The American Penal Press Contest

American Penal Press Contest

Originally launched by Southern Illinois University, Carbondale (SIU) in 1965, the American Penal Press Contest is back!

Co-sponsored by SIU and Pollen Initiative, the contest aims to strengthen the prison press by shining a light on its strength, providing professional feedback, encouraging healthy competition between publications, and building common ground between the prison press and the outside journalism industry.

Entries will be accepted until May 30, 2025 and winners will be announced in September.

Categories

Awards for publications

  • Charles C. Clayton Award for Best Journalistic Performance
  • Best Newspaper
  • Best Magazine
  • Best Debut Publication
  • Best Newsletter 

Awards for individual contributions

  • Best Opinion

  • Best Feature

  • Best Longform Magazine Article

  • Best Sports Coverage

  • Best Local Coverage

  • Best Visual Journalism

Awards for individuals

  • Newsroom Leader of the Year

  • Woman Prison Journalist of the Year

  • Advisor of the Year

How to Enter

The American Penal Press Awards are open now through May 30, 2025. Complete one form per award category and submit by email to [email protected] or by mail to: 

PO Box 3252

Attn: Anne Ray

Church St. Station

New York, NY 10008-3252

Enter the contest

Questions?

Email APPC Project Coordinator Anne Ray at [email protected].

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