We are so excited to announce the 2026 Community Media Award Honorees! These honorees and their commitment to authentic storytelling and community voice help shape the public square. They represent the best in Chicago journalism, media making, storytelling, and civic engagement; centering the lived experiences of our friends and neighbors.
Like Studs Terkel (shown in photo with bullhorn), who spent decades amplifying the voices of everyday people, these honorees understand that the most powerful stories emerge when we listen deeply to our communities.
Studs Terkel Community Media Award
- Ben Austen, Freelancer
- Alma Campos, South Side Weekly
- Gregory Royal Pratt, Chicago Tribune
- Laura Rodriguez Presa, Chicago Tribune
- Jennifer Smith Richards, ProPublica Illinois
Uplifting Voices
- Francia Garcia Hernandez, Block Club Chicago
Ripple Effect
- Block Club Chicago Newsroom
Dr. Timuel D. Black Award for Civic Engagement
- Individual – Charles Preston, Injustice Watch
- Organization – Coalition for Spiritual and Public Leadership
Lifetime Achievement
- Denise Zaccardi, Community TV Network
People’s Choice (Tiebreaker)
We need your help selecting the 2026 People’s Choice Honoree! Please vote by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026.
- Francia Garcia Hernandez, Bilingual Journalist at Block Club Chicago
- Sonja Henderson, Freelance Visual Artist
- Elio Leturia, Freelance Visual/Multi-media Journalist
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Jorge Mújica Murias, Campaign Organizer, Arise Chicago
Join us in celebrating their exceptional work at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at the Chicago Cultural Center. Secure your seat for this celebration of Chicago journalism and learn how to invest in narrative change!
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