The Neal Conan Prize for Excellence in Journalism
The Neal Conan Prize for Excellence in Journalism is an annual prize awarded to a mid-career journalist who is doing extraordinary work in the spirit of the public good. The Prize was established in 2023 by friends to honor the legacy of Neal Conan, the American radio journalist who spent nearly four decades at NPR in roles ranging from producer to bureau chief to host of Talk of the Nation.
In honor of Neal, an unrestricted $50,000 prize will be awarded on his birthday to a journalist who embodies the talent, drive and values that Neal brought to his work: a commitment to excellence in the craft, a nuanced understanding of global issues, a belief in the power of honest, creative storytelling, a dedication to public service and courage in the pursuit of truth.
How are Prize winners chosen?
The winner is chosen by an Advisory Committee, which includes friends from Neal’s life who each have a deep connection to his legacy as well as individuals with experience and expertise in the field of journalism. Currently, the Advisory Committee sources nominations based on the prize’s criteria and considers active journalists working in print, online, radio and broadcast from every region of the world. At this point in time, individuals cannot apply or nominate other journalists for this prize. The Prize is supported by the “Neal Conan Prize for Excellence in Journalism Fund,” a fund at Greater Horizons.
To select the winner, the Advisory Committee reviews each nominee’s existing body of journalistic work and any published biographical information and considers both the nominees’ impact in the field of journalism and how to their values line up with Neal’s values which include:
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Standard of excellence and commitment to excellence in the craft
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Unyielding integrity
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Courage in pursuit of truth
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Nuanced understanding of issues
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Passion for human interest angles
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Belief in the power of honest, creative storytelling, including visual storytelling
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A depth and quality of research; consistently does their homework
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A drive for lifelong learning in pursuits and experiences outside of the classroom
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Respect for the audience; a belief that people can/will understand complex things
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Embodying journalism as a service to the republic
Common Questions
Can individuals nominate themselves or others for the prize?
At this point in time, individuals cannot apply or nominate other journalists for this Prize. However, you are welcome to send a suggestion to the Advisory Committee for consideration below.
Who is on the Advisory Committee?
The Advisory Committee includes friends of Neal Conan who have a deep connection to his legacy as well as individuals with experience and expertise in the field of journalism, and past prize winners.
How can I learn more about the Prize?
Inquiries can be sent using the contact button below. The Committee consists of volunteers who wish to remain behind the scenes. The Prize does not have dedicated staffing. Please allow ample response time.