Scripps News Triumphs with Five Wins at the 2025 National Murrow Awards

Scripps News Triumphs at the 2025 National Murrow Awards

In an impressive display of journalistic excellence, Scripps News, part of The E.W. Scripps Company, and its associated local television stations have been awarded five prestigious 2025 National Edward R. Murrow Awards. The announcement was made by the Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA), highlighting the remarkable work in local journalism by these stations.

Celebrating Local Excellence

The Scripps local television stations that received recognition include WTVR in Richmond, Virginia; KSHB in Kansas City, Missouri; WFTS in Tampa, Florida; and KBZK in Bozeman, Montana. Each station demonstrated a commitment to community-informed reporting while maintaining rigorous standards across various news categories.

WTVR: A Consistent Performer

WTVR, the CBS affiliate in Richmond, was honored with the award for "Overall Excellence" in the small-market television category. This is particularly noteworthy as it marks WTVR's fifth National Murrow Award in just six years. Their past achievements include awards for categories such as "News Documentary," "News Series," and "Sports Reporting," showcasing their versatile and impactful storytelling approach.

KSHB: Breaking News Impact

In Kansas City, KSHB's coverage of breaking news earned them top honors in the large-market television category. The reporting on the Chiefs Super Bowl rally in February 2024 took a dramatic turn when violence erupted, leading to tragic outcomes for the community. Their coverage was credited for its timely and sensitive reporting on a situation that shocked local fans and residents alike.

WFTS: Journalism with Purpose

WFTS secured recognition for their hard-hitting piece on a student facing severe legal consequences due to an incident involving a teacher's aide. This investigation shed light on the complexities surrounding punishment for students with special needs, contributing to significant public discourse on the matter.

KBZK: Sports Reporting Spotlight

KBZK's award-winning segment highlighted a significant sporting event involving two high school wrestlers in Montana. By focusing on "The Match," KBZK captured not just a competitive spirit but also the emotional and cultural narratives surrounding high school sports in the state.

Scripps News: National Recognition

The national news entity, Scripps News, also made a remarkable impact by winning in the large digital organization category for an innovative documentary titled "In Real Life Hidden War." This hour-long documentary explored the ongoing conflict in the West Bank through both on-ground reporting and analytical insights, showcasing Scripps' commitment to in-depth journalism that connects global issues with local perspectives.

A Testament to Community Impact

Jeff Kiernan, Scripps' vice president of local news, emphasized the importance of the local connection in these awards. He stated, "The work from these four stations reflects a deep connection to the communities they serve. Because our reporters live and work alongside their audiences, they're there for the moments of celebration and the moments of grief."

As the 2025 National Murrow Award winners prepare to be honored at a gala in New York City this October, their achievements serve as a reminder of the vital role local journalism plays in shaping informed communities. Scripps News and its local affiliates continue to be leaders in the industry, setting benchmarks for quality reporting that resonate with audiences across various platforms.

For additional details about the awards and to see a complete list of the 2025 winners, please visit the RTDNA website.

About Scripps

Founded in 1878, The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ SSP) operates as a diversified media organization with a significant commitment to local journalism. With a footprint of over 60 stations in more than 40 markets, Scripps aims to connect communities through news and entertainment, reinforcing their motto that resonates with the very essence of their work: "Give light and the people will find their own way."