CONTACT:
Matthew Kent, Program Coordinator, 317-920-4788, mkent@spj.org
Zoë Berg, SPJ Communications Coordinator, 317-920-4785, zberg@spj.org

SAN ANTONIO – The Society of Professional Journalists has named Eastern Kentucky University as this year’s recipient of the Campus Program of the Year Award.

Eastern Kentucky’s First Amendment Week impressed SPJ's regional directors and regional coordinators, who served as judges for these awards.

The week included a discussion with journalists from around the state about hostility and challenges they face; a memorial for international journalists killed on the job; a Freedom of Information panel; and a discussion about freedom of religion. There also was a podcast on banned books.

The runner-up in this category is California State University at Sacramento for its program on coverage of immigrants and refugees.

Sacramento Bee journalist Steve Magagnini shared his experiences covering refugee committees and the resettlement process. The talk was connected to an art exhibition that included some of Magagnini’s work.

SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to informing citizens; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and fights to protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. Support excellent journalism and fight for your right to know. Become a member, give to the Legal Defense Fund or give to the SPJ Foundation.

-END-