The Neal Conan Prize for Excellence in Journalism
The Neal Conan Prize for Excellence in Journalism honors mid-career journalists who embody Neal's belief that fairness, curiosity, and humanity matter most — and who continue to pursue those ideals even when the path ahead is uncertain. Established in 2023 to honor the legacy of Neal Conan, the American radio journalist who spent nearly four decades at NPR in roles ranging from producer to bureau chief to host of Talk of the Nation, the prize invests not in a past lifetime of work, but in the work still to come.
Each year on Neal's birthday, the recipient receives $50,000 in unrestricted support — no reporting requirements, no prescribed use. It invests in the journalist, not a deliverable, honoring the rigor, nuance, creative storytelling, public service, and courage that defined Neal's own work.
How are Prize winners chosen?
The recipient is chosen by an Advisory Committee of peers and practitioners — friends of Neal's with deep connections to his legacy and extensive expertise in journalism. The Committee sources nominations based on the prize's criteria and considers active journalists working in print, online, radio, and broadcast from every region of the world. It is supported by the "Neal Conan Prize for Excellence in Journalism Fund," a fund at Greater Horizons.
To select the recipient, the Advisory Committee evaluates each nominee's exemplary work and published biographical information, weighing both their impact on the field and how their values align with Neal's:
• Commitment to excellence in the craft
• Integrity and courage in pursuit of truth
• Nuanced understanding of complex issues
• Human-centered storytelling and respect for the audience
• Depth of research and preparation
• Belief in honest, creative storytelling, including visual storytelling
• A lifelong curiosity and drive to learn
• Journalism as public service
Common Questions
Can individuals nominate themselves or others for the prize?
Individuals cannot nominate themselves for this Prize. However, you are welcome to nominate a journalist of excellence that you believe might be a fit for the prize. Please visit the Nominate page for more information.
Who is on the Advisory Committee?
The Advisory Committee includes friends of Neal Conan who have a deep connection to his legacy and individuals with expertise in the field of journalism. The committee is made up of volunteers who wish to remain behind the scenes
How can I learn more about the Prize?
Inquiries can be sent using the contact button below. The Committee consists of volunteers who wish to remain behind the scenes. The Prize does not have dedicated staffing. Please allow ample response time.