in Hill Memorial Library Special Collections”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: This article could have been as flat as a press release, but McDonald reached out for the meaning of books, and this collection, from both the donor and the recipient. She made us see the value. Nicely done with strong writing and good depth.
A&E CRITICISM/REVIEWS
WINNER
Courtney Shepherd, Delaney Van Wilpe, Anna Yanosick, The Echo, Entertainment Reviews
JUDGE’S COMMENT: The three writers offer both unique and informed perspectives on their respective topics. The first entry offered a telling look at Gen Z’s view of school shootings, the second shed light on what Drake’s lyrics say about his real life actions, and the Wendy’s review was unexpected but fun. I hope all three continue to review and share their perspectives on what they are passionate about.
BUSINESS
FINALIST
Ally Kadlubar, Tiger TV, “Lip Smackin’”
WINNER
Bennett Tinnermon, Emilee Hagewood, The Echo, “UCA professor offers bonus points for fake reviews”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: This story took a lot of information-gathering from different sources, and leveraged it to highlight a possible ethical issue on campus. That’s what student journalism is meant to do! Additionally, the reporters took great care to report only what they could observe and not to imply or state anything further.
EDUCATION
FINALIST
Piper Hutchinson, Reveille and lsureveille.com, “The Reveille digs into maintenance problems on the LSU campus”
WINNER
Mia Waddell, The Echo, “African/African American studies given two-year extension”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Excellent accountability reporting. Well-sourced overview of a significant issue on campus. Dense and informative without being complicated. Writer did an excellent job juggling all facets of the story.
NEWS PHOTO
WINNER
Madison Ogle, The Echo, Five news photos
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Nice Composition. Keep practicing.
FEATURE PHOTO
WINNER
Madison Ogle, The Echo, “A couple sit together on a ride at UCA’s Fall Fest”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Great moment!
PHOTO SPREAD/ESSAY
WINNER
Maci England, The Echo, Homecoming game proposal
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Well done! Great capture.
PHOTO PORTFOLIO
FINALISTS
Madison Ogle, The Echo, Fan Yelling
Madison Ogle, The Echo, Shooting Aftermath
WINNER
Madison Ogle, The Echo, Glow Rage
JUDGE’S COMMENT: This picture perfectly captures the fun and excitement of an on campus student paint night.
COMPETITION COMMENT: The Echo photographer did a great job documenting campus and community life. The photographer showed a strong command of lighting, and an ability to capture the heart of the story in pictures.
GRAPHICS/ILLUSTRATIONS
FINALISTS
Madison Ogle, The Echo, “Russia sends valentine to Ukraine”
Madison Ogle, The Echo, “Sarah Huckabee Sanders takes office”
WINNER
Madison Ogle, The Echo, “Rams win the Superbowl”
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Memorable illustration style with strong personality and atmosphere. Wonderful work!
DESIGN
FINALISTS
Courtney Shepherd, Mia Waddell, The Echo, Senior Columns
Madison Ogle, The Echo, Football Conference Champions
WINNER
Mia Waddell, Bennett Tinnermon, The Echo, Homecoming edition
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Impressive design work with high contrast and appealing color palette.
SPECIAL AWARDS
GARRICK FELDMAN COMMUNITY JOURNALISM AWARD
FINALISTS
Rick Kron, Leader newspapers, Jacksonville, AR
Greg Geary, The Daily Citizen, Searcy, AR
WINNER
Unsafe conditions in Mississippi Delta housing, Nick Judin, Mississippi Free Press, Jackson, MS
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Judin’s work is the kind of incisive and insightful reporting one hopes for from local reporting. I was deeply impressed by Nick’s empathetic writing and aggressiveness in chasing the story.
OVERALL COMPETITION COMMENT: This was difficult. All three journalists here are talented and deserve recognition. But Judin’s work, and the impact it appears to have had, swung me. There’s a good chance that his writing has made positive changes in the lives of the renters he covered, and making such a positive impact is a rare but vital role for local journalism to play.
CHARLOTTE TILLAR SCHEXNAYDER PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD
FINALISTS
Arkansas public defenders, Will Langhorne, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Little Rock
Mississippi Trusted Elections Project, Ashton Pittman, William Pittman, Donna Ladd, Mississippi Free Press
WINNER
Evictions in Memphis, Jacob Steimer, Mikhaila Markham, Andrea Morales, Brittany Brown, Wendi C. Thomas, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism, Memphis
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Logical flow and organization of the article. Very important topic, and the reporter and paper put a lot of work into actually watching the judges to identify the variability in how they handled evictions and tenants. The printing of the photos of the judges made the point that the range of treatment by the judges wasn’t based (solely) on racism – an important element of the story. An attempt even was made to identify why ERA2 funds weren’t applied for. There are a few holes in the story: Why would landlords choose to turn down payment of up to 12 months of back rent? Overall, this article represents an excellent handling and coverage of the issue of evictions, steps that can address the problem, the functioning of the court system, and the grinding wheels of bureaucracy.
OVERALL COMPETITION COMMENT: Excellent entries, each addressing issues critical to the citizens served by the publications . . . and to the functioning of democracy. Each was interesting and well-written. The element that was comparatively weak in several of the entries was answering the question “Why?” The entries all demonstrated a great amount of research in establishing the problem and identifying an immediate cause of the problem. But they could have been stronger had they delved a bit more deeply into why the problems existed. It was great to see the solid work being done by journalists today. The citizens served by those publications will benefit in multiple ways.
ROBERT S. MCCORD FOI AWARD
WINNER
Fighting For Public Access to Mississippi Legislature, Nick Judin and Donna Ladd, Mississippi Free Press
JUDGE’S COMMENT: The Mississippi Free Press’ coverage of and challenge to this artful and dangerous removal of the public business from the public eye is nothing less than inspiring. This is something that state government reporters and other journalists nationwide should be watching. It’s particularly important in this time when one party dominates so many state legislatures, and we know knowledge on how to retain power is being traded around the nation. The Mississippi Free Press could have just gone on getting some stories as best it could. But instead it fought a battle that needed to be fought.
COMPETITION COMMENT: I wish that there had been more entries. But the Mississippi entry was such an important piece that I still felt it should obviously be awarded.
OUTSTANDING NEW JOURNALIST
(This award is given to a journalist who has worked 5 years or fewer for their outlet)
FINALIST
Aliyah Veal, Mississippi Free Press
WINNER
Chelsea Helms, KNWA-TV, Fayetteville, AR
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Concise, crisp, engagingly written and edited. Storytelling that draws the viewer in. Quality one would expect to find in a much larger media market. Intelligent, professional and meaningful journalism that seeks to educate, enlighten and improve the community.
OVERALL COMPETITION COMMENT: The top two contenders are both outstanding journalists. I was ordered to pick one, so I did. My feeling is that both these young ladies will go far.
DIAMOND JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR
FINALIST
Nick Judin, Mississippi Free Press
WINNER
Andrew DeMillo, The Associated Press, Little Rock
JUDGE’S COMMENT: Excellent writing. Comprehensive without getting wordy. This reporter’s writing has a natural flow to it that carries the reader forward. Thoroughly professional and deserving of a first place award.
Society of Professional Journalists | Arkansas Pro Chapter 
