As we reflected on America’s 250th birthday this past weekend, many of us celebrated the people, principles, and institutions that have shaped our nation’s history. Among those enduring ideals is a free and independent press—an essential part of an informed public and a healthy democracy.
Every day, journalists across New England work to uncover the truth, explain complex issues, celebrate their communities, preserve local history, and hold powerful institutions accountable. Much of that work happens quietly, without fanfare. NENPA’s Fall Awards Program exists to recognize those efforts and celebrate the individuals and news organizations whose journalism informs, inspires, and serves the public.
Whether it’s a newsroom consistently delivering outstanding coverage, an investigative series exposing wrongdoing, an editorial that sparks community conversation, or a photograph that captures a defining moment, these awards recognize the work that strengthens journalism throughout New England.
Time is running out to get your entries in. The deadline to enter is Friday, July 10, 2026. The 2026 Fall Awards Program recognizes work published between June 1, 2025, and May 31, 2026.
As we reflect on the past year of journalism across New England, we encourage every eligible newsroom and journalist to submit the work that made the greatest difference for the communities they serve.
Entries are now open for these awards:
- New England Newspaper of the Year – Recognizes overall excellence in newspapers and online news organizations, judged by New England readers.
- Publick Occurrences Award – Honors the very best reporting and photojournalism produced by NENPA member newspapers each year.
- Allan B. Rogers Editorial Award – Recognizes distinguished editorial writing that informs public debate and reflects thoughtful leadership.
- New England First Amendment Award – Honors journalism that advances and protects freedom of information, open government, and First Amendment principles.
- AP Sevellon Brown New England Journalist of the Year – Recognizes an individual journalist whose body of work demonstrates exceptional achievement and service to the profession.
- Bob Wallack Community Journalism Award – Celebrates the accomplishments of someone who, over a sustained period of time, has faithfully served the community for which they are responsible and has played an active, constructive role in contributing to its quality of life.
- The Cornerstone Award – Recognizes and honors unsung heroes in our news organizations who meaningfully and significantly contribute to the accomplishments of our publications without recognition.
- New England Journalism Educator of the Year – Honors educators who inspire and prepare the next generation of journalists.
- A-Mark Prizes – Recognize outstanding investigative journalism that uncovers hidden truths, holds power to account, and creates meaningful public impact throughout New England. Entries submitted for the Publick Occurrences Award or the New England First Amendment Award are automatically considered for the A-Mark Prizes.
DOWNLOAD 2026 NEWSPAPER AWARDS GUIDELINES
Recognition is about more than receiving an award. It is about celebrating the journalism that informs our communities, strengthens civic life, and reminds us why a free press remains as essential today as it was at our nation’s founding.
If you have any questions about entering the awards, please email info@nenpa.com.