2026 Green Eyeshade Awards: Celebrating Journalistic Excellence in the Southeast
2026 Green Eyeshade Awards: An Invitation to Journalists
The Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) has opened its doors for submissions to the 2026 Green Eyeshade Awards, a prestigious contest dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the best in journalism throughout the Southeastern United States. With a legacy that dates back to its inception in 1950, this event stands as the oldest regional journalism award in the country and continues to uplift the standards of journalistic excellence.
In the wake of a successful 75th anniversary, which witnessed a remarkable 57% increase in participation, the Green Eyeshade Awards evolve further by introducing an exciting new category: Spanish Language journalism. This move underscores SPJ's commitment to diversity and the representation of voices that resonate within various communities across the region, ensuring that critical stories are told and honored.
Eligibility and Scope of the Awards
The contest is open to both professional and student journalists from several southeastern states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, along with the territories of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. To be considered, articles, broadcasts, or online content must have been published, aired, or posted during the 2025 calendar year.
Contest Divisions
Participants can enter their work across six primary divisions:
- - Print & Digital Writing: Articles published either online or in traditional print media.
- - Graphics & Photography: Visual storytelling through compelling imagery and graphics.
- - Video & Television: Broadcast journalism that informs and engages the audience.
- - Audio & Radio: Aural narratives that capture the essence of the story.
- - Digital/Online: Innovative use of online platforms to deliver news.
- - Students: A dedicated division for emerging journalists showcasing their talent.
Each entry will be evaluated by a panel of experienced judges, comprising both active professionals and educators from beyond the Southeastern region. The judges have the discretion to award first, second, and third-place honors, with top winners in each category competing for the coveted **
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