Joan M. Friedenberg Online Journalism Award
Named in memory of Joan M. Friedenberg, founding editor of the Online NewsHour and late wife of former National Press Club President Jonathan D. Salant, this award recognizes excellence in online journalism.
The award honors original reporting that makes effective use of digital tools and technology — such as interactive databases, primary-source interviews, multimedia elements, and data visualizations — to produce a thorough, engaging, and visually compelling report. Eligible work should demonstrate how online platforms enhance storytelling beyond what print or broadcast formats alone can provide.
Both online-only journalism and digital components that accompany print or broadcast reporting are eligible. In the latter case, entrants must clearly demonstrate how the online elements enhanced and expanded the original reporting.
Entry Requirements:
- Entries must focus on a single topic
- Up to five (5) entries, which will be judged as one unit
- Specific URLs must be provided for all submitted materials, or entrants must clearly identify a designated area of the site where award materials can be found
- Submissions must substantially represent how the work appeared during the award year
- A cover letter explaining why the entry deserves the award is required
Prize: $1000
General Eligibility:
Through its journalism awards, the National Press Club seeks to recognize and honor professional journalists who have produced outstanding work in service of the public, either independently or as employees of editorially independent news organizations.
In evaluating entries, judges will give weight to evidence of:
- Individual enterprise
- Fairness
- Accuracy
- Objectivity
The following are not eligible:
- Content produced for house organs
- Theses or academic reports
- Advocacy outlets operated by interest groups, including trade associations, consumer organizations, or government agencies
Entries may be submitted by journalists or by their employers. Entrants are responsible for ensuring judges can access all submitted materials and must provide passwords or access credentials where required.
Non-traditional entrants are welcome, provided they clearly explain in supporting materials how their work meets the Club’s journalistic standards. Such entrants should include a brief statement describing their editorial independence.