Warwick Sabin and Heather Baker to be featured as special guests; $15,000 to be awarded for A-Mark Prize for Investigative Journalism
LITTLE ROCK — The Arkansas Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists will present the Diamond Journalism Awards banquet on Saturday, July 25, at Next Level Events in downtown Little Rock, featuring a keynote conversation between Warwick Sabin, president and CEO of Deep South Today, and Heather Baker, president and publisher of AY Media Group.
Sabin leads Deep South Today, a nonprofit network of local newsrooms that includes The Current, Mississippi Today, Verite News and Arkansas Today, which is scheduled to launch in fall 2026. His career spans journalism, public service, philanthropy and nonprofit leadership. He served three terms in the Arkansas House of Representatives from 2013 to 2019.
Baker has worked in the publishing industry for more than 25 years. Under her leadership, AY Media Group has grown into one of the region’s most recognized media organizations. She is also a prominent media personality and influencer whose work spans print, digital and broadcast media, as well as numerous philanthropic initiatives.
The Diamond Journalism Awards will recognize winners and finalists in more than 80 categories, showcasing exceptional journalism from Arkansas and neighboring states. Winners of the A-Mark Prize for Investigative Journalism, which carries $15,000 in prize money, will also be announced. This year’s finalists are Chris Fulton of the Mountain Home Observer and Josh Snyder of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.
“This year’s contest was our most competitive to date, and we can’t wait to recognize the outstanding work being produced in Arkansas and throughout the region,” said Sarah Campbell-Miller, Arkansas SPJ president. “Warwick brings a unique perspective on the future of local journalism, and pairing him with media leader Heather Baker will create a dynamic conversation to cap off an evening dedicated to celebrating excellence in journalism.”
The 2026 contest drew 591 entries across more than 80 categories, including divisions for professional journalism, student journalism and communications. SPJ members from Connecticut judged the competitions.
This year’s emcee will be Sonseeahray Tonsall, KARK 4 News at Noon anchor. Throughout her award-winning journalism career, Tonsall has covered some of the nation’s most significant stories, from natural disasters and political conventions to investigative reports that have driven meaningful change in local communities. Back in Arkansas for a second stint at KARK, she remains committed to uncovering the truth, telling stories with integrity, and serving viewers across the state.
The Diamond Awards ceremony will be held at Next Level Events, 1400 W. Markham St. in Little Rock. Dinner will be served at 5 p.m., and the program will begin immediately following. Tickets are $35 per person, and you can purchase them here.
AY Media Group is this year’s presenting sponsor, and the event is also sponsored by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, the University of Memphis Department of Journalism and Strategic Media, and Crafton Tull. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available; contact Arkansas SPJ to learn more.
Finalists are listed below in alphabetical order by first name in each division. If multiple entries are finalists but are credited in the same manner, the entry credit is listed only once per division. To see the finalists listed by organization in addition to name, click here.
Second annual A-Mark Prize offers $15K in cash for Arkansas investigative reporting
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Arkansas SPJ is proud to announce the opening of the 2026 Diamond Journalism Awards. The annual contest is open to professional and student journalists, freelancers and communications professionals.
The contest is open to residents of Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas, and entries can be submitted through March 18.
For the second year, the A-Mark Prize for Investigative Reporting will recognize excellence in investigative reporting with an Arkansas connection. Through Arkansas SPJ’s partnership with the A-Mark Foundation, $15,000 in cash will be distributed to reporters and their newsrooms.
A-Mark winners will receive:
First place: $5,000 for the writer(s), plus $2,500 for the newsroom
Second place: $3,000 for the writer(s), $1,500 for the newsroom
Third place: $2,000 for the writer(s), $1,000 for the newsroom
“The A-Mark Prize was established by the A-Mark Foundation to recognize the best investigative reporting in each state,” said A-Mark Foundation Chief Operating Officer Tracey DeFrancesco. “Arkansas SPJ did an excellent job launching the Prize in Arkansas last year, and the quality of the winning reporting in year one set a high bar. As we enter year two, we are excited to see the Prize grow and to award more outstanding investigative work.”
The A-Mark Prize is the only Diamond Journalism Awards category limited to entries with an Arkansas connection, which means one or more of the following: (1) The winning reporter is based in Arkansas; (2) The newspaper or media outlet is based in Arkansas; or (3) The work covers Arkansas.
“We are excited to again offer the A-Mark Prize for Investigative Reporting through the A-Mark Foundation,” said Wendy Jordan, Arkansas SPJ president. “We are grateful for this continued partnership with the A-Mark Foundation as we join together to support journalism that holds those in power accountable.”
All Diamond Journalism Awards entries must be published or broadcast in 2025. There are more than 85 categories in 10 divisions, ranging from traditional print and broadcast content to podcasts, communications campaigns and more. Find all of the contest categories here.
Although entrants do not have to be members of SPJ, joining the organization offers more benefits than contest entry fee discounts. If you’re interested in joining, click here.
A-Mark Prize for Investigative Reporting (Division 10)
SPJ Members and Nonmembers: $40
The Diamond Journalism Awards uses the Better BNC contest management platform for entries and judging and fees are submitted through PayPal. All finalists will be recognized at the Diamond Awards event in July in Little Rock. A listing of finalists will be announced prior to the event. Click here to get started.
ABOUT ARKANSAS SPJ: The Arkansas Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) is dedicated to advancing the interests of journalists in the state through professional development, First Amendment advocacy, and education. SPJ also supports Arkansas journalism students through scholarships and programs. Learn more at arkansasspj.org.
ABOUT THE A-MARK FOUNDATION: A-Mark Foundation is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit incorporated in 1997. The A-Mark Foundation supports and promotes investigative reporting, defined as a form of journalism that uncovers information deliberately hidden from the public, often involving abuse of power, corruption, wrongdoing, or systemic failure, through original research, document analysis, data collection, and firsthand reporting, rather than relying primarily on official statements or press releases. Grantees are funded through the A-Mark Prizes for Investigative Reporting (42), presented by state press groups; A-Mark Journalism Master’s Scholarships (23), presented by universities; and A-Mark Student Journalism Awards (12), presented by community colleges. For more information, visit amarkfoundation.org.
Arkansas SPJ announces 2025 Diamond Awards winners at annual banquet
Jessica Ranck, KARK/Fox16 receives first place A-Mark Prize; Rex Nelson, Heather Baker share message of inspiration for journalists
LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists recognized the best of journalism Saturday evening during the 2025 Diamond Journalism Awards presented by AY Media Group. In addition to recognizing finalists and winners in nearly 80 categories with more than 125 in attendance, the inaugural A-Mark Prize for Investigative Reporting was awarded to three Central Arkansas journalists.
The A-Mark Prize, sponsored by the A-Mark Foundation, was added this year to recognize exceptional investigative reporting in Arkansas. The A-Mark Foundation and Arkansas SPJ presented $15,000 to three winners, recognizing both the reporters and their newsrooms.
Jessica Ranck of KARK and FOX16 received first place for her “Corruption in Van Buren County” investigation. She received $5,000 and her newsroom received $2,500.
Matt Campbell of the Arkansas Times, was awarded second place for his reporting titled “Politics, not inmates, the primary concern in Arkansas’s prison system.” He received $3,000 and the Arkansas Times received $1,500.
Chris Fulton of the Mountain Home Observer received third place for his investigative reporting series titled “‘Evil but Smart’: Branson contractor’s victims speak out” and was awarded $2,000. The Observer received $1,000.
Additional special awards included Arkansas SPJ’s top honor of Diamond Journalist of the Year, which was presented to Bobby Ross Jr. of the Christian Chronicle based in Oklahoma City. The event’s Future of Journalism sponsor, the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, awarded the Student Journalist of the Year award to Caleb Jarreau of The Daily Beacon of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
The keynote conversation between Heather Baker, president and publisher of AY Media Group, and Rex Nelson, senior editor of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, delivered a message of encouragement for a new generation of journalists and offered insights from their extensive and impressive careers in the industry.
“I was honored to appear as co-keynote for the Arkansas SPJ Diamond Journalism Awards with my good friend Rex Nelson,” Baker said. “Journalism and publishing thrive in Arkansas as it does nowhere else in the country. It was a pleasure to address the crowd about matters facing the industry. Rex and I share an optimism for the future of media and it was wonderful to be able to share that with the outstanding professionals in the audience.”
This year’s contest drew 704 entries and was judged by the SPJ members from Connecticut. Divisions spanned professional journalism, student journalism, and communications. Emmy-winning FOX 16 Good Day Morning Anchor, Ashlei King was this year’s emcee.
“Arkansas SPJ is thrilled to not only recognize the best journalism from across the region, but to partner with the A-Mark Foundation for this amazing award is invaluable,” said Wendy Jordan, Diamond Awards co-chair and president of Arkansas SPJ. “The evening’s keynote conversation was exactly what we needed — a reminder of why we do what we do from Heather and Rex, who are two of the best in the industry. We are very proud of all of the winners and finalists and their exceptional work.”
Other awards presented by Arkansas SPJ included recognizing David Keith as the 2025 Diamond Educator of the Year. After a lengthy career in reporting and then teaching at the University of Central Arkansas, Keith recently retired, but leaves behind a legacy of excellence in mentorship.
University of Central Arkansas journalism students were also recognized for their work in conjunction with Arkansas SPJ on the Faulkner County FOIA audit, which included testing FOIA compliance of 16 Faulkner County agencies. These students were honored with the Friends of FOIA award for their work gaining experience with “the people’s right” to access public records.
In addition to presenting sponsor AY Media Group, the 2025 Diamond Journalism Awards event was sponsored by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, the Mountain Home Observer, the University of Arkansas, Crafton Tull and the States Newsroom (Arkansas Advocate and Tennessee Lookout). The annual contest will begin accepting entries for the 2026 competition in January.
A complete list of winners and finalists across all categories is below.
A-MARK PRIZE FOR INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING IN ARKANSAS
First Place: Jessica Ranck, KARK and FOX16, Corruption in Van Buren County
Second Place: Matt Campbell, Arkansas Times, Politics, not inmates, the primary concern in Arkansas’s prison system
Third Place: Chris Fulton, Mountain Home Observer, ‘Evil but Smart’: Branson contractor’s victims speak out
SPECIAL AWARDS
Robert S. McCord FOI Award
WINNER: Ellen Kreth, Shannon Hahn, Ellen Kreth, Ellen Kreth, Ellen Kreth, Ellen Kreth, The Madison County Record, Sheriff says homicide investigation underway
FINALIST:Grant Lancaster, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Netflix’s “Unlocked: Jail Experiment” series
STUDENT JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR
WINNER: Caleb Jarreau, The Daily Beacon
EMERGING JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR
WINNER: Audrey Jackson, The Christian Chronicle
FINALIST: Chris Fulton, Mountain Home Observer
CHARLOTTE TILLAR SCHEXNAYDER PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD
WINNER: Jacob Steimer, Mikhaila Markham, Andrea Morales, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism, Memphis’ lead crisis
FINALISTS: Lucas Dufalla, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Helena-West Helena water woes
40/29 News Staff, 40/29 News, Rogers tornado: “I could hear the hail above my head”
Explanatory Reporting
WINNER: Kevin Kelly, Julian Jones, KLRT Fox 16 News, The one percent
FINALIST: Laura Monteverdi, Alexis Burch, KARK 4 News/www.kark.com, Carry to term
News Feature
WINNER: Donna Terrell, KLRT Fox16 News, Last Text Goodbye
FINALISTS: Kayla Davis, KFSM 5News, Garfield man stranded by storms rescued by community members
Caitrin Assaf, KARK 4 News, “Little Rock’s Own Haunted Mansion”
Profiles
WINNER: Whitney Thomas, Stephen Goodale, KARK TV, Maumelle Charter student beats odds
FINALISTS: Laura Monteverdi, John Matthews, KARK 4 News/www.kark.com, Arkansas family finds healing 10 years after tornado
Caroline Derby, Kwasi Harshaw, FOX 16 News, A New Wave of Activism
Weather
WINNER: Skot Covert, KFSM, May 26 tornadoes
FINALIST: Darby Bybee, 40/29 News Staff, KHBS/KHOG, Get to your safe spot now!
Sports Feature
WINNER: Tylisa Hampton, John Matthews, KARK 4 News, Arkansas 10-year-old gymnast dreams of competing at the Olympics
FINALISTS: Brittany Tarwater, WVLT News, Swim For Ben
Micah Fletcher, Cherokee Phoenix, Generations of dirt tracking: Muskrat continues family’s racing legacy
Crime/Justice
WINNER: Kevin Kelly, KLRT Fox 16 News, I-40: The drug pipeline
FINALISTS: WVLT Staff, WVLT News, Manhunt for McCowan’s killer
Kimberly Rusley, Steven Bui, KFDM 6, Buna murder suspect arrested
Newscast
WINNER: Kimberely Blackburn, KLRT Fox16, Vilonia: A look back
FINALISTS: Michael Aaron, Mike Nielsen, KFSM, After the storm: Resilience and recovery in Northwest Arkansas
WVLT Staff, WVLT News, WVLT News at 6
News Special
WINNER: Micah Fletcher, Cherokee Phoenix, Veterans, families reel’em in at CN fishing event
FINALISTS: Kimberely Blackburn, Bob Clausen, Donna Terrell, Laura Monteverdi, Ashlei King, Ronni Romero, KLRT Fox16 & KARK 4 News, Veterans Voices: Honoring Arkansas Veterans
UATV Staff, UATV, UATV election coverage
Education
WINNER: Lauren Motley, KNWA/FOX24 Fayetteville, West Fork Schools alumni return for band director’s final concert
FINALISTS: Seth Parenteau, NewsWatch Ole Miss, EDHE in classes
Mattison Gafner, Stephen Goodale, KARK 4 News, Bryant HS Senior wins prestigious award
Politics
WINNER: Samantha Boyd, Stephen Goodale, KARK 4 News, Secretary of State’s office prepares to count petition signatures
FINALISTS: Gabe Evans, NewsWatch Ole Miss, Election day
Hannah Baker, NewsWatch Ole Miss, Voting in Oxford
Arts & Entertainment
WINNER: Maddi Phipps, UATV, Ukulele Society
FINALISTS: Lauren Motley, KNWA/FOX24 Fayetteville, Alma students develop indie video game Rayadium
Stacie Boston, Cherokee Phoenix, Forging a passion: Terrapin’s journey into the art of knife making
SPECIAL TOPICS – ALL MEDIA
Health
WINNER: Katti Gray, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism, Health in Memphis
FINALISTS: Dwain Hebda, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths for Mental Health Guide, The mind as medicine
Remington Miller, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Mental health care professionals prioritize affirmative care; It’s the heat AND the humidity; Christmas not always merry; Outreach efforts aim to prevent suicides
Business
WINNER: Cristina LaRue, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, ‘Micro-agriculture’; Low Mississippi slows barge traffic; More farmers interested in pesticide drones; U.S. Army veteran opens market; Circuit judge grants facility testing
FINALISTS: Dwain Hebda, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths for Ay Magazine, The new speakeasy
Sarah DeClerk, Arkansas Money & Politics, A bigger boom
Religion
WINNER: Erik Tryggestad, Ted Parks, Bobby Ross Jr., The Christian Chronicle, Where is God in a war zone? The Christian Chronicle’s coverage of the conflict in Ukraine
FINALISTS: Audrey Jackson, The Christian Chronicle, Religion Reporting by Audrey Jackson
Dwain Hebda, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths for Arkansas Democrat Gazette, Bishop Merrill High Profile
Environment/Science
WINNER: Phillip Powell, Illan Ireland, Cassie Stephenson, Arkansas Times, Tennessee Lookout, Mississippi Free Press, As climate threats to agriculture mount, could the Mississippi River Delta be the next California?
WINNER: Aprille Spivey, Arkansas Children’s Health System, Family spends 193 days in Arkansas Children’s NICU saving son from NEC
FINALISTS: Maggie Butler, Crafton Tull Website, Sounds of Success: Walmart AMP reaches a decade of shows in Rogers
Aprille Spivey, Arkansas Children’s Health System, ‘I’m all in’: Nurse, Mayor Stephanie White driven to change the world
Campaign
WINNER: Angelita Faller, Carrie Phillips, Muriel Schrepfer, Meaghan Milliorn, Angela Parker, Benjamin Krain, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Eclipsing Expectations
Newsletter
WINNER: Angelita Faller, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, UA Little Rock Now
Photography
WINNER: Benjamin Krain, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, UA Little Rock Men’s Track and Field Photo of Cameron Jackson
FINALISTS: Trevor Hensley, Crafton Tull, Northwest Park
Brittany Goff, Crafton Tull Social, Majestic Park
Press Release Writing
WINNER: Angelita Faller, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, UA Little Rock Receives $5 Million to Combat Drug Use Among Arkansas Youth
FINALISTS: Staci Miller, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette Community Journalism Project, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette launches philanthropy for community journalism
Trevor Hensley, Lindsay Young, Crafton Tull, Matt Crafton Receives ACEC Top Honor
Magazine Or Publication
WINNER: Donnie Sewell, Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts Public Information Office, ASMSA Tangents Summer 2024
FINALISTS: Jessica Ford, APR, Arkansas Community Foundation, Issuu , Engage Magazine: Early Literacy in Arkansas
Wendy Jordan, Leadership Greater Little Rock Class XL Team 2, Little Rock Regional Chamber, Leadership Greater Little Rock, College Station Conversations
VISUAL JOURNALISM
Breaking News Photography
WINNER: Colin Murphey, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, House Fire
FINALISTS: Mandy Keener, Sara Reeves, Kasten Searles, Arkansas Times, Arkansas Times magazine covers
Donnie Sewell, Mike Kemp, Corey Alderdice, Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts Public Information Office, ASMSA Tangents Summer 2024 Cover
Web Design
WINNER: Alison Fulton, Chris Fulton, Mountain Home Observer, Single article layout
FINALIST: Sarah Campbell-Miller, Nick Popowitch, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette Web Team, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, ArkansasOnline.com
Photo Spread/Essay
WINNER: Colin Murphey, Staci Vandagriff, Staton Breidenthal, Thomas Metthe, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Eclipse
FINALISTS: Audrey Jackson, The Christian Chronicle, A medical mission to ‘the hub of Boko Haram’
Chad Hunter, Cherokee Phoenix, Powwow captivates youth in reservation, beyond
Feature Photography
WINNER: Audrey Jackson, The Christian Chronicle, A medical mission to ‘the hub of Boko Haram’
FINALISTS: Adam Vogler, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, In the kaleidoscope
Collin Richie, 225 Magazine, Going for the gold
General News Photography
WINNER: Thomas Metthe, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Memorial Day
FINALISTS: Staci Vandagriff, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Match day
Colin Murphey, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Fighting fire hazard with fire
Aerial Photography
WINNER: Colin Murphey, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Superb Superbloom
Rex Nelson, Heather Baker to be featured as special guests; $15,000 to be awarded for A-Mark Prize for Investigative Journalism
LITTLE ROCK—The Arkansas Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists will present the Diamond Journalism Awards banquet on Saturday, July 26, at Next Level Events in downtown Little Rock. Rex Nelson, senior editor of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, and Heather Baker, president and publisher of AY Media Group, will provide the keynote conversation.
The event will recognize winners and finalists in more than 80 categories, showcasing work from Arkansas and bordering states. The placement of the inaugural winners of the A-Mark Prize for Investigative Journalism, which carries $15,000 in prize money, will be announced. This year’s finalists include Chris Fulton of the Mountain Home Observer, Jessica Ranck of KARK and FOX16 and Matt Campbell of the Arkansas Times.
“This year’s contest was our most competitive to date and we can’t wait to recognize the amazing work in Arkansas and surrounding states,” said Wendy Jordan, Arkansas SPJ president. “Rex is one of the best storytellers in the industry and having him join media powerhouse Heather Baker for the event’s keynote will be a perfect fit for an evening of celebrating journalism.”
Nelson is known for his columns, books, and the popular blog known as Rex Nelson’s Southern Fried and the Southern Fried podcast, as well as regular radio and TV appearances. A former communications director for Gov. Mike Huckabee and appointee under President George W. Bush, he has been honored as Rural Advocate of the Year and inducted into the Arkansas Sportscasters and Sportswriters Hall of Fame.
Nelson will be joined by Baker who has worked in the publishing industry for more than 25 years. Under her guidance and leadership, AY Media Group has grown to elite status in media circles both in the local market and nationally. She is also a well-known media personality and influencer whose work spans multiple mediums and countless philanthropic endeavors.
This year’s contest drew 704 entries in more than 80 categories, including divisions that recognize professional journalism, student journalism, and communications. SPJ members from Connecticut judged the competitions.
FOX 16 Good Day Morning Anchor, Ashlei King will be this year’s emcee. King, who is a San Antonio native with Arkansas roots, has earned both a National and Regional Edward R. Murrow Award and a Regional Emmy for her reporting.
The Diamond Awards ceremony will be held at Next Level Events, 1400 W. Markham St. in Little Rock. Dinner will be served at 5 p.m., and the program will begin immediately following. Tickets to the event are $35 per person through July 7 and will be $40 starting July 8 and can be purchased here. Table purchases and sponsorship opportunities are available.
The finalists are listed below, grouped by outlet or organization. A list sorted by individuals’ names and divisions can be found here.
* Craft Achievement Finalist ** Special Award Finalist ***A-Mark Prize for Investigative Reporting Finalist
Arkansas Advocate Antoinette Grajeda Mary Hennigan Tess Vrbin
Arkansas Children’s Health System Aprille Spivey
Arkansas Community Foundation Jessica Ford, APR
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette Adam Vogler Alex Thomas Colin Murphey* Cristina LaRue David Barham Dwain Hebda Frank Lockwood Grant Lancaster** Heather Kersten Josh Snyder Liz Atkinson Lucas Dufalla** Michael Hoge Mike Wickline Neal Earley Nick Popowitch* Philip Martin Remington Miller Richard Davenport Sarah Campbell-Miller* Staci Vandagriff Thomas Metthe* Tommy Foltz Wendy Jordan
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette Community Journalism Project Staci Miller
Arkansas State University The Herald Ibuki Hinohara
Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts Public Information Office Corey Alderdice Donnie Sewell Mike Kemp
Arkansas Times Annika Shunn Austin Gelder Benjamin Hardy Cassie Stephenson Daniel Grear David Ramsey Griffin Coop Illan Ireland Jeannie Roberts Kasten Searles Mandy Keener Mary Hennigan Matt Campbell*** Milo Strain Phillip Powell Sara Reeves Stephanie Smittle
At Home in Arkansas + PLATED: The Arkansas Dining Guide Stephanie Maxwell Newton*
Axios Northwest Arkansas Alex Golden Worth Sparkman
AY Magazine + Arkansas Money & Politics Dwain Hebda Mark Carter Sarah DeClerk
The Associated Press Andrew DeMillo
Cherokee Phoenix Chad Hunter Mark Dreadfulwater Micah Fletcher Stacie Boston
The Christian Chronicle Audrey Jackson** Bobby Ross Jr.** Calvin Cockrell Cheryl Mann Bacon Erik Tryggestad Ted Parks
Crafton Tull Brittany Goff Lindsay Young Maggie Butler Trevor Hensley
Cyclone Broadcasting Russellville High School Ava Brock Drew Brent Izzy Ohnmacht Madison Estep Mary Stratton Noah Carter
Fort Worth Weekly Anthony Mariani Edward Brown Jason Brimmer
Fox 16 + KARK News Alexis Burch Ashlei King Bob Clausen Caitrin Assaf* Caroline Derby Donna Terrell Jessica Ranck*** John Matthews Julian Jones Kevin Kelly* Kimberely Blackburn Kwasi Harshaw Laura Monteverdi Mattison Gafner Ronni Romero Samantha Boyd Stephen Goodale* Tylisa Hampton Whitney Thomas
inRegister Magazine Hoa Vu Jackie Haxthausen Jeffrey Roedel Melinda Gonzales Riley Bienvenu Bourgeois Stephania Campos
Institute for Public Service Reporting University of Memphis Christopher Blank Laura Kebede-Twumasi Marc Perrusquia
KFDM 6 (Beaumont, Texas) Kimberly Rusley Steven Bui
KFSM 5News Fort Smith Kayla Davis Michael Aaron Mike Nielsen Skot Covert (Previously KTHV)*
KNWA/FOX24 Fayetteville Anna Darling Brad Horn Chad Mira Lauren Motley*
Leader Newspaper Jonathan Feldman
Little Rock Public Radio + National Public Radio Daniel Breen Josie Lenora Maggie Ryan Nathan Treece
Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce Leadership Greater Little Rock Wendy Jordan + Class XL Community Project Team 2
Louisiana State University LSU Tiger TV, LSU Reveille, KLSU 91.1 FM Amelia Bridges Cade Savoy Cate Emma Warren Gabriella Guillory Jayden Slaughter John Buzbee Kaitlyn Hoang Marty Sullivan Mohammad Tantawi Morgan Carter Nicole Marino Patricia Caputo Payton Prichard Taylor Hamilton Torie Bovie
Madison County Record Ellen Kreth** Shannon Hahn**
McNeese State University The Poke Press Kyla Clark
Mississippi Free Press Ashton Pittman Cassie Stephenson Donna Ladd Heather Harrison Illan Ireland Nick Judin Phillip Powell Shaunicy Muhammad** Stacey Spiehler Torsheta Jackson William Pittman
MLK50: Justice Through Journalism Andrea Morales** Ashli Blow Jacob Steimer** Jacob Steimer Katherine Burgess Katti Gray Mikhaila Markham** Rebecca Cadenhead Zandria F. Robinson
Mountain Home Observer Alison Fulton Chris Fulton*** **
St. Louis Public Radio Danny Wicentowski
Tennessee Lookout Adam Friedman Anita Wadhwani Cassie Stephenson Holly McCall Illan Ireland Phillip Powell Sam Stockard
University of Arkansas The Arkansas Traveler & UATV Addie Jones Emma Rasmussen Ethan Doan Katie Parker* Maddi Phipps MJ Ferguson
University of Arkansas at Little Rock Communications & Marketing Office Angelita Faller Benjamin Krain Carrie Phillips Meaghan Milliorn Muriel Schrepfer
University of Mississippi NewsWatch Ole Miss, Daily Mississippian Ashlynn Payne Chequoia Adderley Erin Foley Gabe Evans Hannah Baker Seth Parenteau
University of Tennessee The Daily Beacon, WUOT and University of Tennessee for USA TODAY Caleb Jarreau** Pierce Gentry Ryan Beatty
World Christian Broadcasting’s New Life station & worldchristian.org Paul Ladd
NEWS RELEASE Contact: Wendy Miller Jordan, President arkspjcontest@gmail.com | 469.338.7062
2025 Diamond Journalism Awards Finalists Announced
A-Mark Award for Investigative Journalism prizes to be presented at banquet
LITTLE ROCK—The Arkansas Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists is proud to announce the finalists for the 2025 Diamond Journalism Awards and the A-Mark Prize for Investigative Reporting.
The Diamond Awards are a regional competition that attracts entries from Arkansas and six bordering states. The A-Mark Prize, sponsored by the A-Mark Foundation, was added this year to recognize exceptional investigative reporting in Arkansas. The A-Mark Foundation will present $15,000 divided among first, second, and third place, recognizing both the reporters and their newsrooms who have been named as finalists.
This year’s contest drew 704 entries in more than 80 categories, including divisions that recognize professional journalism, student journalism, and communications. SPJ members from Connecticut judged the competitions.
The winners will be announced on Saturday, July 26, at an awards ceremony at Next Level Events, 1400 W. Markham St. in Little Rock. Dinner will be served at 5 p.m., and the program will begin immediately following. This year’s emcee will be FOX 16 Good Day Morning Anchor, Ashlei King. Tickets to the event are $35 per person, and sponsorship opportunities are available. To purchase tickets, go here.
Here are the finalists listed in alphabetical order by first name in each division. If multiple entries are finalists but are credited in the same manner, the entry credit is only listed once per division.
A-MARK PRIZE FOR INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING IN ARKANSAS
Chris Fulton, Mountain Home Observer
Jessica Ranck, KARK and FOX16
Matt Campbell, Arkansas Times
PRINT/ONLINE
Adam Friedman, Tennessee Lookout
Alex Golden, Axios Northwest Arkansas
Andrew DeMillo, The Associated Press
Anita Wadhwani, Adam Friedman, Tennessee Lookout
Anthony Mariani, Fort Worth Weekly
Antoinette Grajeda, Arkansas Advocate
Antoinette Grajeda, Tess Vrbin, Mary Hennigan, Arkansas Advocate
Arkansas Times Staff
Benjamin Hardy, Matt Campbell, David Ramsey, Austin Gelder, Griffin Coop, Arkansas Times
Benjamin Leger, 225 Magazine
Bobby Ross Jr., Cheryl Mann Bacon, Calvin Cockrell, The Christian Chronicle
Chad Hunter, Cherokee Phoenix
Daniel Grear, Arkansas Times
David Barham, The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
David Ramsey, Jeannie Roberts, Austin Gelder, Benjamin Hardy, Arkansas Times
Donna Ladd, Mississippi Free Press
Dwain Hebda, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths for AY Magazine
Dwain Hebda, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths for Wheelhouse Publications
Ellen Kreth, Shannon Hahn, Madison County Record
Erik Tryggestad, The Christian Chronicle
Frank Lockwood, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Holly McCall, Tennessee Lookout
Jacob Steimer, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism
Jason Brimmer, Fort Worth Weekly
Jeffrey Roedel, Hoa Vu, Riley Bienvenu Bourgeois, inRegister Magazine
Jonathan Feldman, Leader newspaper
Katherine Burgess, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism
Mark Carter, Arkansas Money & Politics
Matt Campbell, Arkansas Times
Matt Campbell, David Ramsey, Austin Gelder, Benjamin Hardy, Mary Hennigan, Phillip Powell, Arkansas Times
Mike Wickline, Josh Snyder, Neal Earley, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Milo Strain, Arkansas Times
Nick Judin, Mississippi Free Press
Nick Judin, Stacey Spiehler, Ashton Pittman, Mississippi Free Press
Olivia Deffes, 225 Magazine
Philip Martin, The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Rebecca Cadenhead, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism
Richard Davenport, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Sam Stockard, Tennessee Lookout
Stephanie Maxwell Newton, PLATED: The Arkansas Dining Guide
Stephanie Smittle, Arkansas Times
Tommy Foltz, The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Worth Sparkman, Axios Northwest Arkansas
Zandria F. Robinson, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism
TELEVISION
40/29 News Staff
Anna Darling, Brad Horn, KNWA/FOX24
Brittany Tarwater, WVLT News
Caitrin Assaf, KARK 4 News
Caroline Derby, Kwasi Harshaw, FOX 16 News
Chad Mira, Lauren Motley, KNWA/FOX24
Darby Bybee, 40/29 News Staff
Donna Terrell, Fox16 News
Gabe Evans, NewsWatch Ole Miss
Hannah Baker, NewsWatch Ole Miss
Kayla Davis, KFSM 5News
Kevin Kelly, Julian Jones, FOX 16 News
Kevin Kelly, FOX 16 News
Kimberely Blackburn, Bob Clausen, Donna Terrell, Laura Monteverdi, Ashlei King, Ronni Romero, Fox16 & KARK 4 News
Kimberely Blackburn, Fox 16 News
Kimberly Rusley, Steven Bui, KFDM 6
Laura Monteverdi, Alexis Burch, KARK 4 News
Laura Monteverdi, John Matthews, KARK 4 News
Lauren Motley, KNWA/FOX24 Fayetteville
Maddi Phipps, UATV
Mattison Gafner, Stephen Goodale, KARK 4 News
Micah Fletcher, Cherokee Phoenix
Michael Aaron, Mike Nielsen, KFSM
Samantha Boyd, Stephen Goodale, KARK 4 News
Seth Parenteau, NewsWatch Ole Miss
Skot Covert, KFSM
Stacie Boston, Cherokee Phoenix
KARK 4 News – Staff
Tylisa Hampton, John Matthews, KARK 4 News
Tylisa Hampton, Stephen Goodale, KARK 4 News
UATV Staff
Whitney Thomas, Stephen Goodale, KARK 4 News
WVLT Staff , WVLT News
RADIO/AUDIO
Alex Thomas, Nick Popowitch, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Daniel Breen, Josie Lenora, Little Rock Public Radio
Daniel Breen, Little Rock Public Radio
Daniel Breen, National Public Radio
Danny Wicentowski, St. Louis Public Radio
Emma Rasmussen, UATV
Josie Lenora, Little Rock Public Radio
Josie Lenora, National Public Radio
Laura Kebede-Twumasi, Christopher Blank, Marc Perrusquia, Institute for Public Service Reporting
Maggie Ryan, Little Rock Public Radio
Maggie Ryan, National Public Radio
Nathan Treece, Little Rock Public Radio
Paul Ladd, World Christian Broadcasting’s New Life station & worldchristian.org
SPECIAL TOPICS
Antoinette Grajeda, Mary Hennigan, Tess Vrbin, Arkansas Advocate
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette Staff
Ashli Blow, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism
Audrey Jackson, The Christian Chronicle
Cristina LaRue, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Dwain Hebda, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths for Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Dwain Hebda, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths for AY Magazine
Dwain Hebda, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths for Mental Health Guide (AY Magazine)
Erik Tryggestad, Ted Parks, Bobby Ross Jr., The Christian Chronicle
Heather Harrison, Illan Ireland, Torsheta Jackson, Ashton Pittman, William Pittman, Nick Judin, Mississippi Free Press
Illan Ireland, Mississippi Free Press
Katti Gray, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism, Health in Memphis
DEALINE EXTENDED! ENTRIES DUE BY 5 P.M. FRIDAY, MARCH 7
2025 Diamond Journalism Awards Contest now accepting entries
New A-Mark Prize offers $15K in cash for Arkansas investigative reporting
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Arkansas SPJ is proud to announce the opening of the 2025 Diamond Journalism Awards. The annual contest is open to professional and student journalists, freelancers and communications professionals.
The contest is open to Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas residents, and entries can be made through March 3.
New this year is the A-Mark Prize for Investigative Reporting, which Arkansas SPJ has partnered with the A-Mark Foundation to present. It distributes $15,000 in cash to reporters and their newsrooms.
A-Mark winners will receive:
First place: $5,000 for the writer(s), plus $2,500 for the newsroom
Second place: $3,000 for the writer(s), $1,500 for the newsroom
Third place: $2,000 for the writer(s), $1,000 for the newsroom
The A-Mark Prize is the only Diamond Journalism Awards category limited to entries with an Arkansas connection, which means one or more of the following: (1) The winning reporter is based in Arkansas; (2) The newspaper or media outlet is based in Arkansas; or (3) The work covers Arkansas.
“We are incredibly proud to offer the A-Mark Prize for Investigative Reporting in Arkansas through the A-Mark Foundation,” said Wendy Jordan, Arkansas SPJ president. “This is a wonderful opportunity for journalists covering Arkansas issues to be recognized and monetarily rewarded for their efforts to uncover the truth.”
All Diamond Journalism Awards entries must be published or broadcast in 2024. There are nearly 100 categories in 10 divisions ranging from traditional print and broadcast content to podcasts, communications campaigns and more. Find all of the contest categories here.
Although entrants do not have to be members of SPJ, joining the organization offers more benefits than contest entry fee discounts. If you’re interested in joining, click here.
A-Mark Prize for Investigative Reporting (Division 10)
SPJ Members and Nonmembers: $40
The Diamond Journalism Awards uses the Better BNC contest management platform for entries and judging and fees are submitted through PayPal. All finalists will be recognized at the Diamond Awards event in July in central Arkansas. A listing of finalists will be announced prior to the event.
Searching for the truth is expensive. It takes time, resources and money, things a lot of newsrooms don’t have much of. But where there’s passion, there’s perseverance.
That’s why Arkansas SPJ and the A-Mark Foundation want to recognize investigative reporting and help to fund the continued effort. The A-Mark Prize will provide $15,000 each year for reporters and their newsrooms.
First place: $5,000 for the writer(s), plus $2,500 for the newsroom
Second place: $3,000 for the writer(s), $1,500 for the newsroom
Third place: $2,000 for the writer(s), $1,000 for the newsroom
Arkansas SPJ is one of only a few chapters hosting these investigative awards this year, and we are proud to partner with the A-Mark Foundation to continue the investigative efforts of hard-working reporters.
“The A-Mark Foundation hopes that our grants will lead to increased recognition and support for investigative journalists across the United States,” said A-Mark senior VP Tracey DeFrancesco. “We noticed that most state-level journalism awards did not have a cash prize, and we hope that providing a monetary award to both reporters and their publishing outlets will enable more important articles to be written.”
What you need to know
The A-Mark Prize for Investigative Journalism in Arkansas is described as an award for remarkable investigative reporting in any medium. *This prize is only open to entries with an Arkansas connection. The entry must include investigative reporting by an individual or team in a single report or a series – up to five items including coverage and other supporting elements. Stories should expose a wrong or promote understanding of a problem, issue or subject in the public interest.
The entry must have an Arkansas connection meaning one or more of the following applies: (1) The winning reporter is based in Arkansas; (2) The newspaper or media outlet is based in Arkansas; or (3) The work covers Arkansas. The entry must include investigative reporting by an individual or team in a single report or a series – up to five items including coverage and other supporting elements. Stories should expose a wrong or promote understanding of a problem, issue or subject in the public interest. A supporting statement (400 words max) is required.
The winners will be recognized, and the prizes will be distributed at the Arkansas Diamond Awards ceremony during Summer 2025. All entrants should plan to attend the ceremony in Little Rock in July if they are named a finalist.
If you have questions, email us anytime. The 2025 Diamond Journalism Awards contest is now open. To learn more, click here.
Arkansas’ longest-running news team featured as keynote special guests
LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists recognized the best of journalism Wednesday evening during the 2024 Diamond Journalism Awards. In addition to recognizing finalists and winners across seven divisions, the event featured a special Q&A segment with Kevin Kelly and Donna Terrell of Fox 16, Arkansas’ longest-running anchor team.
The Diamond Journalism Awards, presented by AY Magazine, took place at the Ron Robinson Theater in downtown Little Rock and featured Heather Baker, AY Media Group president and publisher, as moderator and emcee of the event.
As a regional competition, the Diamond Awards drew entries from Arkansas and six bordering states. This year’s contest drew 538 entries in 82 categories, including divisions that recognize professional journalism, student journalism, and communications. SPJ members from Pennsylvania and Florida judged the competitions.
“Arkansas SPJ is proud to not only recognize impactful journalism from across the region, but to also offer an opportunity for journalists to come together to celebrate great work and hear from the longest-running anchor team in Arkansas — Kevin Kelly and Donna Terrell,” said Wendy Jordan, Diamond Awards co-chair and president of Arkansas SPJ. “We are already looking forward to planning next year’s event and look forward to seeing even more amazing journalism in the year to come.”
This year’s Diamond Awards reception was sponsored by Crafton Tull and the event’s programs were printed by TC Print. Additional event sponsors included Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Arkansas Advocate, KARK Channel 4 and Fox16 News.
The following is a complete list of winners and finalists. Congratulations to all!
DIVISION 1: PRINT/ONLINE (Entries accepted from print and online-only publications)
BREAKING NEWS
Tess Vrbin, Arkansas Advocate for Walton Arts Center PRIDE dispute
WINNER: Andrew DeMillo, Adrian Sainz and Ben Finley, The Associated Press for Tornado Coverage
GENERAL NEWS
Hunter Field, Arkansas Advocate for Parole eligibility
WINNER: Chad Hunter, Cherokee Phoenix for Tribe celebrates Mankiller Barbie doll
CONTINUING COVERAGE
Tess Vrbin, Arkansas Advocate for Libraries under attack
Adrienne Johnson Martin, Brittany Brown, Andrea Morales, Jacob Steimer and Vahisha Hasan, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism for Tyre Nichols coverage
WINNER: Joseph Flaherty, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for Metropolitan Housing Alliance
ENTERPRISE/IN-DEPTH REPORTING
Christian Middleton, Mississippi Free Press for The case of Harry Mitchell: A family’s struggle for justice
Maggie Heyn Richardson, 225 Magazine Baton Rouge for In the weeds
WINNER: Jacob Steimer, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism for Memphis leads the nation in bankruptcies “Clear, concise and compelling writing that takes readers down the rabbit hole exposed in the title: “Shelby County ranks No. 1 in bankruptcy. Here’s why.” About the competition: “A fantastic, diverse category rich with excellent examples of enterprising, complex, deep reporting. One of the toughest divisions I’ve personally judged over the past 10 years of journalism competitions nationwide.”
INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING
Daniel Connolly, Brandon Lowrey, Jon Hill, Allison Grande, Matt Fair and Emily Field, Law360 for Debt firm’s flameout a cautionary tale for consumers “Fantastic explanatory reporting here and tight writing.”
Hunter Field, Arkansas Advocate for Wandering cops “Extremely close second. If I could give two first-place awards I would. Again, clearly an issue of great public interest and lack of transparency explained in a tight, clearly written fashion”
WINNER: Hunter Field, Arkansas Advocate for Medical Board chair investigated for Medicaid fraud “Absolutely astounding work It is clear that this reporting made a difference and compelled action, and it is written in a compelling, easy-to-understand way. 10/10”
EXPLANATORY REPORTING
Bobby Ross Jr. and Audrey Jackson, The Christian Chronicle (Oklahoma City) for No Limits series
Dwain Hebda, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths published in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for Sake to me
WINNER: Nuria Martinez-Keel, Oklahoma Voice for Textbook publishers withdraw from Oklahoma as fight over classroom content grows
EDITORIALS
Byron Tate, Pine Bluff Commercial
Tommy Foltz, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
WINNER: David Barham, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
COMMENTARY
Gwen Faulkenberry, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Sonny Albarado, Arkansas Advocate
WINNER: Brenda Looper, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
FEATURES
Tammy Keith, 501 Life Magazine for There’s always room at the nutcracker suite “Features can be fun, and this one hums along thanks to writer Tammy Keith’s wonderfully clean, clear storytelling.”
Aliyah Veal, Mississippi Free Press for Red And Bootjack Marker shines light on Duck Hill lynching “Writer Aliyah Veal shows a lot of heart in constructing this finely-written feature story.”
WINNER: Kelli Bozeman, Sara Essex Bradley and Hoa Vu, inRegister Magazine Baton Rouge for Portrait mode “Within this crowded category, there were about a dozen additional well-written feature stories that were in contention. Kudos! … Features writing is more vital today than ever, because this is the stuff that has the potential to inspire and spark conversations and community. We need it. Keep at it.”
PROFILES
Will Chavez, Cherokee Phoenix for Cherokee Nation citizen celebrates doing a 5K for 1,000 days in a row
Mak Millard, AY Magazine for Jimmy McGill, survivor “Sometimes the best profiles are stories about underdogs who do indeed overcome the odds stacked against them. Kudos to Mak Millard for taking great care with the twists and turns of underdog Jimmy McGill’s story. Well done.”
WINNER: Donna Ladd, Mississippi Free Press for Hodding Carter III: Hellraiser, Journalist, Mentor, 1935-2023 “The competition in this category was DEEP. It proves the point that there’s no shortage of fascinating characters to write about within Arkansas SPJ territory. Keep up the fantastic job bringing their stories to light.”
SPORTS
Dwain Hebda, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths published in Do South Magazine for Run Meredith, run!
Dwain Hebda, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths published in AMP Magazine for Pickleball
WINNER: Mark Clements, 225 Magazine Baton Rouge for The transfer portal puzzle “The transfer portal isn’t supposed to be this interesting to explain. Yet Mark Clements and his editor, Jennifer Tormo, make it so while simultaneously drilling down on LSU’s adept use of that portal. The narrative is seeded with well-designed, easy-to-digest sidebars and split into sections that make this long read fly by. Obviously, LSU football fanatics will eat this up, but the casual Saturday viewer will learn a lot, too.”
SPORTS FEATURE
Dwain Hebda, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths published in Do South Magazine for Keeping score
Micah Fletcher, Cherokee Phoenix for Stilwell Indians baseball team features Cherokee syllabary on uniforms
WINNER: Dwain Hebda, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths published in AY Magazine for Battle of the Ravine “Proving that you don’t need to write in sports jargon to cover sports, Dwain Hebda also confirms that sports reporting is about people more than plays. Once you finish this laid-back tale, you know more about both sports and people.”
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT COVERAGE
Aliyah Veal, Mississippi Free Press for Astronaut Behind The Music: Aliyah’s Veal’s Features
Philip Martin, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for Tulsa Dylan Center
WINNER: Bobby Ross Jr., The Associated Press (Oklahoma City) for $50M shrine to honor slain priest, first US Catholic martyr “At first, the judges thought this was a news features submitted in the wrong category. Then it develops into a moving story that even quotes the Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau president, an odd but intriguing juxtaposition for a murdered priest. This was a competitive category, but this won for the clear but unobtrusive writing and clean reporting.”
CRITICISM/REVIEWS
Andrew DeMillo, The Associated Press for Book reviews “Andrew DeMillo has an easy-to-read style in his book reviews, which combine the background information readers need to connect with the subject and brief commentary about whether we want to pursue the book further.”
WINNER: Benjamin Leger, 225 Magazine in Baton Rouge “Benjamin Leger clearly understands food and the dining experience, from taco stands to far more formal restaurants. His reviews are both informative and descriptive enough to help you imagine what the dishes taste and smell like.”
EDUCATION
Greg Geary, The Daily Citizen
Ellen Kreth and Jamie Smith, The Madison County Record for Parents fired up kiln not installed “Kreth demonstrates a strong range, covering a mix of breaking news and explaining complex topics happening in the local education scene for readers.”
Antoinette Grajeda, Arkansas Advocate for Arkansas education overhaul “An incredibly well-sourced and thorough series that incorporates storytelling components, including interactive maps and graphs, to tell the state’s major education story of the year.”
POLITICS
Hunter Field, Arkansas Advocate for Arkansas Corrections Board dispute
Andrew DeMillo, The Associated Press for 2023 Political Coverage
WINNER: Neal Earley, Dale Ellis and Michael Wickline, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for Attack on Open Records Law “This series of stories covered bills that would erode away at the state’s public records laws. It’s an important issue and the newspaper knew it. The stories are fair to both sides and are in-depth. Well-reported. Easy to read. I’m glad the newspaper devoted the resources to follow the issue. It’s valuable watchdog reporting at the Legislature and looks critically at what lawmakers are doing and why they are doing it — an important public service to your readers. Congratulations.”
SPECIAL SECTION/NICHE PUBLICATION
Jennifer Ellis and Staff, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for Real Weddings in Arkansas
Jennifer Ellis and Staff, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for Diamond Roundup
WINNER: Jennifer Ellis and Staff, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for Downtown Little Rock Magazine “Little Rock Downtown serves as a perfect guide to the district with colorful profiles and business spotlights. It’s a beautiful example of service journalism ready to support both visitors and longtime residents in navigating the district.”
DIVISION 2: TELEVISION (Entries accepted from broadcast and cable TV outlets or other video outlets)
BREAKING NEWS
WINNER: Gary Burton, Jr, Stephen Goodale, Bob Clausen and Laura Monteverdi, KARK 4 News Little Rock for March 31st Tornado “This video shows true superior reporting in a breaking news event of a catastrophic tornado affecting an Arkansas community. Though rather raw in one aspect, it doesn’t matter because it was about the immediacy of this reporting. The urgency was finding the people who were affected, finding out how they were individually affected, and allowing the residents to tell the story and express their emotions and then reporting it. … The photojournalism along with the reporting is superior with intimate interviews of residents and their stories as well as outstanding B-roll damage video footage from the tornado. … Great work!”
CONTINUING COVERAGE
Staff of WVLT Knoxville for Deputy Tucker Blakey
WINNER: Staff of KARK 4 News Little Rock for Beyond March 31st: Stories of Resilience “The news cycle can be fast and fleeting, And as journalists/newsrooms we are always looking for the next story on the horizon. This is why taking the time to invest in continuing coverage is so important and personal when staying connected to the community they serve. This entries showed a variety of stories beyond the horrific tornado event and checked in with the community residents and their progress and recovery. It was a great example of suburb local news reporting. Bravo!”
EXPLANATORY REPORTING
Ben Cathey and Will Puckett, WVLT Knoxville for From doom to boom | Hope flows in East Tennessee
Breandan Conyers and Sarah Horbacewicz, KTHV Little Rock for Aging Water System Threatens Helena West Helena “Nice work in shedding light on a topic that was covered by national news outlets. Great photojournalism with interviews of water officials and water officials and showing water instrumentation. Very nice breakouts with great stats and information about the rural issues behind clear water and accessibility. Definitely brought the wide-angle view of this issue to a large frame of examination in this local reporting. This report definitely shows how the quality of life could be affected if actions are not taken to improve aging water systems.”
WINNER: Caitrin Assafand Stephen Goodale, KARK 4 News for From Bet to Bust: Long-promised Pope County casino still not in the cards “This explanatory report checked all the boxes that made great explanatory journalism from providing information to elevate the viewers’ understanding of the casino issue to creatively explaining the past process of this expectant casino’s arrival and how it never has developed in this county. The nuance of the report was outstanding with … B-roll to keep your audience interested but it also lead them through a complicated and twisted set of circumstances that has resulted in a casino never being built or developed in Pope County. … It also shed light on both sides of the issue and how it affects the everyday people no matter if they were for or against it. Incredible work!”
INVESTIGATIVE
Laura Monteverdi and LV Randall, KARK for School of Law
Laura Monteverdi, KARK for False Hope
WINNER: Chad Mira, Brad Horn and Ethan Sam, KNWA News Fayetteville for Medical board chairs alleged fraud scheme “Great in-depth reporting, data, video and comments support this story well.” About the competition: Some very good work. Medical Board Chairs Alleged Fraud and False Hope were outstanding.”
NEWS FEATURE
Skot Covert, THV11 for Bucket List Item #68 “I absolutely loved this story. It’s the perfect example of the “story behind the story.” The writing was great, very moving. I was in tears at the end. You have an amazing delivery with your track. Well done.”
Donna Terrell, KLRT-TV Little Rock for I-30 Saved My Life “I enjoyed how you wrote this story—the build-up to the crash and then the cancer diagnosis. This moved me to tears. Great job with the storytelling.”
WINNER: Kevin Kelly, KLRT – FOX 16 News for Polishing History “The writing in this piece is so descriptive, clever, and fun. You made a story about cleaning doors so enjoyable to watch and appreciate. The live intro into your package when you stared into the door for your reflection was a really nice touch.”
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Casey Wheeless and Harry Sullivan, WVLT Knoxville for Mornings On The Move
Tylisa Hampton and John Matthews, FOX16 NEWS/ KLRT for A gift that never ages: A 106-year-old cellist shares special musical bond with 11-year-old
WINNER: Skot Covert, Kelly Tibbit and Zach Keast, THV11 for Eat It Up!
CRIME/JUSTICE
Bob Clausen and Stephen Goodale, KARK4 News for Cold Case: Sandra Williams
Kevin Kelly and Julian Jones, KLRT – FOX 16 News for Operation “Xtended Stay”
WINNER: Ashlei King, KLRT – FOX16 for Case Closed? “This was great storytelling with a powerful setup.”
PROFILES
Ashlei King and Cole Clevenger, KLRT – FOX16 for Voice of Soul Train
Tylisa Hampton and Julian Jones, FOX16 NEWS/ KLRT for ‘It was scary,’ Arkansas woman shares journey of being in foster care system & aging out of it
WINNER: Anna Darling, KNWA/FOX24 Fayetteville for New Fort Smith rodeo pageant fosters diversity in horseback riding
EDUCATION
Kevin Kelly and Stephen Goodale, KLRT Little Rock for A Seminary Graduation “Powerful story of hope and redemption. Excellent sound bites, writing and supporting video.”
Tylisa Hampton and Julian Jones, FOX16 NEWS/ KLRT / KARK-TV for Schooling Arkansas: The Education Challenge “Strong and professional writing and intro and outro. Excellent story development and structure.”
WINNER: Jessica Ranck, Stephen Goodale, Kian McMahan and Bob Clausen, KARK4 News for Academic Intervention “Strong reporting and news writing. Story structure and sound bites add professional context to product. Excellent video work.”
POLITICS
WINNER: Anna Darling, KNWA/FOX24 Fayetteville “Anna Darling’s report is outstanding in reporting the PACT Act for the U.S. veterans in Arkansas. She sought out three great sources, including a veteran dealing with the consequences of being exposed to toxic waste while in the military and also a VA representative an advocate who is working with Arkansas veterans to meet deadlines and gain more information. … Darling also provides the history of the PACT Act and its presidential and Congressional paths. … It was an impressive report covering important factors for local veterans in her coverage area. Superior work!”
WEATHER
Anna Darling, KNWA/FOX24 Fayetteville for Looking back four years after the 2019 Fort Smith flood
WINNER: Skot Covert, THV11 for Busting Tornado Myths “This report was splendid in that it wasn’t just a look back after a tornado that hit 90 days ago but a report that reflected on how the meteorologists themselves can focus on the research to help save lives in the future. Another way this report was beneficial to its audience was laying out common myths surrounding where and why tornados go and act in a certain way and dispelling those myths. Awesome way to educate the public! Outstanding graphics were shown on how this March 31, 2023 tornado’s trailed through the city of Little Rock and debunking all the myths a meteorologist spoke about in this report. Great video editing. Great graphics. Great script writing. …”
SPORTS STORY
WINNER: Anna Darling and Lauren Motley, KNWA/FOX24 Fayetteville for Lucy Byrd Mock: The woman who brought golf to NWA “A well-reported story of women’s history in Arkansas and a good connection between a young South African making her own history and a pioneer who helped grow the sport in her state.“
NEWSCAST
WINNER: Neale Zeringue, Carmen Rose, Donna Terrell, Kevin Kelly, Kimberely Blackburn and Ronni Romero, KLRT Fox16 in Little Rock for “The Spirit of Arkansas” “Great Producing, Storytelling, and videography. Definitely Award-worthy.”
DIVISION 3: RADIO/AUDIO (Entries accepted from broadcast radio, podcasts and other outlets producing audio)
BREAKING NEWS
WINNER: Daniel Breen, Josie Lenora, Little Rock Public Radio for Coverage of March 31, 2023 Arkansas tornado outbreak “Clear, comprehensive and compelling coverage. You served your listeners well, in the wake of deadly tornado damage. Well done!”
GENERAL NEWS
Josie Lenora, Little Rock Public Radio with For much of Arkansas, earthquake threat looms large
WINNER: Josie Lenora, Little Rock Public Radio for Librarians fight book challenges in central Arkansas counties “Excellent use of sound to convey the many facets of this very current issue, with a well-written script to weave the story together. Well done!”
ONGOING COVERAGE
Josie Lenora and Daniel Breen, Little Rock Public Radio for Efforts continue to get an Arkansas LEARNS repeal on the ballot
WINNER: Josie Lenora, Little Rock Public Radio for Rural Arkansas ‘crypto mines’ prompt noise complaints from residents “Fantastic job breaking down and explaining an abstract issue (crypto mining) and the real issues (noise, energy use) it’s causing in communities. Excellent work, especially tracking down an impacted resident and droning nat sound of the mines in operation.”
ENTERPRISE/EXPLANATORY REPORTING
Tony Holt and Kyle McDaniel, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for The Devil of Pope County | Episode 5: A neutralizing maneuver
Josie Lenora, Little Rock Public Radio for A look inside the evolution of an Arkansas FOIA bill
WINNER: Josie Lenora, Little Rock Public Radio for School choice detractors, advocates come to head over Arkansas education bill “Excellent job at taking listening through a complex topic step-by-step–exactly what explanatory reporting should do. A skillfully-reported story, with all the sources shining different lights of perspective on the topic at hand.”
INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING
WINNER: Josie Lenora, Little Rock Public Radio for Crawford County officials, residents debate LGBTQ books in library children’s section “Josie Lenora’s piece exemplifies everything this category stands for, and more: ‘For reporting that demonstrates initiative, persistence and resourcefulness in pursuing information that is restricted, hidden or not readily available and is of public interest and significance.’ Her dedication, research and tenacity in pursing this story–about one community’s handling of LGBTQ books in its public library–demonstrates Lenora’s abilities as a skilled journalist.”
FEATURES
Josie Lenora, Little Rock Public Radio for Fired central Arkansas library director reflects on her termination
WINNER: Maggie Ryan, Little Rock Public Radio for Activists push to remember lynching victims in Arkansas “Excellent interweaving of narration and sound to create a moving community story, shining a light on a nearly-forgotten victim of racial terror in Arkansas nearly 100 years ago.”
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Paul Ladd, World Christian Broadcasting’s New Life station & worldchristian.org in Nashville, Tenn. for Spanish American Art at the Frist
Paul Ladd, World Christian Broadcasting’s New Life station & worldchristian.org in Nashville, Tenn. for Jeffrey Gibson: Electric!
WINNER: Josie Lenora, Little Rock Public Radio for Maureen Corrigan on “Fresh Air,” banned books and the art of criticism “An intelligent and fun piece that provides glimpses into the life of Fresh Air’s book critic.”
EDUCATION
Josie Lenora, Little Rock Public Radio for Arkansas LEARNS: where are we now?
Maggie Ryan, Little Rock Public Radio for UAPB professor responds to claims of state underfunding
WINNER: Josie Lenora, Little Rock Public Radio for Questions continue over Arkansas teacher pay “A solid story that weaves many viewpoints together for a holistic look at the state’s new school voucher program – and the confusion surrounding its implementation. Well done.” About the competition: “Kudos to all entrants for tackling the tough issues within education today.”
POLITICS
Alex Thomas and Nick Popowitch, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for Arkies in the Beltway
Josie Lenora, NPR for Despite threats, no state has an active law banning drag in front of kids
WINNER: Josie Lenora, NPR for Arkansas drops AP African American Studies course “Everything is political today – even an AP history class. Kudos to reporter Josie Lenora for covering this story with clarity.”
DIVISION 4: SPECIAL TOPICS – ALL MEDIA (Entries accepted from any medium)
HEALTH
Tess Vrbin, Arkansas Advocate for a wide range of maternal, reproductive legislation
Ashton Pittman and Heather Harrison, Mississippi Free Press for Reproductive health in Mississippi post Dobbs
WINNER: Tess Vrbin and Antoinette Grajeda, Arkansas Advocate for A year without abortion in Arkansas
ENVIRONMENT/SCIENCE
Skot Covert, Lauren Johnston and Bre Conyers of THV11 for 3,000 Barrels “An excellent piece that carefully chronicles the toll of 10 years of environmental harm upon a community following the rupture of an oil pipeline.”
Ben Cathey, WVLT Knoxville for Science & The Smokies “A fascinating series that focuses on three specific species under threat. Excellent blend of storytelling, interviews, graphics and breath-taking photography.”
WINNER: Donna Ladd, Mississippi Free Press for One lake or no lake? Debate over Pearl River flooding options causes unlikely allies, opponents “Meticulously-researched, compelling storytelling that breaks down a complex environmental issue. Excellent environmental reporting at its best.” About the competition: “Kudos to all journalists who entered this extremely deep category. Your pieces were well-reported and researched. Keep up the very important, much-needed task of environmental journalism.”
RELIGION
Aprille Spivey, Arkansas Catholic portfolio
Laura Monteverdi and Stephen Goodale, KARK4 News for Ambassadors for Christ in prison
WINNER: Bob Ross, Jr., The Associated Press, The Christian Chronicle and Religion Unplugged (Oklahoma City) “Bob Ross, Jr.… brings the nuance, complexity and context so overwhelmingly necessary for today’s journalists to cover religion news. … Ross is able to bring the explanatory aspect of journalism into his work by breaking down definitions and historical aspects, as well as rituals for his readers when reporting on a religion(s). … He allows the people in his articles to speak and define their religion for themselves and does not place himself as an authority of how a faith should be represented. …”
BUSINESS
WINNER: Heather Harrison, Mississippi Free Press for Medical Cannabis Industry Faces Growing Pains in Mississippi
DIVISION 5: VISUAL JOURNALISM & DESIGN (Entries accepted from any medium)
BREAKING NEWS PHOTOGRAPHY
Stephen Swofford, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for High School Cross Country
WINNER: Staci Vandagriff and Stephen Swofford, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for Tornado Coverage “Although Staci and Stephen’s entries were submitted separately, the judge determined that both Staci Vadagriff and Stephen Swofford were the winners of Breaking News Photography for their coverage of the Little Rock tornado. “…From individual photos of rescues by firefighters, providing enormous views of the overall damage, the heroic efforts of regular citizens, the touching humanity of emergency workers hugging each other as they search for survivors are what makes these photojournalists the winners for this coveted award. Absolutely phenomenal work! The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette has some very talented photojournalists!”
GENERAL NEWS PHOTOGRAPHY
Colin Murphey, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for Cleaning up the damage
Thomas Metthe, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for Memorial Day
WINNER: Shaunicy Muhammad, Mississippi Free Press for Human error caused Hinds County election day ballot shortages, commissioners say “This photojournalist took the shot from the county commissioners’ view into the audience they are looking at and what they saw was a very skeptical group of people that this journalist captured in excellent visual form for this newsworthy photograph. It is always hard to photograph meetings because the photographs taken are so similar. This photograph was the exception. Thanks for giving us the example to move out of our comfort zone and move around our subjects and find new angles.”
FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHY
Jenn Terrell, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for How college in prison is changing lives
Colin Murphey, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for Trail of Lights
WINNER: Andrea Morales, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism for Community lost: Binghampton residents forced out as home flipper moves in
PHOTO SPREAD/ESSAY
Staci Vandagriff, Stephen Swofford and Colin Murphey, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for March 31 Tornado
Collin Richie, 225 Magazine in Baton Rouge for Seafood Lover’s Guide
WINNER: Andrea Morales, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism for In Pearson’s return, Memphis finds its place in Nashville
GRAPHICS/ILLUSTRATIONS
Carrie Hill, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Melinda Gonzalez Galjour, 225 Magazine in Baton Rouge for Keep calm and game-day on
WINNER: William Pittman, Mississippi Free Press for State has wrong or missing addresses for 92 voting precincts, MFP investigation finds “Easy to understand and effective design from the MFP.”
FRONT PAGE DESIGN-NEWSPAPERS
Heather Kersten, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
WINNER: Mark Dreadfulwater, Cherokee Phoenix
COVER DESIGN-MAGAZINES
Jenna Kelley, AY Magazine for The Grumpy Rabbit
Jenna Kelley, AY Magazine for Barry Thomas, artist profile
WINNER: Melinda Galjour, Collin Richie and Hoa Vu, 225 Magazine in Baton Rouge “About the competition: “I’m a sucker for excellent photography, even over the best drawing, and you can see how meticulous 225 Magazine staff were in thinking about this cover design and how to execute it.”
WEB DESIGN
Josh Snyder, Aidian Holder, Alyson Hoge and Allison Shirk, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for LEARNS Guide
WINNER: Cherokee Phoenix
DIVISION 6: COMMUNICATIONS (Entries accepted from marketing and PR firms and corporate communications teams)
PRESS RELEASE WRITING
WINNER: Angelita Faller, University of Arkansas at Little Rock for UA Little Rock and Jacksonville North Pulaski School District partner on innovative new teacher residency program
FEATURE WRITING
Aprille Spivey, Arkansas Children’s Health System for Basketball and an AED: How Arkansas Children’s saved J.T. Taylor Jr.’s life
Rebecca McGraw and Lori Lemley, Our Heritage for Customer spotlight: Arkansas crop technologies/sweetgum flower
WINNER: Aprille Spivey, Arkansas Children’s Health System for Furry friends give hope to Arkansas Children’s patients through T.A.I.L.S. program “Appreciated the different perspectives in the story – it wasn’t just about the patients but also the dogs, their handlers and even the medical staff. Excellent quotes and overall descriptive narrative that properly showed the benefits of the program from all sides.”
PHOTOGRAPHY
Wendy Jordan, Crafton Tull for 60th Anniversary Volunteer Week
Wendy Jordan, Crafton Tull for The Best View on the Playground
WINNER: Brittany Goff, Crafton Tull for Hot Springs office cools off with Loblolly “Splendid photograph to be used by a business! It is crisp and clean and colorful. The cone, hand and company name is strategically placed to promote this food truck delight.” “ … Making this photo a vertical image only makes the photo more impactful, working the eyes up through the hand and the cone. Gorgeous photo! Now, where can I find this food truck? Great work!”
CAMPAIGN
WINNER: Crafton Tull Marketing Team for P.E. Week 2023 Social Media Campaign “In awards categories such as these, too often the entries try too hard. Concepts are packed into too little space. Here, simple is interesting. It takes only a moment to understand and appreciate what’s going on. More of this would be better for everyone.”
NEWSLETTER
WINNER: Angelita Faller, University of Arkansas at Little Rock “In an effort to be brief, too many newsletters are vague. There’s not enough detail to encourage a click-through. Not so here. Obviously, great thought went into every description, and every word tells.”
DIVISION 7: STUDENT JOURNALISM – ALL MEDIA (Announced by Heather)
STUDENT-SPECIAL PROJECTS
Metia Carroll, Haylee Kennedy, Erin Rogers and Ella Wales, LSU Tiger TV for Food Insecurity series
WINNER: Chase Hartsell, Ouachita Baptist University for Hidden heroes: An Arkansas sports anthology “Exhaustive research on an overlooked topic. Extremely interesting, and I’m not a sports fan.”
STUDENT-BREAKING NEWS
WINNER: Erin Rogers and Miguel Paredes Reye, LSU Tiger TV for Defense Attorneys in Madison Brooks Case Speak Out
STUDENT-GENERAL NEWS
Jacob Mathews, The Reveille/LSUReveille.com for LSU Student Senate’s open meetings compliance is a work in progress
Caroline Averitt, ASU The Herald for A-State students impacted by tornadoes that swept the state
WINNER: Rachel Rudd, ASU The Herald for How the nationwide Adderall shortage affects A-State students
STUDENT-FEATURES
Colin Falcon, The Reveille/LSUReveille.com for Man-in-the-quad: How an LSU student is going viral on TikTok
Haylee Kennedy, LSU Tiger TV, for Hives for Heroes
WINNER: Cross Harris, The Reveille/LSUReveille.com for A departed father’s final trip to New Orleans: ‘He always loved the city’ “A beautiful feature about love and loss with colorful writing and detailed storytelling.”
STUDENT-SPORTS
Caroline Averitt, ASU The Herald for There is not a moment to spare when it comes to bowling
Adam Guttuso, LSU Tiger TV for Dream purple, win gold
WINNER: Chloe Richmond, The Reveille/LSUReveille.com for ‘I really just wanted to graduate and go’: The story of Kylie DeBerg’s six-year career
STUDENT-EDITORIALS
Elijah Templeton and Caroline Averitt, ASU The Herald
WINNER: The Reveille Editorial Board
STUDENT-COMMENTARY
Frank Kidd, The Reveille/LSUReveille.com
Lauren Madden, The Reveille/LSUReveille.com
WINNER: Matthew Pellittieri, The Reveille/LSUReveille.com
STUDENT-ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT REPORTING
Alison Agena and Garrett McEntee, The Reveille/LSUReveille.com
Jerry Don Burton and Caroline Averitt, ASU The Herald
WINNER: Lyla McGuire, Olivia Tomlinson and John Buzbee, The Reveille/LSUReveille.com
STUDENT-CRITICISM/REVIEWS
WINNER: Rebecca Robinson, Caroline Averitt, ASU The Herald
STUDENT-BUSINESS
Avery Jones, Delta Digital News Service for Area bookstore owners provide tailored service despite Barnes & Noble imminent return
WINNER: Colin Falcon, The Reveille/LSUReveille.com for LSU Natural Science Museum hosts third largest university-based bird collection with over 500 birds
STUDENT-EDUCATION
Caroline Averitt, Delta Digital News Service for Valley View School Board discusses new state legislation impact
WINNER: Emily Bracher, The Reveille/LSUReveille.com for ‘A forced forgetting’: How a Republican culture war could shape Louisiana education
STUDENT-NEWS PHOTO
WINNER: Rachel Rudd, ASU The Herald for Young Democrats and Gender and Sexuality Alliance host on-campus drag show
STUDENT-FEATURE PHOTO
WINNER: Shelby Russom, ASU The Herald for Hispanic heritage at A-State
STUDENT-PHOTO SPREAD/ESSAY
Ibuki Hinohara, Delta Digital News Service for Red Wolves dominate NIU Huskies for a 75-62 win
Atsuki Ohbuchi, Delta Digital News Service for Red Wolves fall to OSU Cowgirls 0-1
WINNER: Atsuki Ohbuchi, Delta Digital News Service for Red Wolves beat Texas State 77-31
Board-Selected Awards
Diamond Educator: Drew Brent, the broadcast instructor at Russellville High School A few years ago, Drew Brent, a broadcast instructor at Russellville High School, spoke at Arkansas SPJ’s Get the Scoop traveling ice cream social at Arkansas Tech University when he was a reporter at the Courier. He helped launch a broadcast-media program at Russellville High School two years ago. Arkansas SPJ board members have watched him post about the wonderful real-world opportunities he has provided his students to connect with media professionals while practicing their craft. In particular, this spring, Cyclone Broadcasting had a whirlwind month of real-world experience and new connections as he took his team to tour THV11 and gain valuable insight from management and anchor Karen Fuller, meteorologist Skot Covert, Jurnee Taylor, and Wake Up Central host Hayden Balgaavy. Drew’s broadcasting students job-shadowed NASA scientists and media relations personnel over two days during eclipse events in Russellville, including conducting exclusive interviews with the team and overseeing a live NASA TV broadcast. Cyclone Broadcasting also visited Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville and worked alongside SEC Network personnel and Razorback Sports Network producers during a live SEC Network broadcast of Arkansas Razorback softball. In addition to all of this, the program at Russellville is also set to begin a new Cyclone Broadcasting Media Mentorship program pairing students and media professionals for regular, one-on-one interactions to help improve and encourage students. For his excellence in providing these valuable experiences for his students, Arkansas SPJ awards Drew Brent our inaugural Diamond Educator award and given a $250 grant.
Diamond in the Rough Award: Mary Stratton of Russellville High School In a letter, Drew told the Arkansas SPJ board, “Mary has shown exemplary leadership skills in our first two years as a program, guiding Cyclone Broadcasting to its first major state award, gold status in live multicam production for her live coverage of the Russellville Christmas parade last year. That show garnered nearly 17,000 views, the most in the parade’s history. She was recognized by our local newspaper for her groundbreaking sit-down interview with Russellville Mayor Fred Teague, discussing the economic impact of the forthcoming casino project, and has served as the executive producer of all of Cyclone Broadcasting’s newscasts. “Beyond her achievement in the classroom, Mary has already garnered statewide attention for her work as an intern with Scorebook Live. Nate Olsen, the managing editor of Scorebook Live, former contributor to several state publications, on-air talent for 103.7 The Buzz and THV 11 said of Mary, “Mary is one of the more responsible and dependable high school students you’ll encounter. We asked her to tag social media posts in two markets and she performed the task for us with dependability and acute attention to detail for the entire school year. It is a very important task for the marketing of our company, and she did it very well. “Additionally, Mary completed an internship with EAB Radio in Russellville, earning high praise from management for her graphics work and copy that she wrote that later made it to air. Moreover, she has job shadowed with THV11, KAIT8 in Jonesboro, collaborated with NASA TV during the eclipse, all while serving her community through the Crown Club, student council, the RHS Dance team, and as an instructor at a local dance studio for younger students. “At only 17, Mary Stratton is not a rising star in this business, she is a bona fide star. Her opportunities are endless because of her fierce work ethic, determination to be the best, and journalistic integrity. She has already proven herself to be an outstanding representative for any organization that she represents, and I would argue that there is no greater ambassador for the Society of Professional Journalists moving forward.”
Arkansas SPJ awarded the Diamond in the Rough a $250 grant to support journalism’s future.
Valiant Effort for Transparency Award: To the leaders of the Arkansas Citizens for Transparency For their efforts to protect the people’s right to know and enshrine the Freedom of Information in the state constitution, Arkansas SPJ presents a special Valiant Effort for Transparency Award to the leaders of the Arkansas Citizens for Transparency, Arkansas Press Association and Ballot Question Committee (Clarke Tucker, Nate Bell, David Couch, Jen Standerfer, Roberts Steinbuch, John Tull and Ashley Wimberley). Although the campaign, which collected 119,480 signatures in support of the 2024 Arkansas Government Disclosure Act and Amendment, fell short this election cycle, it did help raise awareness of the importance of the FOIA, and the group has vowed to make a second effort in 2026. Arkansas SPJ thanks ACT and all the volunteers who worked on the campaign for their efforts and presents a check for $1,000 to help with any expenses the campaign incurred or to help kick off the 2026 campaign.
CRAFT ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
OUTSTANDING NEWS ANCHOR
Kevin Kelly, KLRT
Caitrin Assaf, KARK 4 News
WINNER: Casey Wheeless, WVLT Knoxville
“Great anchors are versatile, and Wheeless is comfortable and professional in front of the camera as well as in front of an interview subject.”
OUTSTANDING METEOROLOGIST
Ben Cathey, WVLT Knoxville
Skot Covert, THV11
WINNER: Carmen Rose, KLRT Little Rock
“Carmen Rose has an outstanding professional presence and sparkling personality … she presents a superior perception of the weather in Arkansas, and she does it with respect and dignity by giving her audience up-to-date weather conditions, including where storms may be going and the possible impact when they may arrive. … Rose’s forecasts are presented in a confident way to ensure her audience is getting …accurate data, but she also takes a different path… of forecasting by bringing in fun, seasonal or educational graphics to enhance her forecasts … Rose is definitely community-engaged with her visits to sporting events and airports. ….”
OUTSTANDING TV NEWS WRITER
Cassandra Webb, KATV
Tylisa Hampton, FOX16 NEWS/ KARK-TV
WINNER: Caitrin Assaf, KARK 4 News “Caitrin Assaf does a fine job connecting her words to both the photography and the story in a fine category. Kudos also to her for making a variety of stories compelling.”About the competition: “Applause to all the participants in a high-quality category.”
OUTSTANDING TV EDITOR
Aimee Fowler, WVLT News
WINNER: Stephen Goodale, KARK4/FOX16 News “The best editing accompanies the stories with the least compelling B roll. That’s just the reality of it. Here, Stephen uses all the tricks to keep the story moving but does so without calling attention to them. The best editing is invisible but crucial, and that’s what happens here.”
OUTSTANDING TV PHOTOGRAPHER
WINNER: Stephen Goodale, KARK4 News
SPECIAL AWARDS
CHARLOTTE TILLAR SCHEXNAYDER PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD – For journalism that seeks to benefit society through extensive coverage of an issue facing a community, state or region. Awarded in honor of the late Charlotte Schexnayder, journalist, small-town newspaper publisher and Arkansas legislator.
Ashton Pittman, William Pittman, Shaunicy Muhammad, Mississippi Free Press for Trusted Elections: From Problems to Solutions
WINNER: Frank Lockwood, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for Lockwood Immanuel Baptist “Everything about this entry was magnificent. The writing, the research, the public records and the push for accountability. Bravo.” About the competition: “The entries were absolutely top-notch and focused on some of the most important public transparency issues in America today.”
ROBERT S. MCCORD FOI AWARD – For coverage that focuses on the public’s right to know and carries on the legacy of the late Robert McCord, a former national SPJ president who is considered the father of the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.
Cynthia Howell, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Neal Earley, Michael Wickline, Josh Snyder, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette “I loved this story because $19K might seem like a drop in the bucket in a state budget, but it’s a red flag for a freshman governor. Great work for public transparency.”
WINNER: Hunter Field, Arkansas Advocate for Wandering cops “One of my favorite reads in this contest. Brilliant. Comprehensive. Cleanly written. Brings the point home. 10/10”
STUDENT JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR – For journalistic excellence demonstrated by an individual enrolled in an institution of higher learning.
WINNER: Chase Hartsell, Ouachita Baptist University
EMERGING JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR – For journalistic excellence demonstrated by an individual who has worked fewer than five years in journalism.
Sarah Horbacewicz, KTHV (North Little Rock)
Torsheta Jackson, Mississippi Free Press
WINNER: Grant Lancaster, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette “I loved everything about this submission. The writing was clean, showed enterprise and initiative. Fantastic.”
DIAMOND JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR – For reporting excellence by a journalist in any medium over the preceding year.
Bobby Ross Jr., The Associated Press, The Christian Chronicle and Religion Unplugged (Oklahoma City)
Bill Bowden, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
WINNER: DWAIN HEBDA, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths
“Consistently the best writing across the entries.”
LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists is proud to announce the finalists in the 2024 Diamond Journalism Awards, a regional competition that attracts entries from Arkansas and six bordering states.
This year’s contest drew 538 entries in 82 categories, including divisions that recognize professional journalism, student journalism, and communications. SPJ members from Pennsylvania and Florida judged the competitions.
The winners will be announced on July 24 at an awards ceremony at the Ron Robinson Theater in Little Rock. A reception will begin at 5 p.m. and the program featuring Fox 16 News Anchors Kevin Kelly and Donna Terrell, Arkansas’ longest-running anchor team, will start at 6 p.m. Tickets to the event are $35 per person. To purchase tickets, go here.
Arkansas Advocate Sonny Albarado Hunter Field Antoinette Grajeda Tess Vrbin
Arkansas Catholic Aprille Spivey
Arkansas Children’s Health System Aprille Spivey
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette David Barham Bill Bowden Neal Earley Dale Ellis Jennifer Ellis Gwen Faulkenberry Joseph Flaherty Tommy Foltz Dwain Hebda Carrie Hill Alyson Hoge Aidian Holder Tony Holt Cynthia Howell Heather Kersten Grant Lancaster Frank Lockwood Brenda Looper Kyle McDaniel Thomas Metthe Colin Murphey Nick Popowitch Allison Shirk Josh Snyder Stephen Swofford Jenn Terrell Alex Thomas Staci Vandagriff Michael Wickline
Pine Bluff Commercial Byron Tate
Crafton Tull Crafton Tull Marketing Team Brittany Goff Wendy Jordan
The Associated Press Andrew DeMillo Adrian Sainz Ben Finley
The Associated Press, The Christian Chronicle, Religion Unplugged Bobby Ross Jr.
Cherokee Phoenix Mark Dreadfulwater Chad Hunter Will Chavez Micah Fletcher
MLK50: Justice Through Journalism Brittany Brown Vahisha Hasan Adrienne Johnson Martin Andrea Morales Jacob Steimer
Oklahoma Voice Nuria Martinez-Keel
InRegister Magazine Kelli Bozeman Sara Essex Bradley Hoa Vu
225 Magazine Benjamin Leger
Mississippi Free Press Heather Harrison Torsheta Jackson Donna Ladd Christian Middleton Shaunicy Muhammad Ashton Pittman William Pittman Aliyah Veal
KARK 4 News Caitrin Assaf Gary Burton Jr. Bob Clausen Stephen Goodale Kian McMahan Laura Monteverdi Jessica Ranck LV Randall
FOX 16 News/KLRT Kimberely Blackburn Cole Clevenger Tylisa Hampton Julian Jones Ashlei King Kevin Kelly John Matthews Ronni Romero Carmen Rose Donna Terrell Neale Zeringue
KNWA News/FOX 24 Anna Darling Brad Horn Chad Mira Lauren Motley Ethan Sam
THV11 Breandan Conyers Skot Covert Sarah Horbacewicz Lauren Johnston Zach Keast Kelly Tibbit
WVLT, Knoxville Ben Cathey Aimee Fowler Will Puckett Harry Sullivan Casey Wheeless
KATV Cassandra Webb
Little Rock Public Radio/National Public Radio Daniel Breen Josie Lenora Maggie Ryan
University of Arkansas at Little Rock Angelita Faller
Ouachita Baptist University Chase Hartsell
LSU Tiger TV Metia Carroll Adam Guttuso Haylee Kennedy Miguel Paredes Reyes Erin Rogers Ella Wales
The Herald/Arkansas State University Caroline Averitt Jerry Don Burton Rebecca Robinson Rachel Rudd Shelby Russom Elijah Templeton
The Reveille/LSUReveille.com Alison Agena Emily Bracher John Buzbee Colin Falcon Cross Harris Frank Kidd Lauren Madden Jacob Mathews Garrett McEntee Lyla McGuire Matthew Pellittieri Chloe Richmond Olivia Tomlinson Reveille Editorial Board
Delta Digital News Service Caroline Averitt Ibuki Hinohara Avery Jones Atsuki Ohbuchi
501 Life Magazine Tammy Keith
Madison County Record Ellen Kreth
The Daily Citizen Greg Geary
Law 360 Daniel Connolly Matt Fair Emily Field Allison Grande Jon Hill Brandon Lowrey
The Christian Chronicle Audrey Jackson Bobby Ross Jr.
World Christian Broadcasting/KNLS/WorldChristian.org Paul Ladd
