Texas Tribune Earns Recognition at Annual Awards Ceremony
The Texas Tribune recently celebrated significant achievements in journalism, winning five prestigious awards at the Texas Managing Editors annual conference held in San Antonio. These awards honor exemplary reporting from 2024, emphasizing the Tribune’s commitment to uncovering critical issues affecting Texas residents.
Award-Winning Investigations on the Texas-Mexico Border
A notable highlight was the investigation into the construction of the state’s border wall, which earned two prominent awards: the Star Online Package and the Freedom of Information Award. Conducted by a team including Zach Despart, Yuriko Schumacher, Uriel J. García, Ben Lowy, and Eli Hartman, this inquiry utilized public records and in-depth reporting methods to shed light on the complexities of the $3.1 billion project.
“Exceptional look at how rhetoric, policy, practicality, and the human element all intersect,” exclaimed the judges, praising the project’s depth and narrative quality.
Additionally, freelance photographer Ben Lowy received first place honors for his impactful photography associated with the border wall article, highlighting the visual storytelling that accompanied these detailed investigations.
Collaboration Enhances Border Coverage
The Tribune’s collaborative efforts also garnered acclaim, securing first place for Team Effort. This award recognized various contributions, including the border wall investigation and a joint piece with the Associated Press, which depicted a typical 24 hours on the Texas-Mexico border. Judges remarked on the outstanding investigative work that provided clarity on complex political discussions surrounding border policies.
Design Excellence Amidst Data-Driven Stories
Yuriko Schumacher, a member of the Tribune’s data visuals team, was honored as Designer of the Year. Her work included the border wall story as well as pieces addressing elections, climate change, and healthcare. According to the judges, Schumacher’s innovative designs offered compelling storytelling through visuals.
“Innovative use of web page design to create interesting and interactive stories that grab and hold attention,” the judges noted, highlighting her ability to convert complex information into engaging formats.
Additional Recognitions
In addition to the major awards, several journalists from the Texas Tribune received further accolades in various categories:
- Schumacher won second place for Infographics.
- Kayla Guo and Eleanor Klibanoff earned second place for Star Breaking News Report.
- Zach Despart took second place for the Michael Brick Storytelling Award.
- Robert Downen received third place for Star Investigative Report.
- Pooja Salhotra was recognized with an honorable mention for Specialty Reporting.
- The Tribune staff collectively earned an honorable mention for Star Breaking News Report.
Upcoming Events and Community Engagement
Looking ahead, the Texas Tribune is gearing up for the 15th annual Texas Tribune Festival, set to take place from November 13–15 in downtown Austin. Early ticket purchases are encouraged, with significant savings available until May 1. This annual event is recognized as a major gathering for innovative discussions on ideas and political engagement within the state.
For ticket information and details about the festival, you can visit the festival webpage.