Submit entries now. May 31 is the deadline for entries.
NEW CATEGORIES - INCREASED PRIZE MONEYAs the world of editorial writing and commentary continues to evolve, so too will the criteria for this year's Carmage Walls Commentary Prize.
The distinction between circulation categories is less important today, especially when digital readership is factored in. So, there will not be separate categories this year based on circulation. All entries will be judged in an open call, but distinctions will be made between types of editorials and columns. And, the cash prizes awarded to the winners are being increased, thanks to the generous support of Lissa Walls Cribb, CEO of Southern Newspapers, who provides the funding for the cash awards, as the contest sponsor. This year, a total of $20,000 in cash prizes will be awarded. Entries must have been published in print or online between June 1, 2025, and May 31, 2026. This year's Carmage Walls Commentary Prize, presented by the America's Newspapers Foundation, will recognize a wider variety of newspaper commentary. The contest has been revamped to recognize outstanding editorials and commentary in four distinct areas. The awards will be presented at the America's Newspapers Senior Leadership Conference, to be held Sept. 28-30 in Washington, D.C. Contest Categories |
FOCUSED EDITORIALS
This category recognizes editorials that examine a single, clearly defined issue, action or decision affecting a local community. Entries should reflect the official position of the newspaper and demonstrate clarity of purpose, strong reasoning and relevance to local impact.
Submit up to three editorials addressing the same topic as part of one entry.
Submit up to three editorials addressing the same topic as part of one entry.
ENTERPRISE EDITORIALS
This category honors editorials grounded in substantial research and analysis. Eligible entries should reflect original reporting, data analysis or comparative research and represent the newspaper’s official position on a single issue. These editorials may draw on investigative work, data journalism or lessons drawn from other communities or industries. Topic selection is broad; evaluation will focus on the depth and rigor of the research informing the editorial.
Submit up to three editorials addressing the same topic as part of one entry.
Submit up to three editorials addressing the same topic as part of one entry.
PERSONAL INTEREST COLUMNS
This category recognizes signed columns written from an individual perspective that explore human interest topics, including family life, community experiences and everyday challenges or successes. Entries should demonstrate strong voice, storytelling and relevance to readers through personal insight.
Submit up to three columns. Columns do not need to address the same subject.
Submit up to three columns. Columns do not need to address the same subject.
SIGNED POLITICAL AND SOCIAL COMMENTARY
This category recognizes signed columns offering opinion and analysis on political, governmental or broader social issues. Entries should present a clear point of view, encourage thoughtful consideration and contribute to public understanding or debate.
Submit up to three columns. Columns do not need to address the same subject.
Submit up to three columns. Columns do not need to address the same subject.
Entry Fees & Prizes
Contest fees are $50 per entry.
In each category, the following cash awards will be presented at this September’s Senior Leadership Conference:
· First-place — $3,000
· Second-place — $1,250
· Third-place — $750
Additional Honorable Mentions may also be awarded by the judges at their discretion.
In each category, the following cash awards will be presented at this September’s Senior Leadership Conference:
· First-place — $3,000
· Second-place — $1,250
· Third-place — $750
Additional Honorable Mentions may also be awarded by the judges at their discretion.
Contest Rules
- This contest is open to employees or freelance writers with newspapers that are members of America's Newspapers. Not sure if your paper is a member? Email [email protected].
- Entries must have been published in print or online between June 1, 2025, and May 31, 2026.
- The deadline for entries is 11:59 p.m. on May 31, 2026.
- Each entry may include up to three editorials or columns. Those columns and editorials can be uploaded with your entry form either as a PDF or Word document.
- Multiple entry packets can be submitted by individuals and newspapers.
- Contest fees are $50 per entry.
- The person submitting the entry will be invoiced in early June.
- Questions? Contact Cindy Durham at [email protected].