About the event
A celebration of local journalism
The Center for Cooperative Media at Montclair State University invites NJ News Commons members to honor the best journalism produced across the state in 2025.
🏆 The awards
This year, the Center consolidated two separate award programs into the Excellence in Community Media Awards, with an emphasis on community-level reporting.
Our ceremony brings together journalists, elected officials, representatives from state agencies, academic leaders, and community organizations to honor newsrooms reporting across the state.
📋 Event details
Education Building, Room 212
2000 Pennington Road, Ewing, NJ
Recognition
2026 awards
Awards will be presented to honor outstanding contributions to community-level journalism. Winners will be revealed during the luncheon.
Excellence in Community News
Recognizes up to 10 outstanding community-level reporting that informs, educates, and serves New Jersey residents. Up to 10 awards presented annually.
2026 honorees include
Winners to be announced.
Media Champion Award
Honors a person or organization demonstrating values and commitment to informing, educating, and building community through local journalism. One award presented annually.
2026 honorees include
Winner to be announced.
Legacy in Journalism Award
Recognizes a journalist or outlet with a long-standing record of excellence and contribution to their community. One award presented annually.
2026 honorees include
Winner to be announced.
Experience
What to expect
Attendees will have the opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate.
Network with fellow journalists and media professionals from across the state
Hear from distinguished speakers about the importance of community media
Celebrate award-winning journalism that serves New Jersey's diverse populations
Learn about potential collaborations and partnerships in the local media ecosystem
Speakers
Featured speakers
Confirmed speakers joining us to celebrate New Jersey's community journalism.
Gov. Mikie Sherrill
Governor of New Jersey
Keynote remarks
State Sen. Raj Mukherji
NJ State Senator, 32nd District
Keynote & fireside chat
U.S. Sen. Andy Kim
U.S. Senator from New Jersey
Video messageRegister today
Free for NJ News Commons members. Complimentary lunch and parking included for all registered attendees.
Register on Eventbrite