Poynter Institute Honors Exceptional Journalism with 2024 Prizes

The Poynter Institute has announced the 10 winners of the 2024 Poynter Journalism Prizes, recognizing exceptional journalism across various platforms in the United States. The inaugural contest, which received over 525 entries from more than 300 news organizations and individual journalists, aims to honor great journalism that makes a difference in people's lives and communities.

Among the winners is STAT's investigative series "Denied by AI: Consequences for Sick and Vulnerable Americans," which revealed how UnitedHealth's AI algorithm was used to deny care to seriously ill patients. Led by reporters Casey Ross and Bob Herman, the series was awarded the Batten Medal, which recognizes journalism that makes a difference in people's lives.

Other notable winners include KHOU 11 TV's investigation into the Coffee City, Texas Police Department, and the San Francisco Chronicle's reporting on the city's drug trade. The awards come with cash prizes sponsored by various organizations, with winners receiving $1,000 or $2,500 depending on the category.

Why this matters: The Poynter Journalism Prizes showcase the vital role of journalism in holding those in power accountable and shedding light on critical issues affecting communities. By recognizing and rewarding exceptional journalism, the Poynter Institute encourages media organizations to continue producing high-quality, impactful reporting that makes a difference in people's lives.

The Poynter Journalism Prizes feature 10 categories focused on different aspects of writing, reporting, and leadership, including excellence in writing, local accountability reporting, community-minded public service, justice reporting, editorial and column writing, innovation, diversity leadership, and First Amendment work. Poynter president Neil Brown noted that the judges were faced with a difficult task due to the high caliber of entries, stating, "The Poynter Journalism Prizes honor great journalism that makes a difference, found in a diverse range of news organizations and communities."

The contest, previously run by the News Leaders Association, has moved to Poynter this year, continuing a 45-year tradition of honoring exceptional journalism. Despite the economic challenges faced by many newsrooms, the judges were impressed by the depth of quality in the entries. In addition to the prizes, the Poynter Institute is offering various training opportunities and resources for journalists, including workshops on covering political extremism and the impact of AI on journalism.

Key Takeaways

• Poynter Institute announces 10 winners of 2024 Journalism Prizes.
• STAT's investigation on UnitedHealth's AI algorithm denying care wins Batten Medal.
• Other winners include KHOU 11 TV and San Francisco Chronicle investigations.
• Prizes aim to honor exceptional journalism making a difference in communities.
• Poynter Institute offers training on political extremism and AI's impact on journalism.