In the Society of Professional Journalists’ “Ohio’s Best Journalism Contest,” the Ohio Capital Journal won seven awards last week, including three first-place and four second-place awards. The contest featured op-eds and editorials from 2023.
The latest awards come after the Ohio Capital Journal won seven SPJ awards last year and five the year before. In all, the Ohio Capital Journal has won 19 Ohio Society of Professional Journalists awards in the past three years.
In the digital media categories, Capital Journal senior reporter Marty Schladen won first place for best government/politics reporting; reporter Megan Henry won first place for best education reporting; and editor/columnist David DeWitt and columnist Marilou Johanek won first place for best overall blog comment/opinion section.
Reporter Susan Tebben was named second in the best educational feature; OCJ/WEWS reporter Morgan Trau was named second in the best government/political feature; reporter Susan Tebben was named second in the best medical/science/healthcare feature; and the Ohio Capital Journal was named second in the best news website category.
We are incredibly honored and grateful for this recognition from our journalistic colleagues. We are also honored and grateful for all the support we receive from our readers and Ohioans across the state.
The award-winning works are presented below.
Best Government/Political Reporting – First Place – Marty Schladen
Ohio utility regulator at center stage in massive bailout scandal
Analysis: Corruption scandal shows how Ohio politics are tainted by murky money
Money Paid, Favors Done: News Details Relationship Between Ohio Regulator and Energy Executives
Best Report on Educational Issues – First Place – Megan Henry
Inside Ohio Prison Activities
‘Reading is a Fundamental Right.’ Ohio Parents of Dyslexic Students See Benefits of Learning to Read
In 22 Ohio school districts, employees are allowed to carry weapons on school grounds.
Best Overall Commentary/Opinion Blog – First Place – David DeWitt and Marilou Johanek
Ohio Shame: Corrupt, Manipulated Republicans in State Legislature Attack Voters Again
Gerrymandering Ohio GOP lawmakers launch tyrannical attack on 170 years of majority rule
The No. 1 issue in Ohio isn’t about any particular issue — it’s about all the issues and the power that Ohio voters have.
Best Government/Political Reporting – Runner-up – Morgan Trau
Ohio Secretary of State LaRose Admits That Obstacle to Constitutional Amendment Is ‘100% About… Abortion’
Six transgender girls play sports in Ohio, but the Republican Party wants them kicked out
How Ohio’s No. 1 problem could affect the rest of the country
Former Ohio House Speaker Sentenced to 20 Years in State’s Largest Bribery Scheme
