The story behind the Prize.
Prize Overview
Why mid-career
To keep great journalists in journalism. Mid-career reporters often face pivotal transitions as newsrooms and formats change. The Prize backs journalists who carry fairness, curiosity, and humanity into their next chapter.
An Annual Prize Award
Each year, the prize awards $50,000 in unrestricted support — no reporting requirements, no prescribed use — to a journalist whose work reflects Neal's commitment to excellence: rigor in verification, nuanced understanding of complex issues, courage in covering difficult subjects, and a deep belief in journalism as public service.
How the Winner is Chosen
The recipient is selected by an Advisory Committee of peers and practitioners who share a deep connection to Neal's legacy and extensive experience in journalism. Working across print, online, radio, and broadcast, the committee sources nominees from every region of the world and evaluates each based on exemplary work — looking for rigor, courage, and integrity rather than institutional affiliation.
In Honor of Neal Conan
Neal J. Conan
Neal Conan spent nearly four decades at NPR as a reporter, producer, editor, and host of Talk of the Nation. His fairness, curiosity, and respect for listeners guide the Prize created in his memory.
2025 Prize Winner
Mohammed Mhawish
Palestinian journalist Mohammed Mhawish reports with courage and humanity under extraordinary conditions. His work for The Nation, The New Yorker, and other outlets documents life in Gaza and the experiences of those displaced by war.