Holle Award for Excellence in Media Writing

The Holle Award for Excellence in Media Writing is awarded to the author of an exceptional news story that reflects a topically relevant issue to society.  Note: Sports-related stories should be submitted to the Holle Award for Excellence in Sports Writing.

Who’s eligible?

Any individual undergraduate student who is currently enrolled in a U.S. institution of higher learning, and majoring or minoring in journalism. Students who are graduating during the calendar year of submission are eligible to apply, even though the award may be conferred after they have graduated. 

Submission Guidelines and Materials

• Applicants must create an account with the Submittable platform to apply for the award. Complete the online application form.
• Submissions should be anonymized. Please remove or distort any identifiable information from your entry.
• Upload one single-authored news story that is at least 800 words in length. Though “news” is not defined in a specific way, all entries are expected to be nonfiction and reflect a topic or issue that is relevant to society.  The story must have at least three sources, and the contact information for all sources must be provided. Entries must have been published in print and/or online in a campus or professional publication (no blogs). 
• Submit an abstract summary (no more than 100 words) of your news story, and include an explanation about how your submission aligns with the Holle Awards mission.  
• Include a submission statement that lists: (a) the importance of the story for the intended readership, (b) any noteworthy information concerning the reporting process, such as time spent and sources consulted, and (c) any readership or community reaction to the piece, if applicable.
• Include the name and contact information of one faculty reference/sponsor at your current institution, who has reviewed your work.
• Single-author bylines only.
• Include a professional headshot and brief bio. Headshots should have a neutral background and include your head and shoulders only.

AI policy: The use of AI is not allowed for submissions to the Holle Award for Excellence in Media Writing. Applications will be disqualified if AI or plagiarism is suspected. All advanced entries will be checked with AI-Detection tools to ensure compliance. The Holle Awards are intended to reward originality, creativity, and ingenuity.

All applications should align with the mission of the award and the vision of Everett Holle.

While it is not a requirement to apply to the Holle Awards, we encourage you to register your work through the U.S. Copyright Office. 

Holle Award winners will be required to release the use of their name, image, likeness and representation of their work for promotional purposes but not commercial gain.