#United States #Miami #Green Eyeshade #SPJ Awards #Public Service Journalism

The Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) is proud to announce that its Green Eyeshade Awards, the largest and longest-standing regional journalism competition in the nation, is now accepting entries for its 75th anniversary. Since its inception in 1950, this prestigious award has celebrated journalistic excellence across the Southeastern United States and continues to evolve with the changing tides of the media landscape.

A Legacy of Excellence

The Green Eyeshade Awards have been a beacon for aspiring and veteran journalists alike. They honor exceptional work while encouraging the pursuit of truth and accountability in reporting. With this year's festivities, the SPJ is ensuring that the awards reflect the nuances and challenges faced by today's journalism professionals. The awards are now poised to cover a broader area with the inclusion of additional states and territories, namely Virginia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, expanding their previous reach to encompass fourteen states.

Revamped Categories Focus on Public Service

An exciting transformation this year is the addition of a dedicated category for Public Service Journalism in every division. This initiative underscores the importance of reporting that engenders social change, fosters awareness, and holds power accountable. By shining a light on issues that matter, these awards aim to motivate journalists to produce work that resonates with and benefits communities. Here are the newly highlighted categories:

• - Public Service in Written Journalism: This category acknowledges impactful articles focusing on pressing issues and advocating for positive change.
• - Public Service in Video/Television Journalism: Video projects that amplify marginalized voices and raise awareness of crucial topics will receive due recognition.
• - Public Service in Audio/Radio Journalism: With the rise of podcasts and audio formats, this section honors storytelling that informs and engages listeners.
• - Public Service in Digital Journalism: Digital projects that deliver significant public benefits through interactive storytelling or data will be celebrated.
• - Public Service in Visual Journalism: Photographs and graphics that tell compelling stories of social concerns will now have a dedicated spot.
• - Public Service in Student Journalism: Student journalists whose stories have sparked change within their school or community will also be recognized.

Supporting Journalists for a Better Future

Not only does the Green Eyeshade Awards spotlight outstanding journalism, but it also has a solid foundation of supporting the journalism community through training and programs. Since its inception, the net profits from the competition have been reinvested into initiatives that empower journalists, ensuring that the future generation has the tools they need to succeed.

A Call to Enter

The entry deadline for this year's awards is fast approaching. The entry fees have been maintained for over a decade, showcasing SPJ's commitment to accessibility for all journalists. Here’s a breakdown of the fees for this year:

• - Standard Entry Deadline: For entries submitted by April 14, SPJ members will pay $40, non-members $60, and students $20.
• - Late Entry Deadline: For those who miss the initial deadline, fees will rise to $60 for SPJ members, $80 for non-members, and $40 for students if submitted by April 28.

This year's contest promises to be a celebration of impactful journalism. As the SPJ continues to evolve, it invites submissions that reflect the vital role journalists play in promoting accountability and social equity in our communities.

For more information on categories, entry guidelines, and how to submit, visit the contest website today. Join the legacy and help shape the future of journalism through the Green Eyeshade Awards.