Deadline

July 15, 2025

Past winners

View past winners list

This award is given to administrators who have demonstrated support and dedication to journalism education. JEA members are encouraged to nominate worthy administrators. Support of student press rights is of particular value.

The winning administrator is encouraged to present or co-present a session at the Fall JEA/NSPA National High School Journalism Convention and give a five-minute speech at the adviser awards luncheon. Convention travel and lodging will be paid by JEA. In addition, the school’s journalism program will receive a $1,000 award.

Candidates who did not get selected for the award may be renominated for a maximum of two additional years. The original nominator is invited to send updated information by the deadline.

Entry Criteria

Nominator must be a current JEA member. The following materials will be required:

  • A letter of recommendation from the nominator explaining how this administrator has shown support for and dedication to journalism education.
  • A short bio (65-100 words) about the nominee that can be used in the awards ceremony. Include recent work history, awards and other career highlights.
  • Up to three letters of support for the nominee.
  • A high-quality color headshot.
  • A high-quality candid photo of the nominee at work, if available.
  • Copies of or links to articles about or by the nominee (limit four pages).

How to Apply

The application will open on or around May 15 and is due by July 15.

More Awards

Candace and John Bowen Adviser First Amendment Leadership Award

Deadline: July 15, 2025
This annual award will go to a JEA member whose work has actively supported, defended and fought for student journalists and their advisers on the local, state or national level.
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Rising Star Award

Deadline: July 15, 2025
Rising Star trophies are given to advisers who are in their first five years of advising a media program and have shown great dedication to scholastic journalism and have had success advising at least one media program.
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Medal of Merit Award

Deadline: July 15, 2025
Medals of Merit are given to JEA members who have made significant contributions to scholastic journalism.
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