HSPA recognizing excellence In journalism & newspaper advertising

Each year the Hoosier State Press Association and Foundation celebrates its members work by sponsoring the Better News Contest and encourages its members to submit their papers, articles, and photography for consideration. The awards are announced as part of HSPA’s annual conference that takes place in the fall. The conference is an opportunity to also hear from experts in media and surrounding fields, network with other industry professionals, and get involved in the association.

2026 Results

Check out the 2026 HSPA Journalism Award winners

2026 Journalism Award Winners

HSPA Journalism Awards

Presented annually through the HSPA Foundation's Better Newspaper Contest, these awards recognize the quality produced by newsrooms across Indiana. Beyond the featured honors below, the contest also recognizes work across three broad categories: writing awards, photography & multimedia awards, and General Excellence.

Blue Ribbon

The highest accolade of the HSPA Foundation Better Newspaper Contest. Judges base this award on an overall evaluation of the editorial quality of the newspaper. One daily and one non-daily newspaper are honored, regardless of circulation size.

View Blue Ribbon Winners (PDF) →

Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust Environmental Journalism Award

$1,000 Award

Recognizes excellence in reporting on environmental issues. This award is made possible through a grant by the Nina Mason Pulliam Trust to the HSPA Foundation.

Karl Schneider

The Indianapolis Star

Story of the Year

One story is selected by the Better Newspaper Contest judges as Indiana's Story of the Year award winner.

Kristine Phillips & Staff

The Indianapolis Star

Photo of the Year

One photo is selected by the Better Newspaper Contest judges as Indiana's Photo of the Year award winner.

Ray Cooney

The Commercial Review

Spooky Champ

2026 HSPA Journalism Award Winners

Browse the list of previous winners from the 2026 Journalism Conference and Awards.

View Information →

Questions?

Contact Us!

Pamela Wells-Lego

Office: (317) 803-4772

Email: plego@hspa.com

HSPA INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP AWARDS

Presented by the HSPA Board of Directors

Distinguished Service Award

The HSPA board of directors presents its Distinguished Service Award to an individual who has made a significant impact on the newspaper industry through HSPA committee work, board membership, lobbying efforts, or legal action; who has performed outstanding service to the newspaper industry in general; or who has demonstrated service in the local community that reflected positively on its newspaper.

Learn More about Nomination Process

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