APW names winners of 2025 Communications Contest

by | Jun 21, 2025 | communications contest

Arkansas Press Women celebrated the winners of its 2025 Professional Communications Contest June 21 at Central Baptist College.

Ya!Mule Wordsmiths’ Hebda receives 4th straight Sweepstakes Award

Arkansas Press Women announced winners of its annual Professional Communications Contest at an awards luncheon Saturday at Central Baptist College in Conway. Work produced in a variety of communications fields during 2024 was eligible to compete.

For the fourth consecutive year, Dwain Hebda of Little Rock, president of Ya!Mule Wordsmiths, Inc., won the Sweepstakes Award in the state contest. The award is based on a point system that factors in entry ranking and the degree of competition in a category.

Of the total of 321 entries submitted in the contest and evaluated by independent judges:

  • 80 entries, or 24.92 percent of all entries, received First Place.
  • 55, or 17.13 percent, received Second Place.
  • 36, or 11.22 percent, received Third Place.
  • 77, or 23.99 percent, received Honorable Mention.
  • 73, or 22.74 percent, did not receive an award.

First-place entrants in the Arkansas contest who are members of the National Federation of Press Women (NFPW) advance to NFPW’s national competition. National winners will be recognized during NFPW’s annual conference September 11-13 in Golden, Colorado. The conference concludes with an awards banquet on September 13. Information about the conference is posted at https://www.nfpw.org/2025-conference-golden-colorado.

The following individuals placed in Arkansas Press Women’s 2025 Professional Communications Contest:

Ben Aaron, Video Production Specialist, Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service:

  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Web and Social Media > Video for Web > Special-interest video for Ag is Big.
  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Web and Social Media > Podcast for UADA Today.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Web and Social Media > Video for Web > Special-interest video for Tusk VI: Ag is Big in Arkansas.

Sonny Albarado, Editor-in-Chief, Arkansas Advocate:

  • First Place in Writing > Columns > Personal opinion (bylined, not editorial) for Arkansas School Voucher Program Clearly Supports Religious Instruction.

Ryan Anderson, Higher Education reporter, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Education for New Chancellor is Old Friend at HSU.

Dayanti Arechiga, News Editor, NorthWest Arkansas Community College Eagle View:

  • Honorable Mention in Collegiate/Education > Writing > Opinion/Editorial/Reviews for Chappell Roan’s Gift to Arkansas.
  • Third Place in Collegiate/Education > Writing > Opinion/Editorial/Reviews for The Christmas Crisis.

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette staff:

  • Co-entrant:  Second place in Editing for Print or Online Publications > Publication Regularly Edited by Entrant > Newspaper for the June 22, 2024, edition covering the Fordyce shooting.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Editing for Print or Online Publications > Single Page, Section or Supplement Edited by Entrant > Newspaper for the 2024 general election voter guide.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Editing for Print or Online Publications > Publication Regularly Edited by Entrant > Newspaper for the April 9, 2024, edition covering the solar eclipse.

Liz Atkinson, Page Designer, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Headlines.
  • Third Place in Graphics and Design > Page Design > Newspaper for the front page of the June 22, 2024, edition covering the Fordyce shooting.
  • Second place in Editing for Print or Online Publications > Publication Regularly Edited by Entrant > Newspaper for the June 22, 2024, edition covering the Fordyce shooting.

Terry Austin, Page Designer, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Honorable Mention in Graphics and Design > Page Design > Newspaper for Page 1E of the October 12, 2024, edition, In the Dark.

Heather Baker, President and Publisher, AY Media Group:

  • Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Food for Dining Perfecta.

Sharla Bardin, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, J.D. McCarty Center:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Education for Buzzworthy Bees.
  • Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Style for Sew Far, So Good.

David Barham, Editorial Page Editor, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Third Place in Writing > Editorial/Op-Ed for The 13,099 Countdown:  No, Not Bottles of Beer on the Wall.
  • Second Place in Writing > Editorial/Op-Ed for Petting Zoo:  When Words are Serious.
  • First Place in Writing > Editorial/Op-Ed for Missed-information:  Claims are a Swing and a Miss.

Samantha Barker, Video Conferencing Manager, Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service:

  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Web and Social Media > Podcast for UADA Today.

Justin Bentley, Principal and VP of Brokerage, Colliers; Leadership Greater Little Rock Class XL:

  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Public Relations Materials > Report for College Station Conversations.

Kimberly Blackmon, University of Arkansas Pulaski Technical College; Leadership Greater Little Rock Class XL:

  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Public Relations Materials > Report for College Station Conversations.

Bill Bowden, Reporter, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Obituary for Robinson’s Moment in Spotlight Recalled.
  • Co-entrant:  Honorable Mention in Writing > Continuing Coverage or Unfolding News for Arkansas Prison Director Dispute.
  • Third Place in Writing > In-depth Reporting for Arkansas’ January. 6 Defendants Face Charges.
  • Third Place in Writing > Feature Story > Print-based newspaper for Holocaust Survivor’s Goblet Returns to Kin.
  • Second Place in Writing > Feature Story > Print-based newspaper for Swimming in Fossils:  Predators’ Remains Make Paleontologists dig ‘Sharkansas’.
  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Writing > News Story > Print-based newspaper for State Shares a Moment – 2024 Total Eclipse.
  • First Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Obituary for Longtime, Beloved Reporter Holt Dies.
  • First Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Education for Report:  Locker Room Bullying Seen in Quitman.

Kiara Bradford, Engagement Coordinator, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • First Place in Web and Social Media > Social Media Presence > Corporate or for-profit for Arkansas Online Instagram.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Web and Social Media > Social Media Campaign > Corporate or for-profit for Arkansas Voter Voices.

Christina Breckenridge, Chief of Staff, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture:

  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Web and Social Media > Podcast for UADA Today.

Daniel Breen, News Director, Little Rock Public Radio:

  • Second Place in Radio and Television > Talk Show > Radio for the August 23, 2024, edition of The Arkansas Newswrap.

Allie Brown, Arkansas Air Flow; Leadership Greater Little Rock Class XL:

  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Public Relations Materials > Report for College Station Conversations.

John Brummett, Columnist, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Second Place in Writing > Columns > General for Performative Christianity on Display.

Sarah Campbell-Miller, Senior Online Editor, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • First Place in Web and Social Media > Website Edited or Managed by Entrant > Corporate or for-profit for ArkansasOnline.com.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Web and Social Media > Social Media Presence > Corporate or for-profit for Arkansas Online Instagram.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Web and Social Media > Social Media Campaign > Corporate or for-profit for Arkansas Voter Voices.

Mark Carter, Senior Editor, AY Media Group:

  • First Place in Writing > Feature Story > Magazine, newsletter/other publication for Postcard From the Past.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Writing > News Story > Magazine, newsletter/other print publication for Bold New Vision.

Chelsea Castillo, Managing Editor, NorthWest Arkansas Community College Eagle View:

  • Third Place in Collegiate/Education > Writing > Features for NWACC Students Running a Local Food Truck in Benton County.
  • Second Place in Collegiate/Education > Writing > News for Overdose Kits Now Accessible on Campus.
  • Second Place in Collegiate/Education > Writing > Features for Cultures, Food Mix in Award-winning Mural.
  • First Place in Collegiate/Education > Writing > Sports for NWACC Athletic Luncheon Celebrating esports and Cross-country.
  • First Place in Collegiate/Education > Writing > Opinion/Editorial/Reviews for Did Gen Z Voters Impact the Election?

Yavonda Chase, Director of News and Communications, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences; Leadership Greater Little Rock Class XL:

  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Public Relations Materials > Report for College Station Conversations.

Will Dakil, Director of Enterprise Risk Management and Assistant Counsel, Arkansas Children’s; Leadership Greater Little Rock Class XL:

  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Public Relations Materials > Report for College Station Conversations.

Sarah DeClerk, Staff Writer and Copy Editor, AY Media Group:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Arts and entertainment for It Just Takes One Song.
  • Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Arts and entertainment for Master of Remastering.
  • First Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Arts and entertainment for Jewell’s Crystal Bridges Experience.
  • First Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Business for A Bigger Boom.
  • First Place in Writing > Personality Profile > 750 words or fewer for Film to Firm.

Lucas Dufalla, Business Reporter, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Second Place in Writing > Continuing Coverage or Unfolding News for Helena-West Helena Water System Problems.
  • First Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > History for River Towns See Populations Dwindle as Hardships Mount.

Neal Earley, State Capitol Bureau reporter, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Sports for Legislator Proposes Raffles to Help Pay College Athletes.
  • First Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Government or politics for Campaign to Lift Ban on Abortion is a Solitary Fight.

Ahmed Elkhattabi, Graduate Assistant, University of Arkansas at Little Rock:

  • Honorable Mention in Collegiate/Education > Writing > News for UA Little Rock Joins National Effort for Disability Awareness Month With Inclusive Events and Tech Demos.

Michael Elley, Chief Information Officer, Baptist Health; Leadership Greater Little Rock Class XL:

  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Public Relations Materials > Report for College Station Conversations.

Dale Ellis, Federal Court Reporter, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Third Place in Writing > News Story > Print-based newspaper for ATF Affidavit Claims Illegal Firearm Sales.

Sarah Engebrecht, Graphic Artist, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Second Place in Graphics and Design > Graphics > Graphics for On a Higher Plane.

Angelita Faller, News Director, University of Arkansas at Little Rock:

  • Second Place in Writing > Publications Regularly Written by Entrant > Newsletter/other publication, nonprofit, government or educational for the UA Little Rock Now.
  • First Place in Information for the Media > News or Feature Release – Single Release for UA Little Rock Receives $5 Million to Combat Drug Use Among Arkansas Youth.
  • First Place in Editing for Print or Online Publications > Publication Regularly Edited by Entrant > Newsletter/other publication – non-profit, government or educational for UA Little Rock Alumni Association newsletter.
  • First Place in Information for the Media > Media Pitch for Spreading Innovation Brick by Brick.
  • First Place in Information for the Media > News or Feature Releases – Multiple Releases for Conversations With Solar Eclipse Experts.

Lara Farrar, Journalist, Arkansas Times:

  • Second Place in Writing > In-depth Reporting for The Import Business: How Arkansas Residential Psych Facilities Make Money on Out-of-state Kids.

Gwen Faulkenberry, Columnist, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Third Place in Writing > Columns > Personal Opinion (bylined, not editorial) for When Character Ceases to Count.

Hunter Field, Deputy Editor, Arkansas Advocate:

  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Writing > Continuing Coverage or Unfolding News for Arkansas’ New Prison.

Deacue Fields, Vice President for Agriculture, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture:

  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Web and Social Media > Podcast for UADA Today.

Joseph Flaherty, Little Rock Reporter, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Continuing Coverage or Unfolding News for Little Rock Housing Authority.
  • Co-entrant:  Third Place in Writing > News Story > Print-based newspaper for ATF Affidavit Claims Illegal Firearm Sales.
  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Writing > News Story > Print-based newspaper for State Shares a Moment – 2024 Total Eclipse.

Cameron Fuller, Vice President, Simmons Bank; Leadership Greater Little Rock Class XL:

  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Public Relations Materials > Report for College Station Conversations.

Aaron Gettinger, Reporter, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Writing > News Story > Print-based newspaper for State Shares a Moment – 2024 Total Eclipse.

Steve Goff, City Editor, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • First Place in Editing for Print or Online Publications > Single Page, Section or Supplement Edited by Entrant > Newspaper for the 2024 general election voter guide.

Antoinette Grajeda, Deputy Editor, Arkansas Advocate:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Education for Teacher Salary Funding Concerns Remain for Rural Arkansas School Districts.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Education for More Arkansas School Districts Hiring Unlicensed Teachers to Cope with Staff Shortage.
  • Third Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Social issues for Immigrants in Arkansas Struggle to Achieve Better Life They Came to the U.S. to Find.
  • Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Social issues for Arkansas School Districts Offer Affordable Teacher Housing as Recruitment Tool.
  • First Place in Writing > Continuing Coverage or Unfolding News for Arkansas’ New Prison.

Genesis Guerra, News Editor, NorthWest Arkansas Community College Eagle View:

  • Honorable Mention in Collegiate/Education > Writing > Features for NWACC Theater Prepares for Holiday Cheer.
  • Honorable Mention in Collegiate/Education > Writing > News for Arkansas Voters Approve Plan to Expand Lottery Scholarship.
  • First Place in Collegiate/Education > Writing > News for Cyber Event Delays Start of Semester.

Bobbie Handcock, Web Content Specialist, University of Arkansas at Little Rock:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Personality Profile > More than 750 words for Against All Odds:  Graduate Achieves Degree Dream Despite Severe Health Setback.

Audrey Hanes, Editor at Large, Occasions Publishing Group:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Food for The Soup King at The Parsonage.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Arts and entertainment for Conducting a New Generation of Symphonic Musicians.
  • Third Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Style for Kim Biggs – Bringing a New Vibe to Downtown Jonesboro.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Editing for Print or Online Publications > Publication Regularly Edited by Entrant > Magazine/Magapaper for the September 2024 issue of Jonesboro Occasions.

Mike Harley, Sports Reporter, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Sports for Legislator Proposes Raffles to Help Pay College Athletes.

Dwain Hebda, President, Ya!Mule Wordsmiths, Inc.:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Health for Mind as Medicine.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Hobby for Go Play Outside.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Feature Story > Magazine, newsletter/other publication for A Mother’s Promise.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Health for A New Hope.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Food for The Winning Ticket.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > History for Fun on the Frontier.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Food for Central Arkansas Suds.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Sports for Do You Believe in Miracles?
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Agriculture for Future of Arkansas.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Health for Brothers in Arms.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Feature Story > Magazine, newsletter/other publication for Bless the Beasts.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Government or politics for From Outsiders to Kingmakers.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Government or politics for Ready to Rumble.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Personality Profile > More than 750 words for Master of Beats.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Science or technology for Ghost in the Machine.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Agriculture for Tale of the Grape.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Business for The Wizard of OZK.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Agriculture for Iron Sharpens Iron.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Agriculture for The Allens are All In.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Social issues for One for the Road.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Religion for Coach Cal.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Arts and entertainment for Pickin’ and Grinnin’.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Arts and entertainment for Music Man.
  • Third Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Health for House of Payne.
  • Third Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Arts and entertainment for Chasing That Neon Rainbow.
  • Third Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Green/environmental for Where the Wild Things Are.
  • Third Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Religion for High Profile.
  • Third Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Hobby for Mon Cherie, Miss Cherie.
  • Second Place for Writing > Feature Story > Magazine, newsletter/other publication for This Place is All Right.
  • Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > History for Where are you Christmas?
  • Second Place in Writing > Personality Profile > More than 750 words for Good Night and Good Luck.
  • Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Agriculture for The New Moo.
  • Second Place in Writing > Publications Regularly Written by Entrant > Newspaper/Magazine/Magapaper for Pulse.
  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Food for Dining Perfecta.
  • First Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Sports for Running for Daylight.
  • First Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Food for Love to Eat, Eat to Love.
  • First Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Style for Ringmasters.
  • First Place in Writing > News Story > Magazine, newsletter/other print publication for Bold New Vision.
  • First Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Social issues for State of Emergency.
  • First Place in Writing > Publications Regularly Written by Entrant > Newspaper/Magazine/Magapaper for Keystone.
  • First Place in Writing > Publications Regularly Written by Entrant > Newsletter/other publication, nonprofit, government or educational for MSM Messenger.
  • First Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Hobby for Knitting Hope.

Mary Hennigan, Reporter, Arkansas Advocate:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Government or politics for Approximately 18% of Arkansas’ State Positions are Vacant.
  • Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Health for A Steady Job Doesn’t Guarantee Food on the Table for Many Arkansans.
  • Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Business for Industry Professionals Reflect on Five Years of Medical Marijuana in Arkansas.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Writing > Continuing Coverage or Unfolding News for Arkansas’ New Prison.

Kristin Netterstrom Higgins, Program Associate – Public Policy, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture:

  • First Place in Communications Programs and Campaigns > Public Service Program or Campaign for 2024 Arkansas Ballot Issue Education Program.

Mary Hightower, Chief Communications Officer, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Obituary for Hope, Don Bragg Remembered for Their Love of Science, Learning.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Feature Story > Online publication for 55 Years Later, Earliest African-American Undergraduate of UA’s College of Agriculture Receives Overdue Honors.
  • Third Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Obituary for Claude Kennedy, Retired Cotton Station Director, Former ASCS Regional Director, Passes Away at 82.
  • Third Place in Writing > Feature Story > Online publication for Daddy Long Legs Goes on a Police ‘ride-along,’ Extension Entomologist Tapped to Debunk Venom Myth.
  • Third Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Food for Fraud Leaves a Bitter Taste in Honey Industry.
  • Second Place in Web and Social Media > Video for Web > Special-interest video for Ag is Big.
  • Second Place in Writing > Feature Story > Online publication for Lightning Bugs:  The Story Behind Summer’s Tiny Fireworks Show.
  • Second Place in Web and Social Media > Podcast for UADA Today.
  • First Place in Web and Social Media > Video for Web > Special-interest video for Tusk VI:  Ag is Big in Arkansas.
  • First Place in Writing > Headlines.
  • First Place in Writing > Feature Story > Online publication for Quapaw Quarter Association Annual Tour Highlights Home of First African American Extension Workers, Little Rock Nine member Gloria Ray.
  • First Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Agriculture for Norsworthy Honored with Rice Industry Award.
  • First Place in Web and Social Media > Electronic Newsletter > Nonprofit, government or educational for ONE Division.

Carrie Hill, Graphic Artist, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • First Place in Graphics and Design > Graphics > Graphics for Wild in Streets – Arkansas Comic Con.

Aly Hobson, Student, Redfield, Arkansas:

  • Third Place in Writing > Books, Short Stories, Verse > Children’s Book > Fiction for Abbie Jane Learns to Advocate.

Michael Hoge, Assistant News Editor, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Honorable Mention in Graphics and Design > Page Design > Newspaper for the front page of the July 22, 2024, edition covering President Joe Biden’s decision to drop out of the race.

Tony Holt, Politics Editor, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Continuing Coverage or Unfolding News for Arkansas Prison Director Dispute.
  • First Place in Web and Social Media > Podcast for Hog Wild:  The Razorbacks’ Championship Season – Episode 1, Richardson Takes Over.

Tristan Jackson, Deputy Sports Editor, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Second Place in Graphics and Design > Page Design > Newspaper for coverage of the 2024 Super Bowl.

Paden Johnson, Video Producer, Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station:

  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Web and Social Media > Video for Web > Special-interest video for Ag is Big.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Web and Social Media > Video for Web > Special-interest video for Tusk VI:  Ag is Big in Arkansas.

Wendy Jordan, Marketing Manager, Crafton Tull, and Contributing Writer, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette; Leadership Greater Little Rock Class XL:

  • First Place in Public Relations Materials > Report for College Station Conversations.
  • First Place in Graphics and Design > Graphics > Infographics for Arkansas’ Central Cityscape.
  • First Place in Photography > Photographer-writer for All Along the River.

Tammy Keith, Freelance Writer:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Education for Lisa and the League of Kindness.
  • Third Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Business for From Conviction to Creation.
  • First Place in Writing > Personality Profile > More than 750 words for Todd Yakoubian:  Taking Central Arkansas by Storm.

Dana Kelley, Columnist, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Columns > Personal opinion (bylined, not editorial) for Education Principles.

Jenna Kelley, Graphic Designer, AY Media Group:

  • Honorable Mention in Graphics and Design > Page Design > Magazine or magapaper for The Long and Winding Road.
  • Third Place in Graphics and Design > Page Design > Magazine or magapaper for Living on Ozark Time.

Heather Kersten, News Editor, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Honorable Mention in Graphics and Design > Page Design > Newspaper for the front page of the April 9, 2024, edition, covering the solar eclipse.
  • First Place in Graphics and Design > Page Design > Newspaper for the front page of the May 28, 2024, edition covering Officials Confirm 5 Tornadoes.
  • First Place in Editing for Print or Online Publications > Publication Regularly Edited by Entrant > Newspaper for the April 9, 2024 edition covering the solar eclipse.

Kay King, Editor-In-Chief, NorthWest Arkansas Community College Eagle View:

  • Honorable Mention in Collegiate/Education > Writing > News for Biden, Trump, Womack Win on Tuesday.
  • Honorable Mention in Collegiate/Education > Writing> Features for Brightwater Venturing into New Territories.
  • Honorable Mention in Collegiate/Education > Writing> Features for Catching Up on CAST.
  • Honorable Mention in Collegiate/Education > Writing > News for Trails and Trades Takes Off.
  • Third Place in Collegiate/Education > Writing > News for Flying Forward to the Future.
  • Second Place in Collegiate/Education > Writing > Opinion/Editorial/Reviews for Coca-Cola is King.
  • First Place in Collegiate/Education > Art and Design > Design (print or electronic) for Creepy Creatures at Crystal Bridges.

Nick Kordsmeier, Director of Communications, Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station:

  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Web and Social Media > Video for Web > Special-interest video for Tusk VI:  Ag is Big in Arkansas.

Grant Lancaster, Reporter, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > In-depth Reporting for Netflix Comes to the Pulaski County Jail.
  • First Place in Writing > News Story > Print-based newspaper for Gunman Kills 3, Injures 10 in Fordyce.
  • First Place in Writing > Feature Story > Print-based newspaper for Fordyce Survivors Finding Way to Live.

Sam Lane, High School Sports Reporter, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Third Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Sports for Bridges Used Mop to Put Past Behind.

Richard Ledbetter, Reporter, The Pine Bluff Commercial:

  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Writing > News Story > Print-based newspaper for Gunman Kills 3, Injures 10 in Fordyce.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Photography > Photo Essay for Fordyce Mass Shooting.

Josie Lenora, Politics/Government Reporter, Little Rock Public Radio:

  • Honorable Mention in Radio and Television > Prepared Report > Radio for High School Students Sue Arkansas Over Restricted African American Studies.
  • Third Place in Radio and Television > Prepared Report > Radio for Finding a Tasteful Design for Arkansas’ ‘Monument to the Unborn’ has been Fraught.
  • First Place in Radio and Television > Prepared Report > Radio for Residents Voice Opposition to Planned Charleston Prison.

Mike Livengood, Assistant News Editor, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Honorable Mention in Graphics and Design > Page Design > Newspaper for Page 1E of the August 22, 2024, edition, ‘Dolly’ Redux.

Frank Lockwood, Religion Editor, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Obituary for David Pryor, Statesman for Arkansas, Dies at 89.
  • Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Religion for United They STAND.
  • First Place in Writing > In-depth Reporting for Immanuel Baptist Church Sex Abuse Allegations.
  • First Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Religion for Church Group Ends With its Job Undone.

Amir Mahmoud, Reporter, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Co-entrant:  Third Place in Writing > News Story > Print-based newspaper for ATF Affidavit Claims Illegal Firearm Sales.
  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Writing > News Story > Print-based newspaper for State Shares a Moment – 2024 Total Eclipse.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Writing > News Story > Print-based newspaper for Gunman Kills 3, Injures 10 in Fordyce.

Parker Mancino, Multimedia Reporter, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Co-entrant:  Third Place in Writing > News Story > Print-based newspaper for ATF Affidavit Claims Illegal Firearm Sales.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Web and Social Media > Social Media Campaign > Corporate or for-profit for Arkansas Voter Voices.

Philip Martin, Columnist, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Third Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Reviews for The Third Man.
  • Second Place in Writing > Columns > Personal opinion (bylined, not editorial) for Christmas Lights.
  • Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Personal essay for The Most Influential Record Albums.
  • Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Reviews for (Chris) Maxwell SMART.
  • First Place in Writing > Columns > General for Just Another Gun Guy?
  • First Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Personal essay for Kris Kristofferson: Frog-voiced Truth Teller.
  • First Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Reviews for THE FIRE This Time.

Kyle McDaniel, Multimedia Editor, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Co-entrant:  Third Place in Web and Social Media > Video for Web > Special-interest video for Drone Footage of Mass Shooting Incident in Fordyce.
  • First Place in in Web and Social Media > Social Media Campaign > Corporate or for-profit for Arkansas Voter Voices.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Web and Social Media > Podcast for Hog Wild:  The Razorbacks’ Championship Season – Episode 1, Richardson Takes Over.

Daniel McFadin, Reporter, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Co-entrant: Third Place in Writing > News Story > Print-based newspaper for ATF Affidavit Claims Illegal Firearm Sales.
  • Second Place in Writing > News Story > Print-based newspaper for State Shares a Moment – 2024 Total Eclipse.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Writing > News Story > Print-based newspaper for Gunman Kills 3, Injures 10 in Fordyce.

Thomas Metthe, Staff Photographer, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Honorable Mention in Photography > Single Photograph > News or feature photo for Memorial Day.
  • Honorable Mention in Photography > Single Photograph > News or feature photo for Eclipse Wedding.
  • Second Place in Photography > Single Photograph > Sports photo for 4A Soccer.
  • First Place in Photography > Single Photograph > News or feature photo for Pryor in State.
  • First Place in Photography > Single Photograph > General photo for Tulips.

Chris Meux, Design Specialist and Print Shop Manager, Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service:

  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Communications Programs and Campaigns > Public Service Program or Campaign for 2024 Arkansas Ballot Issue Education Program.

Mak Millard, Associate Editor, AY Media Group:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Business for Ink Mister.
  • Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Hobby for Move Over, Cats and Dogs.

Matthew Moore, Producer/Reporter, Little Rock Public Radio:

  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Radio and Television > Talk Show > Radio for the August 23, 2024, edition of The Arkansas Newswrap.

Jeremy Muck, Page Designer, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Honorable Mention in Graphics and Design > Page Design > Newspaper for Arkansas Beats Tennessee.

Colin Murphey, Staff Photographer, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Honorable Mention in Photography > Single Photograph > News or feature photo for Vigil.
  • Third Place in Photography > Single Photograph > News or feature photo for House Fire.
  • Third Place in Web and Social Media > Video for Web > Special-interest video for Drone Footage of Mass Shooting Incident in Fordyce.
  • First Place in Photography > Single Photograph > Sports photo for 6A Baseball Championship.
  • First Place in Photography > Photo Essay for Fordyce Mass Shooting.

Daniel Nehus, Account Manager, Harrison Energy Partners; Leadership Greater Little Rock Class XL:

  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Public Relations Materials > Report for College Station Conversations.

Rex Nelson, Senior Editor, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Third Place in Writing > Columns > General for Road Scholar Comes to State.

Rian Newman, Editorial Assistant, University of Arkansas at Little Rock:

  • First Place in Collegiate/Education > Writing > Features for Merriman Achieves Long-awaited Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing.

Catherine Nolte, Marketing Coordinator, Northwest Arkansas Food Bank:

  • First Place in Web and Social Media > Social Media Campaign > Nonprofit, government or educational for Find Food Map Launch Campaign.

Brittney Osborn, Art Director, Occasions Publishing Group:

  • Third Place in Graphics and Design > Graphics > Graphics for The Great Eclipse.
  • First Place in Advertising > Single Advertisement for April is Totality Awesome.

Michelle Parks, Director of Communications, Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design, University of Arkansas:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Feature Story > Magazine, newsletter/other publication for Building Connections.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Feature Story > Magazine, newsletter/other publication for From House to Housing:  Visualizing the Future of Residential Spaces.
  • Second Place in Editing for Print or Online Publications > Publication Regularly Edited by Entrant > Magazine/Magapaper for the Spring/Summer 2024 issue of ReView magazine.

Carrie Phillips, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer, University of Arkansas at Little Rock:

  • Second Place in Advertising > Advertising Campaign for Elevating Excellence:  Showcasing  UA Little Rock Faculty in the Community.
  • Second Place in Public Relations Materials > Report for UA Little Rock Annual Report 2024.
  • First Place in Communications Programs and Campaigns > Public Relations Campaign > Integrated Communications for UA Little Rock Eclipse Event.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Editing for Print or Online Publications > Publication Regularly Edited by Entrant > Newsletter/other publication – non-profit, government or educational for UA Little Rock Alumni Association newsletter.

Ainsley Platt, Reporter, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Third Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Government or politics for Police-conduct Review Board Eludes Spotlight.
  • Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Green/environmental for Dispute Over Dam in Des Arc Remains Without Way Forward.
  • First Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Green/environmental for Agencies Join in Award-Winning Crayfish Project.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Writing > News Story > Print-based newspaper for Gunman Kills 3, Injures 10 in Fordyce.

Audrey Poff, Publisher, Occasions Publishing Group:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Arts and entertainment for Broadway Veteran Returns to Direct Musical.
  • Second Place in Photography > Photo Essay for The Church of the Bluebirds.
  • First Place in Writing > Columns > Humorous for The Occasions Lady and Scalded Hydrangeas.
  • First Place in Editing for Print or Online Publications > Publication Regularly Edited by Entrant > Magazine/Magapaper for the September 2024 issue of Jonesboro Occasions.

Nicholas Popowitch, Deputy Online Editor, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Web and Social Media > Website Edited or Managed by Entrant > Corporate or for-profit for ArkansasOnline.com.

Andrea Price, Software and Business Enablement Coordinator, Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service:

  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Web and Social Media > Podcast for UADA Today.

Lora Puls, Graphic Designer, AY Media Group:

  • Honorable Mention in Graphics and Design > Page Design > Magazine or magapaper for Dream Lake Retreat.
  • Honorable Mention in Graphics and Design > Page Design > Magazine or magapaper for A Seat at the Table.
  • Second Place in Graphics and Design > Page Design > Magazine or magapaper for Little Rock Downtown Visitors Guide.
  • First Place in Graphics and Design > Page Design > Magazine or magapaper for Game Away From Game Day.

Stephanie Roat, NorthWest Arkansas Community College Eagle View:

  • Co-entrant:  Honorable Mention in Collegiate/Education > Writing> Features for Catching Up on CAST.

Kat Robinson, Author, Tonti Press:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Columns > General for River Valley Eats: Cunningham’s Barbecue.
  • Third Place in Writing > Feature Story > Magazine, newsletter/other publication for Hear Ye, Hear Ye.
  • Second Place in Graphics and Design > Book Designed by Entrant for The Arkansas Barbecue Traveler: A Roadside Companion for Hungry Wanderers.
  • First Place in Writing > Books, Short Stories, Verse > Nonfiction Book for Adult Readers > General Nonfiction for The Arkansas Barbecue Traveler.
  • First Place in Web and Social Media > Social Media Presence > Personal for Facebook.com/TieDyeTravels – Kat Robinson’s Facebook page about Arkansas and its food.

Kerry Rodtnick, Extension Videographer, Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service:

  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Web and Social Media > Video for Web > Special-interest video for Ag is Big.
  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Web and Social Media > Podcast for UADA Today.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Communications Programs and Campaigns > Public Service Program or Campaign for 2024 Arkansas Ballot Issue Education Program.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Web and Social Media > Video for Web > Special-interest video for Tusk VI: Ag is Big in Arkansas.

Maggie Ryan, Anchor/Reporter, Little Rock Public Radio:

  • Honorable Mention in Radio and Television > Prepared Report > Radio for Netflix Reality Show Raises Questions Qbout the Ethics of Filming Incarcerated People.
  • Honorable Mention in Radio and Television > Prepared Report > Radio for Arkansas and Tennessee Challenge Federal Rule Adding Abortion to Pregnancy Protections.
  • Second Place in Radio and Television > Prepared Report > Radio for Changes to Hendrix Office of Diversity and Inclusion Spark Confusion.
  • First Place in Radio and Television > Interview > Radio for Three Weeks in al-Aqsa: A Doctor’s View of the Gaza Crisis.

Fernanda Sanchez, Reporter, NorthWest Arkansas Community College Eagle View:

  • First Place in Collegiate/Education > Public Relations, Social Media or Recruitment/Involvement Campaign for SGA Voter Registration campaign.

Muriel Schrepfer, Graphic Designer, University of Arkansas at Little Rock:

  • Second Place in Advertising > Single Advertisement for Experience ad.
  • First Place in Public Relations Materials > Brochure > Nonprofit, government or educational for Admissions social piece.
  • First Place in Advertising > Advertising Poster, Billboard or Banner for 2024-25 combined home basketball poster.
  • First Place in Graphics and Design > Book Designed by Entrant for UA Little Rock brand style guide.
  • First Place in Advertising > Advertising Campaign for Trojan Guarantee ad campaign.
  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Communications Programs and Campaigns > Public Relations Campaign > Integrated Communications for UA Little Rock Eclipse Event.

Jamie Smith, Owner, Jamie’s Notebook:

  • First Place in Writing > Books, Short Stories, Verse > Nonfiction Book for Adult Readers > Autobiography or Memoir for Destination Changes.

Sarah Smythe, Copy Editor/Page Designer, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Honorable Mention in Graphics and Design > Page Design > Newspaper for Page 1B of the December 26, 2024, edition.
  • Third Place in Writing > Headlines.

Josh Snyder, Reporter, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Co-entrant:  Honorable Mention in Writing > Continuing Coverage or Unfolding News for Arkansas Prison Director Dispute.
  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Writing > News Story > Print-based newspaper for State Shares a Moment – 2024 Total Eclipse.

Aprille Spivey, Marketing Content Writer, Arkansas Children’s Health Care System/freelance reporter:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > In-depth reporting for What the Catholic Church Teaches About Purpose for Work/Faith at work:  How Professionals Blend Belief With Their Careers/Sidebar:  What is a Just Wage?
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > In-depth reporting for (1) Gun Violence Should be Looked at Through Pro-life, Moral Lens and (2) Student and Pastor Reflect on 1998 Jonesboro Shooting.
  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Religion for 8-year-old Deepens Holy Commitment After Indy Event.
  • Honorable Mention in Web and Social Media > Blog > Nonprofit, government or educational for Scrubs and a Paint Brush: Arkansas Children’s Kendall Stanford Gives Gifts of Healing, Art.
  • Third Place in Writing > Personality Profile > More than 750 words for The Soul of Cooking:  Longtime Chef Jamie McAfee Earns Prestigious Accolade.
  • Third Place in Web and Social Media > Blog > Nonprofit, government or educational for Solar Eclipse 2024:  How to Protect Your Child’s Eyes.
  • Second Place in Web and Social Media > Blog > Nonprofit, government or educational for Arkansas Children’s Patient Wesley Benham First in State to Receive FDA-approved DMD Gene Therapy.
  • First Place in Web and Social Media > Blog > Nonprofit, government or educational for ‘I’m all in’: Nurse, Mayor Stephanie White Driven to Change the World.

Robert Steinbuch, Columnist, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Columns > General for Bar Fight.

Brandon Tabor, News Director, KASU:

  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Radio and Television > Talk Show > Radio for the August 23, 2024, edition of The Arkansas Newswrap.

Alex Thomas, Washington Bureau Reporter, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Third Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Agriculture for Farm Bill Must be an Overhaul, Boozman Says.

Julie Thompson, Design/Support Specialist, Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service:

  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Communications Programs and Campaigns > Public Service Program or Campaign for 2024 Arkansas Ballot Issue Education Program.

Charla Tozer, Graphic Design Assistant, University of Arkansas at Little Rock:

  • Second Place in Collegiate/Education > Art and Design > Design (print or electronic) for Grad Night at the Jack invitation.
  • Second Place in Collegiate/Education > Art and Design > Graphics/illustrations for law school building outline.
  • First Place in Collegiate/Education > Art and Design > Graphics/illustrations for UA Little Rock Downtown sticker sheet.
  • First Place in Collegiate/Education > Art and Design > Advertisement for holiday art sale graphic.

Klansee Tozer, Senior Graphic Designer, University of Arkansas at Little Rock:

  • Honorable Mention in Graphics and Design > Graphics > Graphics for Trojan Way dedication.
  • Second Place in Public Relations Materials > Brochure > Nonprofit, government or educational for Donaghey Scholars Honors Program recruitment mailer.
  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Public Relations Materials > Report for UA Little Rock Annual Report 2024.

Nathan Treece, Anchor/Reporter, Little Rock Public Radio:

  • Second Place in Radio and Television > On-the-scene Report > Radio for Eloping During an Eclipse.
  • Second Place in Radio and Television > Best Newscast > Radio for the July 19, 2024, newscast.

Sadie Tucker, College Communications Director, University of Arkansas at Little Rock:

  • Honorable Mention in Writing > Specialty Articles > Arts and entertainment for UA Little Rock’s School of Literary and Performing Arts Offers Students Immersive Experiences.
  • First Place in Writing > News Story > Online publication for UA Little Rock to Celebrate Reopening of Gallery One September 12.

Graham Underwood, Copy Editor, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Second Place in Writing > Headlines.

Staci Vandagriff, Staff Photographer, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Honorable Mention in Photography > Single Photograph > News or feature photo or feature photo for Match Day.
  • Second Place in Photography > Single Photograph > News or feature photo or feature photo for Crypto Committee Meeting.

Adam Vogler, Staff Photographer, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Honorable Mention in Photography > Single Photograph > News or feature photo or feature photo for Kaleidoscope.

Tess Vrbin, Reporter, Arkansas Advocate:

  • Third Place in Writing > Continuing Coverage or Unfolding News for Arkansas Library Obscenity Law Declared Unconstitutional.
  • First Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Health for Health Care Resources Limited for Income-constrained, Working Arkansans, Especially in Rural Areas.

Lea Whitlock, Public Relations Manager, The Peacock Group; Leadership Greater Little Rock Class XL:

  • Co-entrant:  First Place in Public Relations Materials > Report for College Station Conversations.

Michael R. Wickline, Politics Reporter, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette:

  • Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Government or politics for Online Gambling Expansion is Sought.
  • Co-entrant:  Second Place in Writing > Specialty Articles > Sports for Legislator Proposes Raffles to Help Pay College Athletes.

Jan Ziegler, Retired Education, Pocahontas, Arkansas:

  • First Place in Speeches > Speech for Two Incredible Women and the Children Who Needed Them.

Arkansas Press Women (APW) is an association of professional communicators in journalism, public information, business, education and government. To learn more about APW, visit https://arkansaspresswomen.org/.