The Arkansas Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists will begin accepting entries for our Diamond Journalism Awards in January 2027. The contest will be for work published or broadcast in 2026 by professional and student journalists, freelancers and communications professionals in:
Arkansas
Louisiana
Mississippi
Missouri
Oklahoma
Tennessee
Texas
Entry fees start at $10.
The contest also includes $15,000 in A-Mark Prizes for investigative reporting that has a connection to Arkansas.
Winners 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
From left, Arkansas SPJ President Sarah Campbell-Miller, A-Mark Prize Winner Chris Fulton, and Alison Fulton. The Fultons operate the Mountain Home Observer online newspaper.
Chris Fulton of Mountain Home Observer receives first, second place A-Mark Prize; Warwick Sabin, Heather Baker shared insights on the changing journalism landscape
LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists celebrated the best of journalism across the region Saturday evening during the 2026 Diamond Journalism Awards presented by AY Media Group. The event recognized finalists and winners in nearly 80 categories, with more than 125 in attendance, and the second annual A-Mark Prize for Investigative Reporting was awarded for exceptional Arkansas reporting.
The A-Mark Prize, sponsored by the A-Mark Foundation and presented by Arkansas SPJ, awarded $15,000 to two writers and their newsrooms, as one writer was awarded first and second place.
Chris Fulton of the Mountain Home Observer was awarded first place for his “The 29 Warnings That Didn’t Matter.” He was also the second-place winner for his “Taxation, Power and Secrecy: Inside the Briarcliff Governance Collapse.” The first place award garnered $5,000 for him and $2,500 for his newsroom. For second place, he received $3,000, and the Mountain Home Observer received $1,500.
The judges said: “Though I would ordinarily be hesitant to award the top two places to the same person, especially with money on the line, Chris Fulton nails it with his use of primary sources, his high-quality organization, his easy-to-understand writing, and his efforts to take on big projects.”
Josh Snyder of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette was awarded third place for his extensive coverage of the LEARNS Act. He received $2,000. The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette received $1,000. The judge noted “Mr. Snyder’s coverage of education efforts in the state takes the bronze here as he fairly lays out for readers what efforts are being undertaken to improve education in Arkansas.”
Additional special awards included Arkansas SPJ’s top honor of Diamond Journalist of the Year, which was presented to Dwain Hebda of Ya!Mule Wordsmiths and editor-in-chief of AY Media Group. This year’s Student Journalist of the Year was Erika Konig of the University of Memphis. Arkansas SPJ additionally presented her with a $1,000 scholarship.
The keynote conversation this year was between Heather Baker, president and publisher of AY Media Group, and Warwick Sabin, president and CEO of Deep South Today, a nonprofit network of local newsrooms set to launch a statewide outlet called Arkansas Today in fall 2026. The two shared insights on the changing media landscape and the importance of collaboration across the industry.
From left, Warwick Sabin, president and CEO of Deep South Today, and Heather Baker, president and publisher of AY Media Group, discuss the future of journalism.
“It was a privilege to keynote the evening alongside Warwick Sabin,” Baker said. “Having known Warwick since the early 2000s, it was wonderful to reconnect and have an open conversation about the future of journalism. While the media landscape has changed dramatically, one thing remains true: there is tremendous value in collaboration. Journalism is strongest when we work together to inform our communities with accuracy, integrity, and purpose.”
This year’s contest drew 591 entries and was judged by SPJ members from Connecticut. Divisions spanned professional journalism, student journalism, and communications. Sonseeahray Tonsall, anchor of KARK Arkansas Today, was this year’s emcee.
“Arkansas SPJ is overjoyed and honored to not only celebrate the best journalism from across the region, but to partner with the A-Mark Foundation in recognizing with monetary awards the critical importance of investigative reporting,” said Sarah Campbell-Miller, president of Arkansas SPJ. “The evening’s keynote conversation laying out the opportunity that lies before us was fascinating. It is an exhilarating time to be in this profession. We are so very proud of all of the winners and finalists and their wonderful work.”
In addition to presenting sponsor AY Media Group, the 2026 Diamond Journalism Awards event was sponsored by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, the University of Memphis, the Arkansas Advocate and Crafton Tull. The annual contest will begin accepting entries for the 2027 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: Chris Fulton, Mountain Home Observer, The 29 Warnings That Didn’t Matter
Second Place: Chris Fulton, Mountain Home Observer, Taxation, Power and Secrecy: Inside the Briarcliff Governance Collapse
Third Place: Josh Snyder, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, LEARNS Act Coverage
SPECIAL AWARDS
CHARLOTTE TILLAR SCHEXNAYDER PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD
Winner: Rebecca Cadenhead, Charity Scott, Kevin Wurm, Andrea Morales, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism, No School, No Fresh Air and Isolated: Solitary Confinement in Shelby County’s Juvenile Detention Center
Finalists: Erika Konig, Meghnad Bose, Daniel Connolly, David Waters, Institute for Public Service Reporting, Abuses of the Immigration Crackdown
Tammy Keith, Log Cabin Democrat, Conway School District Coverage
GARRICK FELDMAN COMMUNITY JOURNALISM AWARD
Winner: Lia Portillo, Marshall News Messenger, Coverage of the Hispanic Community in East Texas
EMERGING JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR
Winner: Illan Ireland, Mississippi Free Press, Ag & Water Desk
Finalists: Ainsley Platt, Arkansas Advocate
Matt Byrne, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
STUDENT JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR
Winner: Erika Konig, University of Memphis
Finalist: Caden Dyer, The Daily Beacon, University of Tennessee-Knoxville
DIAMOND JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR
Winner: Dwain Hebda, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths
Finalists: Bill Bowden, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Bobby Ross Jr., The Christian Chronicle and Religion Unplugged
CRAFT ACHIEVEMENT
OUTSTANDING TV NEWS WRITER
Winner: Kevin Kelly, KLRT Fox 16
Finalist: Ashlei King, KLRT Fox 16
OUTSTANDING TV EDITOR
Winner: Lauren Motley, KNWA/Fox24 Fayetteville
OUTSTANDING COMMUNICATIONS PROFESSIONAL
Winner: Staci Miller, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Finalists: Heather Baker, AY Media Group
Wendy Jordan, Crafton Tull
OUTSTANDING PRINT/ONLINE EDITOR
Winner: Sarah DeClerk, AY Media Group
Finalist: Ashton Pittman, Mississippi Free Press
OUTSTANDING PHOTOGRAPHER – ALL MEDIA
Winner: Thomas Metthe, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Finalist: Colin Murphey, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
OUTSTANDING NEWS ANCHOR
Winner: Kimberly Rusley, KFDM 6
OUTSTANDING METEOROLOGIST
Winner: Darby Bybee, KHBS/KHOG
OUTSTANDING SPORTS REPORTER
Winner: Matt Byrne, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
PRINT/ONLINE
CONTINUING COVERAGE
Winner: Staff, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism/ProPublica, The Memphis Safe Task Force
Finalists: Erika Konig, Meghnad Bose, Daniel Connolly, David Waters, Marc Perrusquia, Marc Perrusquia, Institute for Public Service Reporting, Immigration Crackdown in Memphis
Sophie Bates, David A. Lieb, Illan Ireland, M.K. Wilderman, Alex Rozier, Mississippi Free Press, Associated Press, Mississippi Today, Tylertown Tornado Aftermath
CRITICISM/REVIEWS
Winner: Philip Martin, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Philip Martin Portfolio
Finalists: Andrew DeMillo, The Associated Press, Book Reviews
Kimberley Jones, The Austin Chronicle, Film Reviews
EDITORIALS
Winner: David Barham, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Editorials on “Punching Down”
Finalists: Jonathan Feldman, Leader Newspaper, Editorials by Feldman
Tommy Foltz, The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Tommy Foltz Portfolio of Editorials
Finalists: Daniel Connolly, Matt Fair, Hilary Russ, Vince Sullivan, Orlando Lorenzo, Law360 (Legal news service), For These Victims, Death Came Before Bankruptcy Resolution
Micaela Watts, Marc Perrusquia, Institute for Public Service Reporting, Are Memphis Police Over-Charging Motorists Caught With Marijuana?
PROFILES
Winner: Jane Roberts, Mary Cashiola, The Daily Memphian, For Memphis’ First COVID Patient, Early Pandemic Was Personal
Finalists: Brant Bingamon, The Austin Chronicle, If You Build It…
Dwain Hebda, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths for AY Magazine, #Me First
EXPLANATORY REPORTING
Winner: Phillip Powell, Arkansas Times, Dirt Rich, Cash Poor: As Economic Pressures Mount, Some Delta Farmers Hoe Their Last Row
Torsheta Jackson, Heather Harrison, Ashton Pittman, Jaylin Smith, Mississippi Free Press, Academic Freedom at Mississippi Schools and Universities Under the New Trump Administration
Finalists: Ella McCarthy, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Arkansas Officials Reviewing Handling of 341 Child Abuse Reports After Botched Mountain Home Incident
Nick Judin, Kevin Edwards, Ashton Pittman, Mississippi Free Press, Trey Reed’s Hanging Death in the Mississippi Delta
SPORTS FEATURE
Winner: Matt Campbell, Arkansas Times, All the Singlet ladies: Little Rock Central High’s Girls Wrestling Team Dominates the State
Finalists: Bobby Ross Jr., Religion Unplugged, A pitch to follow Jesus: Baseball fans embrace players’ faith testimonies
Doug Crise, Arkansas Money & Politics, Razorback Hockey
COMMENTARY
Winner: Donna Ladd, Mississippi Free Press, Donna Ladd’s Democracy Essays
Philip Martin, The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Portfolio of columns by Philip Martin
INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING
Winner: Emma Murphy, Oklahoma Voice, Oklahoma A&M Regent Meetings Cost Nearly $70K with Pricey Meals and Entertainment, Records Show
Finalists: Aarron Fleming, Jane Donahoe, The Daily Memphian, Inside 201 Poplar
Rebecca Cadenhead, Charity Scott, Kevin Wurm, Andrea Morales, MLK50: Justice Through Journalism, No school, No Fresh Air and Isolated: Solitary Confinement in Shelby County’s Juvenile Detention Center
AUDIO
ENTERPRISE/EXPLANATORY REPORTING
Winner: Laura Kebede-Twumasi, Institute for Public Service Reporting and WKNO-FM public radio, The Long Arc of Police Violence in Memphis
Finalists: Danny Wicentowski, St. Louis Public Radio, Surveillance Video Shows a Violent Attack and Carjacking. Hazelwood is Prosecuting the Victim
Maggie Ryan, Little Rock Public Radio, Nonprofit Teaches Culinary Arts to Help Arkansans Overcome Cycles of Poverty
INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING
Winner: Erika Konig, Institute for Public Service Reporting and WKNO-FM Public Radio, An American Nightmare
Finalist: Danny Wicentowski, St. Louis Public Radio, The Gentle Barn Closure Left Heartbreak Behind in Missouri. Then Animals Started Dying
EDUCATION
Winner: Maggie Ryan, National Public Radio, Black Colleges and Universities Reach Out to Students Left Stranded by Job Corps Cuts
Finalists: Josie Lenora, Little Rock Public Radio, Free School Breakfast Up for Debate in Arkansas Legislature
NEWS
Winner: Josie Lenora, Little Rock Public Radio, Arkansas White Supremacist Group Draws International Attention
POLITICS
Winner: Josie Lenora, Little Rock Public Radio, Christians Divided Over Arkansas Law to Mandate Ten Commandments
ONGOING COVERAGE
Winner: Nathan Treece, Josie Lenora, Maggie Ryan, Emma Bertram, Little Rock Public Radio, No Kings Protest Coverage
FEATURES
Winner: Josie Lenora, Little Rock Public Radio, CALS Used Book Sale Draws Crowds
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT COVERAGE
Winner: Paul Ladd, World Christian Broadcasting’s New Life Station and worldchristian.org, Paul McCartney at the Frist
Winner: Donnie Sewell, Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts, Summer 2025 Tangents ASMSA
Finalists: Emily Partridge, Heifer International, Caring for the Earth | Focusing on the Future: Renewable Energy
Emily Partridge, Heifer International, Power in Numbers: Women’s Climb to Wealth
PHOTOGRAPHY
Winner: Wendy Jordan, Crafton Tull, Searcy Community Center Groundbreaking
Finalist: Amye Buckley, Crafton Tull, Bob Crafton’s Bike Ride
NEWSLETTER
Winner: Angelita Faller, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, UA Little Rock Now
PRESS RELEASE WRITING
Winner: Angelita Faller, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Research Study Co-authored by 16 UA Little Rock Students Finds Raccoons Show Early Signs of Domestication
Finalist: Chase Hartsell, Ouachita Baptist University, Bill Vining Sr. Remembered for Excellence, Leadership On and Off the Court
SPECIAL TOPICS
BUSINESS
Winner: Mark Carter, Arkansas Money & Politics, Air Arkansas
Finalists: Mark Carter, Arkansas Money & Politics, The White Sands of Arkansas
Dwain Hebda, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths for Arkansas Money & Politics, One of One
Finalists: Frank Lockwood, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Religion Coverage on State, National and International Levels
Erik Tryggestad, The Christian Chronicle, Religion Reporting by Erik Tryggestad
HEALTH
Winner: Dwain Hebda, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths for AY Media Group, Health Package
Finalist: Stephanie Smittle, Arkansas Times, State of Decay: No Easy Fix for Arkansas’s Dental Health Problems
SPORTS
Winner: Roger Amos, Mississippi Free Press, Battle of Nations Brings Mississippi Choctaw, Eastern Cherokee Together for Football Match
Finalists: Chase Hartsell, Ouachita Baptist University Athletics, Tiger Tidbits: Celebrating 130 Years of Ouachita’s Football Team
Tom Murphy, Matt Byrne, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Comprehensive Coverage of State’s Top Athletic Program
ENVIRONMENT/SCIENCE
Winner: Dwain Hebda, Catherine Frederick, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths for Do South Magazine, Keeper of the Swarm
Finalists: Chris Fulton, Mountain Home Observer, Power, Pollution, and Policy in Arkansas
Illan Ireland, William Pittman, Mississippi Free Press, Ag & Water Desk, Mississippi’s Environment, From Industrial Pollution to the Yazoo Pumps Project
STUDENT JOURNALISM
PHOTOGRAPHY
Winner: Meredith Lipsey, The Echo, StepAfrika Steps Up to the Stage
Finalist: Meredith Lipsey, The Echo, Evansvillle Aces Baseball Bears in Final Series Game, 8-0
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.
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
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.
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
Welcome to the revamped 2024 Diamond Journalism Awards. We’ve added several new categories this year and reorganized categories by overall divisions for easier navigation. For entry rules go here.
The divisions:
DIVISION 1 – PRINT/ONLINE recognizes reporting and storytelling via the written word.
DIVISION 2 – TELEVISION recognizes visual reporting and storytelling via televised media.
DIVISION 3 – RADIO/AUDIO recognizes spoken-word reporting and storytelling via radio or podcast.
DIVISION 4 – SPECIAL TOPICS recognizes reporting and storytelling on certain topics from entrants regardless of medium.
DIVISION 5 – VISUAL JOURNALISM recognizes photography, graphics and design regardless of medium.
DIVISION 6 – COMMUNICATIONS recognizes reporting and storytelling by a public relations, communications or marketing professional or group regardless of medium or business affiliation.
DIVISION 7 – STUDENT JOURNALISM recognizes reporting and storytelling by student journalists regardless of medium.
DIVISION 8 – CRAFT ACHIEVEMENT recognizes excellence in the craft of news presentation.
DIVISION 9 – DIAMOND AWARDS recognizes outstanding work regardless of the medium for community journalism, public service reporting, freedom of information reporting, best new journalist, best student journalist and journalist of the year.
DIVISION 1: PRINT/ONLINE
(Entries accepted from print and online-only publications)
BREAKING NEWS – For clear, accurate and engaging coverage of a single, unexpected news event by an individual or team. Judges will consider deadline pressure and the complexity of the subject. Submit up to three articles from same-day coverage, including sidebars or related multimedia content.
GENERAL NEWS – For non-breaking news coverage. It may include planned coverage of a single event or in-depth reporting. Submit up to three articles and any related multimedia content.
CONTINUING COVERAGE – For ongoing coverage of a topic or significant event over time, demonstrating solid reporting and presentation with complexity and perspective. Submit up to five stories along with any related multimedia content. Entries may include a mix of story types.
ENTERPRISE/IN-DEPTH REPORTING – For coverage that reflects initiative, ingenuity, use of sources and/or special research to dig deeper or capture more complexity than a typical news story. Submit a single story or a series of up to three stories and any related multimedia content. Entry can be by an individual or team.
INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING – For reporting that demonstrates initiative, persistence and resourcefulness in pursuing information that is restricted, hidden by officials or not readily available and is of public interest and significance. COVER LETTER REQUIRED, explaining reporting process and impact or results. Submit one story or a series of no more than six stories and any related multimedia content.
EXPLANATORY REPORTING – For reporting and writing that makes clear significant stories and complex situations that deepen understanding of a subject or focus on subjects covered minimally or not at all by most media. Submit one story or a series of no more than six stories and any related multimedia content.
EDITORIALS – For opinion writing representing a news organization’s position on a topic or issue. Judges will consider the value to the community, writing style, reasoning, originality and reader interest. Submit three editorials as one entry.
COMMENTARY – For commentary or analysis by an individual. News-oriented blogs are also eligible. Judges will consider the quality of expression, clarity and originality. Submit three columns as one entry.
FEATURES – For individual storytelling excellence. Judges will consider the use of narrative, humor or drama, style, creativity, clarity and suitability of the writing to the subject. Submit one story.
PROFILES – For reporting that depicts the character and personality of a story subject. Submit one story.
SPORTS – For coverage of any sport or athletic endeavor. Judges will consider clarity and style. Submit a single story or no more than three stories representing continuing coverage of a single topic.
SPORTS FEATURE – For outstanding storytelling about athletic participants or a sport itself. Submit a single story.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT COVERAGE – For coverage of the arts, entertainment or other cultural news. Entry may include news, profiles and features. Judges will consider the quality of the writing and presentation and, where appropriate, analysis. Submit up to three stories on a single topic or various topics.
CRITICISM/REVIEWS – For writing demonstrating a journalist’s competence in evaluating performance, restaurants, books, recorded music or other cultural events or entities. Submit three pieces by one author as one entry.
EDUCATION – For coverage of schools, teaching or education-related topics by an individual, team or staff. Submit up to five samples and any related multimedia content as one entry.
POLITICS – For coverage of public issues, elections, political campaigns, candidates, campaign finance or government by an individual, team or staff. Submit up to five stories and related multimedia content as one entry.
SPECIAL SECTION/NICHE PUBLICATION – For a niche publication or special section devoted to a single topic. Judges will consider the depth of coverage, presentation, and quality of writing. Submit one section or niche publication.
DIVISION 2: TELEVISION
(Entries accepted from broadcast and cable TV outlets or other video outlets)
GENERAL NEWS GATHERING ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
The original video and submission length may be at most 10 minutes for single news entries. Eligible multipart news series entries may include two (2) but at most five (5) separate reports from the series. The total submission time limit for news series entries may be at most 15 minutes.
BREAKING NEWS – For coverage of a single unexpected news event that highlights urgency. Submit a video from same-day coverage. Submission length must not exceed 10 minutes.
CONTINUING COVERAGE – For ongoing coverage of a topic or significant event over time. Entry should not be longer than 15 minutes.
EXPLANATORY REPORTING – For coverage of a complex issue that clearly explains a topic or event from start to finish. Entry should not be longer than 15 minutes.
INVESTIGATIVE – For a single report or series that focuses on one subject matter and includes extensive research. Entry should not be longer than 15 minutes.
NEWS FEATURE – For a single story that includes a personal, emotional or creative slant beyond just gathering facts. Entry should not be longer than 15 minutes.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT – For general entertainment and/or performing arts coverage. Entry should not be longer than 15 minutes.
CRIME/JUSTICE – For coverage of crime, victims or justice-related topics. Entry should not be longer than 15 minutes.
PROFILES – For coverage of an individual who has overcome obstacles or made significant contributions to their community. Entry should not be longer than 15 minutes.
EDUCATION – For coverage of schools, teaching or education-related topics. Entry should not be longer than 15 minutes.
POLITICS – For coverage of political, civil or government-related topics. Entry should not be longer than 15 minutes.
WEATHER – For coverage of a weather-related event. Entry should not be longer than 15 minutes.
SPORTS STORY– For coverage of a single sporting event, athletes, coaches and other related topics. Entry should not be longer than 15 minutes.
SPORTS PROGRAM – For a daily or weekly sports program, which can be live or pre-recorded. Maximum run time: 30 minutes.
NEWSCAST – For excellence in a regularly scheduled newscast. Judges will consider overall content, presentation, enterprise, writing, format, teases, etc. NOTE: This award is for producers only. Please remove all commercial breaks with 2 seconds of black between each break. For newscasts exceeding 30 minutes, entrants may submit up to 3 excerpts.
DIVISION 3: RADIO/AUDIO
(Entries accepted from broadcast radio, podcasts and other outlets producing audio)
BREAKING NEWS – For clear, accurate and engaging coverage of a single unexpected news event by an individual or team. Judges will consider deadline pressure and the complexity of the subject. Submit audio from same-day coverage. Submission length must not exceed 15 minutes.
GENERAL NEWS – For non-breaking news coverage. It may include planned coverage of a single event or in-depth reporting. Submit audio from a single story. Submission length must not exceed 15 minutes.
CONTINUING COVERAGE – For ongoing coverage of a topic or significant event over time, including several reports over some time. Entry should not be longer than 15 minutes.
ENTERPRISE/EXPLANATORY REPORTING – For coverage that reflects initiative, ingenuity, use of sources and/or special research to dig deeper or capture more complexity than a typical news story. Submit audio from a single report or a series of reports not longer than 30 minutes in total. Entry can be by an individual or team.
INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING – 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. COVER LETTER REQUIRED, explaining reporting process and impact or results. Submit a single piece or a series on the same topic with a maximum combined run time of 60 minutes.
FEATURES – For individual storytelling excellence. Judges will consider the use of narrative, humor or drama, style and creativity beyond just gathering facts. Submit one story of not more than 15 minutes.
PROFILES – For reporting that depicts the character and personality of a story subject. Submit one story of no more than 15 minutes.
SPORTS – For coverage of any sport or athletic endeavor, including features about athletes or a specific sport. Judges will consider clarity and style. Submit audio of no more than three reports covering a single topic with a run time of 15 minutes or less.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT – For coverage of the arts, entertainment or other cultural news. Entry may include news, profiles and features. Judges will consider the quality of the writing and presentation and, where appropriate, analysis. Submit up to three stories on a single topic or various issues with a total run time of not longer than 15 minutes.
EDUCATION – For coverage of schools, teaching or education-related topics by an individual or team. Submit up to five audio pieces with a run time of not more than 15 minutes.
POLITICS – For coverage of public issues, elections, political campaigns, candidates, campaign finance or government by an individual or team. Submit up to five audio pieces with a total run time of not more than 15 minutes.
DIVISION 4: SPECIAL TOPICS – ALL MEDIA
(Entries accepted from any medium)
HEALTH – For reporting clearly on health, including medicine, community health and health policy, and the health effects of COVID-19 by an individual or team. Print/online: Submit three to five stories and related multimedia content as one entry. TV/Radio/Audio: An entry should not exceed 15 minutes.
ENVIRONMENT/SCIENCE – For reporting by an individual or team on environmental issues, including climate change; or science, including technology, and the impacts on individuals and society. Print/online: Submit three to five stories and related multimedia content as one entry. TV/Radio/Audio: An entry should not exceed 15 minutes.
RELIGION – For reporting by an individual or team on religion, issues of faith or spirituality. Print/online: Submit three to five stories and related multimedia content as one entry. TV/Radio/Audio: An entry should not exceed 15 minutes.
BUSINESS – For coverage of business, finance or consumer issues by an individual, team or staff. Print/online: Submit three to five stories and any related multimedia content. TV/Radio/Audio: Submit up to five audio pieces with a maximum run time of 15 minutes.
DIVISION 5: VISUAL JOURNALISM & DESIGN
(Entries accepted from any medium)
BREAKING NEWS PHOTOGRAPHY – For photojournalism produced on deadline. Judges will consider deadline pressure, the complexity of the subject and visual presentation. Submit photos with cutlines from up to three stories as one entry, but no more than six images. Be sure to include the accompanying story or link to the story.
GENERAL NEWS PHOTOGRAPHY – For photojournalism by an individual for any non-deadline news event. Submit a single photo with a cutline/caption. Link to or include accompanying story – if any.
FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHY – For feature photography by an individual. Submit a single photo with a cutline/caption. Link to or include the accompanying story, if any, or contextual information.
PHOTO SPREAD/ESSAY – For a group of photographs on a single theme published as part of a single story or as a stand-alone layout. Submit no more than six images with cutlines. Link to or include the accompanying story or contextual information.
GRAPHICS/ILLUSTRATIONS – For infographics, illustrations or data visualizations. Submit up to three examples by an individual or team as one entry, including the associated stories or links to them online.
FRONT PAGE DESIGN-NEWSPAPERS – For layout that enhances and improves audience experience and engagement. Submit PDFs or links of up to three pages as one entry.
COVER DESIGN-MAGAZINES – For layout that enhances and improves audience experience and engagement. Submit PDFs or links of up to three pages as one entry.
WEB DESIGN – For presentation that enhances and improves audience experience and engagement. Submit PDFs or links of up to three pages as one entry.
DIVISION 6: COMMUNICATIONS
(Entries accepted from marketing and PR firms and corporate communications teams)
PRESS RELEASE WRITING – For excellence in press release writing by an individual published or distributed by a business or organization. Submit a PDF or link to a single press release.
FEATURE WRITING – For excellence in feature writing by an individual published or distributed by a business or organization. Submit a PDF or link to a single feature story.
PHOTOGRAPHY – For excellence in photography by an individual published or distributed by a business or organization. Submit a jpeg, png, PDF or link to a single photo.
CAMPAIGN – For excellence in the creation and execution of any advertising, marketing or promotional campaign by an individual or group that was published or distributed to promote a business or organization’s specific objectives. This includes social media, digital, print, multimedia, advertising, internal promotion, direct mailing, printed booklets, etc. or any combination of these items. Submit PDFs or links to at least three pieces of the campaign and a description of the campaign’s goals, execution details and any available results.
NEWSLETTER – For excellence in newsletters for corporations, nonprofits or other organizations. Submit up to three newsletters via links or PDFs with confirmation of send.
PROMOTIONAL PUBLICATIONS – For excellence in publications intended for an audience other than an internal audience. Submit one complete publication via PDF or link.
DIVISION 7: STUDENT JOURNALISM – ALL MEDIA
STUDENT-SPECIAL PROJECTS – For special projects that show exemplary reporting, writing, photography or videography. These should be student-generated and not part of an ongoing university-sponsored project. COVER LETTER REQUIRED.
STUDENT-BREAKING NEWS – For clear, accurate and engaging coverage of a single, unexpected news event by individuals or teams. Judges will consider deadline pressure and the complexity of the subject. Submit up to three articles, audio or video from same-day coverage, including sidebars or related multimedia content.Audio and video clips should not exceed 15 minutes.
STUDENT-GENERAL NEWS – For non-breaking news coverage. It may include planned coverage of a single event or in-depth reporting. Submit up to three articles, audio or video, including sidebars or related multimedia content. Audio and video clips should not exceed 15 minutes.
STUDENT-FEATURES – For individual storytelling excellence. Judges will consider the use of narrative, humor or drama, style, creativity, clarity and suitability of the content to the subject. Submit one story. Audio and video entries should not exceed 15 minutes.
STUDENT-SPORTS – For coverage of any sport or athletic endeavor regardless of platform. Judges will consider clarity and style. Submit a single story or no more than three stories representing continuing coverage of a single topic. Audio and video clips should not exceed 15 minutes.
STUDENT-EDITORIALS – For opinion writing representing a news outlet’s position on a topic or issue. Judges will consider the value to the community, style, reasoning, originality, and audience interest. Submit three editorials as one entry. Audio and video entries should not exceed 15 minutes.
STUDENT-COMMENTARY – For commentary or analysis by an individual. Blogs are eligible. Judges will consider the quality of expression, clarity, and originality. Submit three pieces as one entry. Maximum run time for video or audio: 15 minutes.
STUDENT-ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT REPORTING – For coverage of arts, entertainment, restaurants and other cultural news. Entry may include columns, profiles or features. Judges will consider the quality of the content and presentation and, where appropriate, analysis. Submit three samples as one entry. Maximum run time for video or audio: 15 minutes.
STUDENT-CRITICISM/REVIEWS – For analysis demonstrating a journalist’s competence in evaluating performances, restaurants, books, recorded music, motion pictures or other cultural events or entities. Submit three samples as one entry. Maximum run time for video or audio: 15 minutes.
STUDENT-BUSINESS – For coverage of consumer issues, business or finance, including the college athletics industry and the finances of institutions of higher learning. Judges will consider clarity and readability. Submit a single story or no more than three stories representing continuing coverage of a single topic. Maximum run time for video or audio: 15 minutes.
STUDENT-EDUCATION – For coverage of education and academic policy, including institutions of higher education, teacher training and educational research. Judges will consider clarity and thoroughness. Submit three stories as one entry. Maximum run time for video or audio: 15 minutes.
STUDENT-NEWS PHOTO – For photojournalism by an individual of breaking or general news. Judges will consider visual presentation and photographic techniques. Submit one photo with an accompanying cutline/caption or video clip of not more than five minutes. Please include the accompanying story or link the story.
STUDENT-FEATURE PHOTO – For feature photography by an individual. Judges will consider the complexity of the subject and visual presentation. Submit one photo with an accompanying cutline/caption. Please include the accompanying story or link the story, if any.
STUDENT-PHOTO SPREAD/ESSAY – For a group of photographs on a single theme published as part of a single story or as a stand-alone layout. Submit the page or up to six images with cutlines/captions and an explanation of the context or the accompanying story or text. Links are acceptable.
STUDENT-PHOTO PORTFOLIO – For photography that shows the work of a single photographer. Submit three to five photos with cutlines/captions.
STUDENT-GRAPHICS/ILLUSTRATIONS — For infographics, illustrations or data visualizations. Submit three to five examples by an individual or team as one entry, including the associated stories or links to them online.
STUDENT-PAGE DESIGN – For presentation that improves audience experience and engagement in print or online. Submit three examples as one entry.
DIVISION 8 – CRAFT ACHIEVEMENT
(Recognizes excellence by an individual engaged in the craft of news presentation)
OUTSTANDING NEWS ANCHOR – Based on coverage of several topics, credibility, delivery, and overall talent. Entry can include segments from regular newscasts, news specials, breaking news, etc. Entry should be no longer than 15 minutes, with two seconds of black between each segment.
OUTSTANDING METEOROLOGIST – For regular weather segments or coverage of weather events. Entry should be no longer than 15 minutes, with two seconds of black between each segment.
OUTSTANDING SPORTS ANCHOR – For regular sports segments or coverage of special sports events. Entry should be no longer than 15 minutes, with two seconds of black between each segment.
OUTSTANDING TV NEWS WRITER – For excellence in news writing by an individual. Submit three to five excerpts as one entry. Maximum run time is 15 minutes, including two seconds of black between segments. Please include scripts.
OUTSTANDING TV EDITOR – For excellence in video editing by an individual. Submit three to five excerpts as one entry. Maximum run time is 15 minutes, including two seconds of black between segments.
OUTSTANDING PRINT/ONLINE EDITOR – For excellence in editing by line or copy editors. Submit three to five examples of how editing improved a reporter’s work. If possible, include original work or proof of edits for comparison.
OUTSTANDING TV PHOTOGRAPHER – For excellence in TV photography by an individual. Submit up to five excerpts as one entry. Maximum run time is 15 minutes, including two seconds of black between segments.
OUTSTANDING STILL PHOTOGRAPHER – For photography that shows the work of a single photographer. Submit or link three to five photos with cutlines/captions as one entry.
OUTSTANDING RADIO/PODCAST HOST – For excellence in program or podcast hosting. Submit no more than five excerpts showing the host’s work with two-second breaks between excerpts.
DIVISION 9 – DIAMOND HONORS – ALL MEDIA
(Entries accepted from all media)
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. Entry MUST INCLUDE A COVER LETTER providing background context and results, if any. Judges will consider the issue’s significance, journalistic initiative, presentation, and results, if any. Submit five to seven articles — stories and opinion pieces. Maximum total run time for audio and video entries: 30 minutes.
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. COVER LETTER REQUIRED. Submit stories, opinion pieces, letters or other material (including audio or video) demonstrating how the nominee contributed to protecting or enhancing the public’s right to know. Limit of 10 articles or audio/video pieces. Audio or video limited to 30 minutes total.
STUDENT JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR – For journalistic excellence demonstrated by an individual enrolled in an institution of higher learning. COVER LETTER REQUIRED.Submit a portfolio of five to seven pieces representative of work over the calendar year. Audio or video limited to 30 minutes total.
EMERGING JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR – For journalistic excellence demonstrated by an individual who has worked fewer than five years in journalism. COVER LETTER REQUIRED.Submit a portfolio of five to seven pieces representative of work over the year. Audio or video limited to 30 minutes total.
DIAMOND JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR – For reporting excellence by a journalist in any medium over the preceding year. COVER LETTER REQUIRED. Submit a portfolio of five to seven pieces representative of work over the year. Audio or video limited to 30 minutes total.
All professional and student journalists, freelancers and communications professionals residing in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas can submit entries or have entries submitted on their behalf by organizations that published or broadcast their work. Authors who reside in the contest states may submit work published or broadcast outside those states.
ALL ENTRIES MUST HAVE BEEN PUBLISHED OR BROADCAST IN CALENDAR YEAR 2023.
ENTRY DEADLINE: 11:59 P.M. CENTRAL, MARCH 11, 2024
Entries may be submitted in more than one category, but a separate entry fee is required for each category.
Any significant challenges or corrections to an entry must be noted with the entry. Failure to do so will result in disqualification of the entry.
All categories are open to Spanish language journalists. An English translation is not required, but it would be helpful.
Cover letters and supporting material are required only in conjunction with nominations for the following awards: Student Special Project, Student Journalist of the Year, Public Service, Community Journalism, FOI, Outstanding New Journalist and Diamond Journalist of the Year. Entrants in other categories may submit cover letters or supporting material at their discretion but should keep them brief.
Please ensure entry URLs remain valid through June 30, 2024, to accommodate judging and awards presentation.
Contest administrators reserve the right to combine entries in the same category from different platforms or circulation groups if an insufficient number of entries make the category non-competitive.
You DON’T have to be a member of the Society of Professional Journalists to enter, but members get a discount on entry fees. SPJ members must provide their membership number in order to qualify for the discount. You can join SPJ by submitting an application here. We suggest submitting entries after your SPJ membership has been confirmed.
ENTRY FEES
SPJ members: $10 per entry.
To claim the member fee, you must supply your SPJ member number (in the entry platform’s comments box). A team entry may claim the fee if at least one team member is an SPJ member. That person’s name and SPJ member number must be listed in the comments box.
Nonmembers: $20 per entry.
Student SPJ members: $5 per entry. Provide your member number.
Student nonmembers: $10 per entry.
No fees will be refunded.
HOW TO ENTER
The Diamond Journalism Awards uses the Better BNC contest management platform for entries and judging.
