SPJ Contests - The Green Eyeshade Awards

THE CONTEST OPENS FOR ENTRIES MARCH 1

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Welcome to the 75th Annual Green Eyeshade Awards

INTRODUCING AN ALL-NEW CATEGORY LINEUP FOR 2025

CONTEST OVERVIEW

Since 1950, The Green Eyeshade Awards have recognized the very best journalism in the southeastern United States. To mark the competition’s 75th anniversary in 2025, the category lineup has been completely revamped to reflect contemporary journalism.

The 2025 competition recognizes work that was published, broadcast or posted in calendar year 2024. and is open to professional journalists working in: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands. The Student division is open to students attending colleges and universities in these same states and territories.

SPJ volunteers produce the contest. Active and retired professional journalists and journalism educators from outside the contest area judge the entries. Judges may award first-, second- and third-place honors in each category. First-place winners in each professional division then compete against each other for Best of Division honors. The seven Best of Division winners then compete for our Best of Show honor: The Green Eyeshade Award.

The complete list of honorees will be released in the summer. All entrants will be notified of the results by e-mail. There is no live presentation event; all honorees will receive an award certificate by mail.

ENTRY DEADLINES & FEES

Standard Entry Deadline: Mon 14 April at 11:59 p.m.

SPJ Members: $40 per entry
Non-Members: $60 per entry
Students: $20 per entry

Late Entry Deadline: Mon 28 April at 11:59 p.m.

SPJ Members: $60 per entry
Non-Members: $80 per entry
Students: $40 per entry

HOW TO ENTER

Submit all entries in the contest portal. You may enter work published, broadcast or posted in 2024. You may submit multiple entries in any category. You may submit any given entry into multiple categories, as long as it meets the category requirements.

QUESTIONS

Contact Contest Administrator Tim Dodson at tim@timdodson.com.

2025 CATEGORIES

DIVISION A: PRINT & DIGITAL WRITING

This division is open to all forms of writing, including newspapers, newsletters, magazines and online/digital.

A01. Breaking News Reporting: Timely coverage of breaking or deadline-driven events with accuracy, clarity, and speed. Submit up to three items.

A02. General News Writing: Comprehensive coverage of news topics through insightful, balanced, and impactful writing. Submit up to three items.

A03. Investigative Reporting: In-depth investigations that uncover significant truths through rigorous research and compelling storytelling. Submit up to five items. A supporting statement (400 words max) is recommended.

A04. Serious Feature Writing: Storytelling about people, events, or issues using narrative techniques, creativity, and depth. Submit up to three items.

A05. Light Feature Writing: Engaging stories that capture lighter topics, human-interest angles, or creative storytelling. Submit up to three items.

A06. Feature Series: Thematic, multi-part feature stories that use narrative techniques, in-depth reporting, and creativity to provide a comprehensive exploration of a topic or issue. Submit up to five items on a sinlge subject.

A07. Profile Writing: In-depth portrayals of individuals, organizations, or communities. Submit up to three items.

A08. Business & Economy Reporting: Coverage of business, finance, or economic topics that influence communities or industries. Submit up to three items.

A09. Public Affairs & Policy Reporting: Coverage of government policies, public services, and community issues with a focus on accountability and public impact. Submit up to three items.

A10. Government Reporting: Coverage of governance, policy-making, and the activities of local, state, or federal governments. Submit up to three items.

A11. Elections Reporting - National & Federal: Comprehensive and insightful coverage of elections, campaigns, and the electoral process, including federal and national contests. Submit up to three items.

A12. Elections Reporting - State & Local: Comprehensive and insightful coverage of elections, campaigns, and the electoral process, including state and local contests. Submit up to three items.

A13. Environmental Reporting: Coverage of environmental issues, climate change, and sustainability efforts. Submit up to three items.

A14. Health and Science Reporting: Coverage of health, scientific developments, or medical breakthroughs and their impact. Submit up to three items.

A15. Consumer Affairs Reporting: Reporting that addresses consumer rights, product safety, and economic concerns affecting everyday life. Submit up to three items.

A16. Deadline Disaster & Crisis Reporting: Immediate and timely coverage of natural disasters, crises, or emergencies, emphasizing accuracy and speed in reporting. Submit up to three items.

A17. Non-Deadline Disaster & Crisis Reporting: In-depth or reflective coverage of natural disasters, crises, or emergencies, with a focus on compassion, accuracy, and community impact. Submit up to three items.

A18. Courts, Crime & Law Reporting: Comprehensive coverage of legal issues, criminal justice, or major court cases, with a focus on thorough research and public impact. Submit up to three items.

A19. Sports Reporting: Dynamic coverage of sporting events, athletes, or sports-related issues. Submit up to three items.

A20. Travel Reporting: Compelling travel stories that offer vivid descriptions, cultural insights, and practical guidance. Submit up to three items.

A21. Lifestyle Reporting: Engaging stories related to lifestyle, design, fashion, and personal well-being. Submit up to three items.

A22. Criticism & Reviews: Thoughtful, well-crafted reviews of arts, culture, music, film, or literature. Submit up to three items.

A23. Entertainment Reporting: Coverage of entertainment news, including celebrities, TV, film, and pop culture. Submit up to three items.

A24. Food & Dining Reporting: Coverage of food trends, culinary culture, and restaurant reviews. Submit up to three items.

A25. Data-Driven Reporting: Innovative use of data, charts, and visualizations in storytelling. Submit up to three items.

A26. Specialized Writing or Coverage: In-depth, thematic coverage on niche topics or special series that go beyond daily reporting. Submit up to three items.

A27. News Commentary & Analysis: Insightful analysis and commentary on current events or public affairs. Submit up to three items.

A28. Sports Commentary: Insightful and engaging analysis or opinion writing about sporting events, athletes, or the culture of sports. Submit up to three items.

A29. Humor & Satire: Humorous or satirical writing that offers fresh perspectives on news, culture, or society. Submit up to three items.

A30. Editorial Writing: Well-argued and persuasive editorial content that advocates for change or public understanding. Submit up to three items.

A31. Blog Writing: Engaging blog content that provides personal perspectives, analysis, or unique takes on current topics. Submit up to three items.

A32. Public Service in Written Journalism: Written projects that have made a significant public impact by shedding light on critical issues or advocating for change. Submit up to five items. A supporting statement (400 words max) is recommended.

DIVISION B: GRAPHICS & PHOTOGRAPHY

This division is open to all media, including newspapers, newsletters, magazines, and online/digital, unless the category description specifies otherwise.

B01. Spot News Photography: Photography that captures breaking news events, delivering impact and emotion in real time. Submit up to five samples on one subject or event.

B02. General News Photography: Photography that captures significant news events or subjects outside the scope of breaking news, providing context and storytelling through images. Submit up to five samples.

B03. Feature Photography: Photography that enhances storytelling by capturing compelling moments, scenes, or subjects in long-form or human-interest stories. Submit up to five samples on one subject or event.

B04. Sports Photography: Dynamic, action-packed images from sporting events that showcase athleticism, drama, and emotional moments. Submit up to five samples.

B05. Photo Essay: Collections of photographs that tell a cohesive and compelling visual story on a topic or event. Submit up to seven samples on one subject or event.

B06. Graphics & Infographics: Effective use of visual graphics and data to convey complex information clearly and creatively. Submit up to three samples.

B07. Editorial Cartoons: Artistic work that provides satirical or thought-provoking commentary on current events, social issues, or political topics. Submit up to three samples.

B08. Illustrations: Creative illustrations that enhance storytelling through visual art and design, contributing to the narrative or theme of the piece. Submit up to three samples.

B09. Magazine Cover Design: Magazine cover design focusing on creativity and effectiveness in conveying the publication’s theme. Submit up to three samples.

B10. Newspaper Cover Design: Newspaper cover design, emphasizing clear visual presentation and newsworthiness. Submit up to three samples.

B11. Inside and Feature Design: Magazine or newspaper design and layout of internal or feature pages, focusing on creativity, clarity, and storytelling through design. Submit up to three samples.

B12. Environmental Photography: Compelling imagery that highlights environmental topics, from conservation to the impact of climate change. Submit up to three samples.

B13. Data Visualization & Interactive Graphics: Innovative use of data-driven storytelling through interactive graphics and visual elements that enhance audience engagement. Submit up to three samples.

B14. Artistic & Creative Photography: Photography that takes a creative or artistic approach to visual storytelling, emphasizing composition, lighting, and emotion. Submit up to three samples.

B15. Public Service in Visual Journalism: Photography, graphics, or visual projects that have made a significant public impact by shedding light on critical issues or advocating for change. Submit up to five samples.

DIVISION C: VIDEO / TELEVISION

This division is open to all media organizations that have a video/television component.

C01. Newscast: Overall excellence in a television newscast, highlighting effective storytelling, comprehensive coverage, and high production standards. Maximum running time: 20 minutes.

C02. Breaking News Reporting: Timely and accurate reporting of breaking news events, demonstrating quick response, depth, and clarity under deadline pressure. Maximum running time: 15 minutes.

C03. Investigative Reporting: In-depth, investigative video journalism that uncovers hidden truths or issues through thorough research, interviews, and compelling visuals. Maximum running time: 30 minutes.

C04. Feature Reporting: Engaging feature stories that creatively explore topics, people, or events using strong narrative techniques and impactful visuals. Maximum running time: 15 minutes.

C05. Documentary Journalism: Long-form video storytelling that presents comprehensive explorations of issues or topics through investigative research, interviews, and on-location footage. Maximum running time: 30 minutes.

C06. Explanatory Reporting: Video reports that simplify complex topics through clear explanations, expert interviews, and engaging visuals to inform and educate viewers. Maximum running time: 15 minutes.

C07. Short-Form Video Reporting: Impactful short-form video reports (typically under 10 minutes) that deliver concise, compelling storytelling with strong visual elements. Maximum running time: 10 minutes.

C08. Multimedia Storytelling (Video-Based): Video projects that integrate multiple storytelling elements, such as interviews, graphics, and data visualization, to create an immersive narrative. Maximum running time: 15 minutes.

C09. Video Series: Multi-part video series that explore a topic or theme in-depth through episodes connected by strong storytelling. Maximum running time: 20 minutes.

C10. Public Service in Video/Television Journalism: Video projects that provide a significant public benefit by raising awareness, holding institutions accountable, or advocating for change. Maximum running time: 30 minutes. A supporting statement (400 words max) is recommended.

DIVISION D: AUDIO / RADIO

This division is open to all media organizations that have an audio/radio component.

D01. Newscast: Overall excellence in an audio or radio newscast, highlighting strong reporting, production quality, and comprehensive coverage of significant news events. Maximum running time: 20 minutes.

D02. Breaking News Reporting: Timely and accurate coverage of breaking news events, demonstrating quick response, depth, and clarity under deadline pressure. Maximum running time: 15 minutes.

D03. General News Reporting: Coverage of timely, impactful news events through balanced, clear, and informative audio storytelling. Maximum running time: 15 minutes.

D04. Investigative Reporting: In-depth investigative audio journalism that uncovers hidden truths or significant issues through thorough research, interviews, and compelling storytelling. Maximum running time: 30 minutes.

D05. Feature Reporting: Engaging feature stories that explore people, events, or issues through creative audio storytelling and strong narrative structure. Maximum running time: 15 minutes.

D06. Documentary Journalism: Long-form audio documentaries that provide a comprehensive exploration of topics or issues through interviews and on-the-ground reporting. Maximum running time: 30 minutes.

D07. Explanatory Reporting: Audio stories that break down complex topics, using expert interviews and clear narration to educate and inform listeners. Maximum running time: 15 minutes.

D08. Short-Form Audio Reporting: Impactful short-form audio segments (typically under 10 minutes) that deliver concise, compelling storytelling on news or features. Maximum running time: 10 minutes.

D09. Podcast Series: Multi-episode podcasts that deliver in-depth storytelling, investigative coverage, or thematic explorations. Maximum running time: 60 minutes.

D10. Podcast Episode: A single podcast episode that demonstrates exceptional audio storytelling, compelling interviews, or engaging narrative techniques. Maximum running time: 60 minutes.

D11. Audio Storytelling with Sound Design: Audio productions that demonstrate exceptional use of sound design, including ambient sounds, music, and effects, to enhance storytelling. Maximum running time: 15 minutes.

D12. Public Service in Audio/Radio Journalism: Audio journalism projects that provide a significant public benefit by raising awareness or holding institutions accountable. Maximum running time: 30 minutes. A supporting statement (400 words max) is recommended.

DIVISION E: DIGITAL / ONLINE

This division is open to all media organizations that have a digital/online component.

E01. Interactive Storytelling: Digital projects that enhance storytelling through interactive graphics, maps, timelines, or multimedia elements that engage audiences in creative ways. Submit up to three items.

E02. Social Media Strategy: Innovative and effective use of social media platforms to engage audiences, break news, or amplify coverage. Submit up to five items.

E03. Data Use in Digital Storytelling: Impactful digital journalism driven by data analysis, including the effective use of visualizations, interactive elements, and investigative reports. Submit up to three items.

E04. Multimedia Presentation: Digital projects that combine multiple elements—such as text, video, audio, and graphics—into a cohesive and engaging multimedia package. Submit up to five items.

E05. Innovation in Digital Presentation: Creative and cutting-edge approaches to the design and delivery of digital stories, including interactive design and innovative formats. Submit up to three items.

E06. Data Visualization & Mapping: Impactful use of data visualization, charts, or interactive maps to present complex stories in an engaging and accessible format. Submit up to three items.

E07. Mobile-First Storytelling: Digital stories or projects specifically designed for mobile platforms, incorporating innovative design, storytelling techniques, and usability. Submit up to three items.

E08. Digital Newsletters: Newsletters that deliver engaging content, innovative storytelling, or effective curation tailored to digital audiences. Submit up to three items.

E09. Emerging Technology in Digital Journalism: Creative use of emerging technologies—such as AR, VR, AI, or interactive tools—to deliver innovative and immersive journalism. Submit up to three items.

E10. Public Service in Digital Journalism: Digital projects that provide a significant public benefit by informing, raising awareness, or holding institutions accountable on critical issues. Submit up to five items. A supporting statement (400 words max) is recommended.

DIVISION F: STUDENTS

This division is open to all college and university students in the contest area. Students may enter after graduation, provided they were enrolled and produced the work in the contest year.

F01. Student News Outlet: A student-run news outlet that exemplifies excellence in reporting, storytelling, design, and innovation while making a meaningful impact on its campus or community. A supporting statement (maximum 400 words) is recommended. Submit up to five items that showcase the breadth and diversity of your outlet’s work.

F02. Editorial Leadership: An individual student editor or editorial team that demonstrates outstanding leadership through the successful execution of news coverage, editorial vision, and newsroom innovation. This category highlights those who effectively manage coverage, coordinate major projects, and guide their team through challenges, including crisis response. Submit up to three items that showcase the breadth and diversity of the student’s or outlet’s work. Additionally, submit up to three supporting statements (up to 250 words each) detailing the editor or editorial team's contributions, impact, and leadership achievements.

F03. Special Projects or Special Coverage: In-depth journalism projects or thematic coverage that demonstrate excellence in planning, execution, and impact. This category highlights ambitious efforts, including multi-part series, investigative campaigns, or multimedia presentations that go beyond daily reporting. Submit up to three items.

F04. Written Journalism: Recognizes an individual student who demonstrates exceptional skill in reporting, writing, and storytelling across various formats, including news articles, features, columns, or opinion pieces published in print or online. Submit up to five items showcasing the student's breadth of work.

F05. Video Journalism: Recognizes exceptional television or video reporting that highlights compelling narratives, high production standards, and newsworthiness. Submit up to three items. Maximun run time: 20 minutes.

F06. Audio Journalism: Audio storytelling through well-produced podcasts, radio broadcasts, or narrative-driven audio segments. Submit up to three items. Maximun run time: 20 minutes.

F07. Investigative Journalism: Investigative work that uncovers significant truths through meticulous research and impactful storytelling. Submit up to five items on a single topic.

F08. News Writing: Coverage of a breaking or in-depth news event, demonstrating accuracy, clarity, and impact. Submit up to three items.

F09. Serious Feature Writing: Compelling feature stories that explore serious topics with depth, creativity, and sensitivity. Submit up to three items.

F10. Light Feature Writing: Engaging feature stories that capture human-interest topics, creative storytelling, or lighter cultural content. Submit up to three items.

F11. Sports Writing: Coverage of sporting events, athletes, or the broader sports landscape through dynamic reporting. Submit up to three items.

F12. Entertainment Writing: Coverage of entertainment, including music, film, television, and cultural events. Submit up to three items.

F13. Column Writing: Opinion writing, emphasizing an original voice, well-supported arguments, and reader engagement. Submit up to three items.

F14. Photography: Photojournalism that captures powerful moments and tells a compelling visual story. Submit up to three items.

F15. Digital Storytelling: Use of digital platforms, integrating multimedia, interactive graphics, or web-based formats to enhance storytelling. Submit up to three items.

F16. Social Media Strategy: Innovative and effective use of social media to break news, engage audiences, or enhance storytelling. Submit up to five items.

F17. Visual Storytelling: Visual storytelling through creative design, infographics, illustrations, or other visual elements that enhance the narrative and engage audiences. This category highlights the power of visuals in delivering impactful stories. Submit up to three items.

F18. Print Design: Print design by a student or student team that enhances storytelling and reader engagement through creative layouts, typography, and visual elements. This category highlights innovation in the design of newspapers, magazines, or other print publications, including cover designs, feature spreads and infographics. Submit up to three items.

F19. Public Service in Student Journalism: Projects that provide a significant public benefit by informing, raising awareness, or holding institutions accountable on critical issues affecting their campus or community. Submit up to five items. A supporting statement (400 words max) is recommended.

Click Here to Register or to Start an Entry