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2026 Green Eyeshade Awards: Honoring Excellence in Journalism

The Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) has officially opened the entry submissions for the prestigious 2026 Green Eyeshade Awards, a longstanding tradition in recognizing excellence in journalism across the Southeastern United States. This esteemed award program, launched in 1950, continues to serve as a benchmark for quality journalism, promoting noteworthy storytelling and investigative work.

A Historic Milestone

Following a remarkable celebration of its 75th anniversary, where participation surged by an impressive 57%, the awards program is evolving once again in 2026. This year marks a significant milestone as it introduces its first-ever Spanish Language category. This new initiative underscores SPJ's commitment to inclusivity and aims to celebrate the diverse voices that contribute to the journalism landscape in the Southeast.

Who Can Enter?

The 2026 Green Eyeshade Awards are open to professional and student journalists who have published, broadcast, or posted work during the calendar year of 2025. The eligibility extends to journalists residing in the following states: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, in addition to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Contest Divisions

Candidates can submit their work in six major categories:
1. Print / Digital Writing
2. Graphics / Photography
3. Video / Television
4. Audio / Radio
5. Digital / Online
6. Students

Each of these divisions allows for a broad range of storytelling avenues and journalistic formats, encouraging participants to showcase their best efforts.

Judging Process

The Green Eyeshade Awards competition is managed by dedicated volunteers from SPJ, with entries being evaluated by a panel of both active and retired professionals and educators from outside the region. The judges are tasked with awarding first, second, and third-place honors in each category. The first-place winners then proceed to compete for the distinguished Best of Division honors, leading up to the ultimate accolade, the Green Eyeshade Award.

Important Deadlines

For interested journalists, the standard entry deadline is Monday, March 16, 2026. Those who require additional time can submit entries by the late deadline of Monday, March 30, 2026, albeit with an additional fee. It is advisable to enter early and review all category details on the contest website to avoid any last-minute complications.

Investment in Journalism

All net proceeds from the Green Eyeshade Awards initiative are allocated to professional development, training programs, and advocacy efforts aimed at bolstering journalistic integrity and excellence. SPJ remains a staunch advocate for professional growth in the face of a rapidly changing media landscape.

How to Enter

To take part in this prestigious competition, journalists can visit the SPJ Green Eyeshade Awards contest website, where they can find comprehensive descriptions of each category and submit their entries.

This award not only serves as recognition of hard work and dedication but also enhances the credibility and reach of the winning journalists. With the inclusion of a Spanish Language category, the SPJ strives to broaden its horizons and reflect the rich tapestry of journalism in the Southeast. This year's competition promises to unveil stories that capture the heart and soul of the region’s diverse communities, making it an exciting time for journalists in the Southeast U.S.