What is the primary purpose of the Alfred I. duPont–Columbia University Award?

The Alfred I. duPont–Columbia University Award honors excellence in broadcast and digital journalism that serves the public interest. It is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious accolades in the field of journalism, recognizing outstanding contributions to news reporting across various media platforms.

What types of journalism are recognized by the Alfred I. duPont–Columbia University Award?

The award recognizes excellence in television, radio, and digital journalism. These categories encompass a broad spectrum of news reporting and documentary work presented through electronic and online media.

Which institution currently presents the Alfred I. duPont–Columbia University Award?

The award is currently presented by the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism, located in New York City. This institution is a renowned center for journalism education and research.

When were the Alfred I. duPont–Columbia University Awards first established?

The Alfred I. duPont–Columbia University Awards were established in 1942. This marked the beginning of a long tradition of recognizing journalistic excellence.

Which university initially administered the duPont Awards, and for how long?

From its establishment in 1942 until 1967, the duPont Awards were administered by Washington and Lee University's O. W. Riegel, who served as Curator and Head of the Department of Journalism and Communications.

When did Columbia University assume administration of the duPont Awards?

Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism took over the administration of the duPont Awards in 1968. Since then, it has continued to oversee the selection and presentation of these prestigious honors.

How is the duPont Award sometimes compared to other prestigious journalism awards?

The duPont Award is considered by some to be the broadcast equivalent of the Pulitzer Prize, another highly esteemed program also administered by Columbia University. Alongside the George Foster Peabody Awards, it ranks among the most prestigious awards programs in all electronic media.

What is the overarching mission of the duPont awards, beyond honoring excellence?

Beyond honoring excellence, the duPont awards are dedicated to upholding the highest journalism standards. They aim to inform the public about the contributions news organizations and journalists make to their communities, support journalism education and innovation, and cultivate a collective spirit for the profession.

Who established the duPont-Columbia Awards and in whose memory?

The duPont-Columbia Awards were established by Jessie Ball duPont in memory of her husband, Alfred I. du Pont. This act of remembrance created a lasting legacy for journalistic recognition.

When did the duPont Award begin accepting digital submissions?

Starting in 2009, the duPont Award expanded its scope to begin accepting digital submissions, reflecting the evolving landscape of journalism. Prior to this, it was primarily known as the most respected journalism-only award for broadcast journalism.

What is the eligibility period for programs considered for a duPont-Columbia Award?

The duPont-Columbia jury selects winners from programs that air in the United States between July 1 and June 30 of each year. This annual cycle ensures timely recognition of recent journalistic achievements.

What do the winners of the duPont-Columbia Awards receive?

Award winners receive batons, which are designed by the American architect Louis I. Kahn. These batons come in both gold and silver, signifying different levels of recognition.

What is the specific significance of the Gold Baton in the duPont-Columbia Awards?

The Gold Baton, when awarded, is given exclusively in honor of truly outstanding broadcast journalism. It represents the highest level of achievement recognized by the duPont jury.

Which program was the first foreign-language recipient of a duPont-Columbia Award, and for what reporting?

In 2003, CNN en Español and reporter Jorge Gestoso received the first-ever foreign-language program award, a Silver Baton, for their investigative reporting on Argentina's 'desaparecidos' (forcibly disappeared persons).

What was the first digital reporting award given for, and to whom?

In 2010, the first award for digital reporting was given to MediaStorm and photographer Jonathan Torgovnik for their work titled 'Intended Consequences,' which focused on children born of rape in Rwanda.

Which theatrically released documentary film was first honored by the duPont jury, and what was its subject?

In 2012, the Oscar-nominated film 'Hell and Back Again' was the first theatrically released documentary film to be honored by the duPont jury. It explored the war in Afghanistan and the challenges faced by veterans returning home.

Who were some of the earliest individual recipients of the duPont Award in the 1940s?

Early individual recipients of the duPont Award in the 1940s included Fulton Lewis Jr. (1942), Raymond Gram Swing (1943), H. V. Kaltenborn (1944), Lowell Thomas (1945), Elmer Davis (1946), Edward R. Murrow (1947), and Henry J. Taylor (1948).

Which radio stations were among the first to receive the duPont Award in the early 1940s?

Among the first radio stations to receive the duPont Award were KGEI Radio in San Francisco (1942), WLW Radio in Cincinnati (1943), WMAZ Radio in Macon, Georgia (1943), WJR Radio in Detroit (1944), and WTAG Radio in Worcester, Massachusetts (1944).

When did television stations first start receiving duPont Awards, and which station was among the first?

Television stations began receiving duPont Awards in 1949, with WPIX-TV in New York being among the first recipients. This marked the expansion of the award to include the emerging medium of television.

Who was the first female journalist to win a duPont Award, and in what year?

Pauline Frederick was the first female journalist to win a duPont Award in 1953. She was recognized for her contributions to journalism, breaking ground for women in the field.

Which individual journalist received the duPont Award multiple times in the early decades?

Howard K. Smith received the duPont Award twice, first in 1955 and again in 1962, recognizing his consistent excellence in broadcast journalism during those years.

What significant international reporting earned ABC News' 'Nightline' a Gold Baton in 1986?

ABC News' 'Nightline' received a Gold Baton in 1986 for its comprehensive coverage of 'South Africa,' highlighting critical global issues through in-depth reporting.

What was the subject of the Gold Baton-winning 'CBS Reports' program in 1987, presented by Bill Moyers?

In 1987, 'CBS Reports: The Vanishing Family—Crisis in Black America,' presented by Bill Moyers, earned a Gold Baton for its impactful and insightful reporting on a significant social issue.

Which landmark civil rights documentary series received a Gold Baton in 1988?

Blackside, Inc.'s 'Eyes on the Prize: America's Civil Rights Years, 1954-1965' received a Gold Baton in 1988, recognized as a pivotal documentary series chronicling the American Civil Rights Movement.

Which long-running news magazine program received a Gold Baton in 1989 for its overall excellence?

CBS News' '60 Minutes' received a Gold Baton in 1989, acknowledging its consistent high standards and impactful investigative journalism over the years.

What type of programming earned WGBH and Frontline a Gold Baton in 1990?

WGBH and Frontline received a Gold Baton in 1990 for a series of investigative documentaries, including 'Remember My Lai,' 'The Spy Who Broke the Code,' 'Who Profits From Drugs?,' 'The Choice,' and 'Children of the Night,' demonstrating their commitment to in-depth reporting.

What was the focus of WGBH-TV's Gold Baton-winning 'Frontline' series in 1991?

WGBH-TV and Martin Smith Productions' 'Frontline: Inside Gorbachev's USSR with Hedrick Smith' earned a Gold Baton in 1991, providing an in-depth look at the Soviet Union during a period of significant change.

What broad range of topics earned Bill Moyers and Public Affairs Television a Gold Baton in 1992?

Bill Moyers and Public Affairs Television received a Gold Baton in 1992 for their diverse programming, including 'After the War,' 'The Home Front,' 'Beyond Hate,' and 'Amazing Grace,' which explored various social and cultural themes.

What diverse coverage earned National Public Radio a Gold Baton in 1993?

National Public Radio (NPR) received a Gold Baton in 1993 for its extensive coverage, including the Clarence Thomas Nomination Hearings, the 1992 Los Angeles Riots and Aftermath, 'Voices from the Backstairs,' the 'American Folklife Radio Project,' and 'The Case Against Women: Sexism in the Court,' showcasing its comprehensive journalistic approach.

Who received a Gold Baton in 1994 for their lifetime contribution to the ethics and practice of journalism?

Fred Friendly was honored with a Gold Baton in 1994 for his lifetime contribution to the ethics and practice of journalism, recognizing his profound influence on the profession.

What comprehensive coverage earned ABC News a Gold Baton in 1995?

ABC News received a Gold Baton in 1995 for its extensive coverage, including 'World News Tonight: Coverage of Haiti by Linda Pattillo,' 'American Agenda: Women's Health Week,' 'Day One: Smoke Screen,' 'Turning Point: Inside the Struggle: The Amy Biehl Story,' and 'Peter Jennings Reporting: While America Watched—The Bosnia Tragedy,' demonstrating broad and impactful reporting.

Who received a Gold Baton in 1996 for their extensive career spanning multiple news organizations?

Daniel Schorr received a Gold Baton in 1996, recognizing his distinguished career in journalism that spanned CBS News, CNN, and NPR, highlighting his significant contributions across different platforms.

What international documentary series received a Gold Baton in 1997?

Brian Lapping Associates' 'Yugoslavia: Death of a Nation,' broadcast on The Discovery Channel and the BBC, received a Gold Baton in 1997 for its in-depth examination of the conflict and dissolution of Yugoslavia.

What investigative series earned WGBH-TV's Frontline a Gold Baton in 1998?

WGBH-TV's Frontline received a Gold Baton in 1998 for a series of investigative reports, including 'Murder, Money and Mexico,' 'The Choice 96,' 'Secret Daughter,' and 'Innocence Lost: The Plea,' showcasing its commitment to uncovering complex issues.

What scientific and investigative series earned WGBH-TV's NOVA a Gold Baton in 1999?

WGBH-TV's NOVA received a Gold Baton in 1999 for a series of programs including 'Everest: The Death Zone,' 'The Brain Eater,' 'Supersonic Spies,' 'China's Mysterious Mummies,' and 'Coma,' demonstrating excellence in science and documentary filmmaking.

What program focusing on reconciliation received a Gold Baton in 2000?

Public Affairs Television's 'Facing the Truth with Bill Moyers' received a Gold Baton in 2000, recognized for its exploration of truth and reconciliation processes.

What radio documentary series received a Gold Baton in 2001 for its investigative reporting?

American RadioWorks received a Gold Baton in 2001 for 'Massacre at Cuska,' broadcast on NPR, which was recognized for its powerful investigative journalism in audio format.

What extensive series on the origin and impact of terrorism earned WGBH-TV's Frontline a Gold Baton in 2003?

WGBH-TV's Frontline received a Gold Baton in 2003 for a series of seven programs on PBS, including 'Hunting bin Laden,' 'Target America,' 'Looking for Answers,' 'Trail of a Terrorist,' 'Gunning for Saddam,' 'Saudi Time Bomb,' and 'Inside the Terror Network,' which comprehensively covered the origins and impact of Islamic militant terrorism.

What kind of reporting was recognized for WFAA-TV in Dallas with a Golden Baton in 2009?

WFAA-TV in Dallas received a Golden Baton in 2009 for its investigative reporting, specifically for segments titled 'Money for Nothing,' 'A Passing Offense,' and 'The Buried and the Dead,' highlighting local journalistic impact.

What recent Gold Baton winner focused on a wide range of global and social issues in 2019?

Frontline received a Gold Baton in 2019 for a diverse collection of programs, including 'Bitter Rivals: Iran and Saudi Arabia,' 'Life on Parole,' 'Living with Murder,' 'Mosul,' 'Myanmar's Killing Fields,' 'Putin's Revenge,' 'The Gang Crackdown,' and 'The Last Generation,' showcasing its continued commitment to in-depth global reporting.

What was a notable Gold Baton winner in 2023 for its coverage of national security in the information age?

CBS News' '60 Minutes' received a Gold Baton in 2023 for its comprehensive coverage of 'National Security in the Information Age,' which included segments on 'SolarWinds,' 'Deepfakes,' 'The Grid,' and 'Shields Up,' with Bill Whitaker as correspondent.

What was a significant Gold Baton winner in 2024 related to war reporting?

In 2024, '20 Days in Mariupol,' a collaboration between The Associated Press and PBS Frontline, received a Gold Baton for its powerful and harrowing reporting from the conflict zone in Ukraine.

Which radio program received a Silver Baton in 2008 for an episode exploring social differences?

Chicago Public Radio, Alix Spiegel, and PRI received a Silver Baton in 2008 for 'This American Life: Which One of These Is Not Like the Others?,' recognized for its unique approach to storytelling and social commentary.

What investigative reporting by KHOU-TV in Houston earned a Silver Baton in 2004?

KHOU-TV in Houston received a Silver Baton in 2004 for 'Evidence of Errors,' an investigative report that likely exposed systemic issues or mistakes within a particular field.

What was a notable Silver Baton winner in 2015 that explored the global impact of a scientific phenomenon?

The Seattle Times received a Silver Baton in 2015 for 'Sea Change: The Pacific's Perilous Turn,' a series that investigated the environmental challenges facing the Pacific Ocean.

What podcast received a Silver Baton in 2016 for its in-depth investigative journalism?

WBEZ and This American Life received a Silver Baton in 2016 for 'Serial: Season One,' a groundbreaking podcast that delved into a true crime investigation, captivating a wide audience.

What documentary film about the civil rights movement received a Silver Baton in 2014?

American Documentary – POV, Gail Dolgin & Robin Fryday received a Silver Baton in 2014 for 'The Barber of Birmingham: Foot Soldier of the Civil Rights Movement,' which aired on PBS and highlighted an individual's role in the movement.

What investigative series by WXYZ-TV in Detroit earned a Silver Baton in 2013?

WXYZ-TV in Detroit received a Silver Baton in 2013 for 'Wayne County Confidential,' an investigative series that likely exposed issues within local government or institutions.

What radio series on the DNA Files earned a Silver Baton in 2000?

SoundVision Productions, Berkeley, received a Silver Baton in 2000 for 'The DNA Files,' broadcast on NPR and hosted by John Hockenberry, which explored the complexities and implications of genetic science.

What reporting on the impeachment and trial of President Bill Clinton earned CNN a Silver Baton in 2000?

CNN and Candy Crowley received a Silver Baton in 2000 for their coverage of the impeachment and trial of President Bill Clinton, recognized for their comprehensive reporting on a major political event.

Alfred I. Dupont U2013columbia University Award Wiki: The Golden Baton: Honoring Excellence in Broadcast & Digital Journalism

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

What is the Award?

Pinnacle of Journalism

The Alfred I. duPont–Columbia University Award stands as a preeminent honor in journalism, specifically recognizing excellence in broadcast, radio, and digital reporting for public service. It is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious accolades in the field, often considered the broadcast equivalent of the Pulitzer Prize, which is also administered by Columbia University.

Institutional Stewardship

Established in 1942, the awards were initially overseen by O. W. Riegel, Curator and Head of the Department of Journalism and Communications at Washington and Lee University, until 1967. Since 1968, the esteemed Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism in New York City has taken on the administration, solidifying its status within the academic and professional journalistic landscape.

Mission and Impact

Beyond mere recognition, the duPont Awards are dedicated to fostering the highest journalistic standards. They aim to educate the public about the vital contributions news organizations and individual journalists make to their communities, championing journalism education and innovation, and cultivating a shared sense of purpose and excellence within the profession.

Award Snapshot

A quick overview of the Alfred I. duPont–Columbia University Award's key characteristics:

Attribute	Detail
Awarded for	The best in television, radio, and digital journalism
Location	North Carolina (initial administration), New York City (current administration)
Country	United States
Presented by	Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism
Website	dupont.org (opens in new tab)

Origins & Evolution

Founding Vision

The duPont-Columbia Awards were established by Jessie Ball duPont, a prominent philanthropist, in loving memory of her husband, Alfred I. du Pont. Her vision was to create an enduring legacy that would recognize and encourage excellence in broadcast journalism, a field rapidly gaining influence in the mid-20th century.

Expanding Horizons

While initially focused exclusively on broadcast journalism, reflecting the media landscape of its early years, the award demonstrated its adaptability and foresight by beginning to accept digital submissions in 2009. This crucial expansion acknowledged the evolving nature of news delivery and ensured the awards remained relevant in the digital age.

Esteemed Recognition

The duPont Awards consistently rank among the most prestigious recognition programs across all electronic media. They are frequently mentioned in the same breath as the George Foster Peabody Awards, underscoring their significant standing and influence in celebrating impactful and high-quality journalistic endeavors.

Award Criteria & Process

Eligibility Window

The rigorous selection process for the duPont-Columbia Awards considers programs that have aired in the United States within a specific annual cycle. This window typically spans from July 1 of one year to June 30 of the following year, ensuring a consistent and fair evaluation period for all submissions.

The Jury's Deliberation

A distinguished jury, composed of leading figures in journalism and academia, undertakes the critical task of selecting the award winners. Their meticulous review process focuses on identifying works that exemplify exceptional standards in reporting, storytelling, and public service, upholding the core values of the duPont legacy.

The Iconic Batons

Recipients of the duPont-Columbia Award are presented with uniquely designed batons in gold and silver, crafted by the renowned American architect Louis I. Kahn. The Gold Baton, a symbol of unparalleled achievement, is reserved exclusively for truly outstanding contributions to broadcast and digital journalism, signifying the highest echelon of excellence.

Illustrious Laureates

Early Pioneers (1942-1965)

The initial era of the duPont Awards, administered by Washington and Lee University, recognized foundational figures and stations in broadcast journalism, setting the benchmark for public service reporting.

A selection of notable recipients from the early period:

1942

Fulton Lewis Jr.
KGEI Radio, San Francisco

1943

Raymond Gram Swing
WLW Radio, Cincinnati
WMAZ Radio, Macon, Georgia

1947

Edward R. Murrow
WBBM Radio, Chicago
WFIL Radio, Philadelphia

1955

Howard K. Smith
WICC Radio, Bridgeport, Connecticut
WTIC Radio, Hartford, Connecticut

1965

Cecil Brown
KTWO-TV, Casper, Wyoming
WBBM-TV, Chicago
WCCO Radio, Minneapolis
WFBM-TV, Indianapolis, Indiana
WHCU Radio, Ithaca, New York
WRVR Radio, New York

Columbia Era Highlights (1969-Present)

Since 1968, under the stewardship of Columbia University, the awards have expanded to honor a broader spectrum of impactful journalism, including digital submissions from 2009 and groundbreaking documentaries.

Highlights from the Columbia University administered awards, showcasing the evolution of recognized journalism:

1969

Dr. Everett C. Parker
KNBC-TV, Los Angeles, California, "The Slow Guillotine"
KQED, San Francisco, for local coverage of the 1968 political campaigns
National Educational Television and Public Broadcast Laboratory, "Defense and Domestic Needs: The Contest for Tomorrow"

2003

Gold Baton: WGBH-TV, Boston, "Frontline," for a series of seven programs on PBS about the origin and impact of terrorism by Islamic militants
CNN en Español and Jorge Gestoso, "La Doble Desaparecida" (First foreign-language program)
HBO, "In Memorium: New York City, 9/11/01"
NPR, for coverage of 9/11 and the war in Afghanistan

2010

MediaStorm & Jonathan Torgovnik for "Intended Consequences" (First award for digital reporting)
CBS News & Katie Couric for "The Sarah Palin Interviews"
NPR, Michele Norris & Steve Inskeep for "The York Project: Race and the 2008 Vote"

2012

Danfung Dennis, Impact Partners, Roast Beef Productions, Sabotage Films, Thought Engine and Channel 4 BritDoc Foundation, Hell and Back Again (First theatrically released documentary film)
NBC News & Richard Engel, Coverage of the Arab Spring
WNYC & Ailsa Chang, "Alleged Illegal Searches by the NYPD"

2024

The Associated Press, PBS Frontline, 20 Days in Mariupol
Tony Plohetski & KVUE TV, The Austin American-Statesman, Accountability After Uvalde
PBS Frontline, Afghanistan Undercover (Ramita Navai, correspondent)

For a complete and exhaustive list of all award recipients, please refer to the official website of the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism, as noted in the award's documentation.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Alfred I. Dupont U2013columbia University Award" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about alfred_i._dupont_u2013columbia_university_award while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

user interface design

may 68

developing country

genus

References

The Nemours Papers: Series 3 of the duPont family papers, Special Collections, Washington and Lee University Special Collections and Archives, James G. Leyburn Library. Box-folder 26:44 R5 Alfred I. duPont Radio Awards

Pauline Frederick Papers, 1917â1990, Sophia Smith Collection, Smith College. Retrieved 2013-08-05.

Columbia News: December 17, 2007-

PBS, ABC News Win Multiple Honors at duPont-Columbia Awards - Variety

PBS And ABC News Lead The Honors At The 2024 DuPont Awards - Deadline

A full list of references for this article are available at the Alfred I. duPont–Columbia University Award Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional journalistic or academic advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for consulting official award guidelines, academic research, or professional journalistic standards. Always refer to primary sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific research or career guidance in journalism. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read on this website.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Golden Baton

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

What is the Award? ℹ️

🏆 Pinnacle of Journalism

🏛️ Institutional Stewardship

🎯 Mission and Impact

📊 Award Snapshot

Origins & Evolution 📜

🌱 Founding Vision

🌐 Expanding Horizons

🌟 Esteemed Recognition

Award Criteria & Process ⚖️

📅 Eligibility Window

🧐 The Jury's Deliberation

✨ The Iconic Batons

Illustrious Laureates 🌟

📜 Early Pioneers (1942-1965)

1942

1943

1947

1955

1965

🏛️ Columbia Era Highlights (1969-Present)

1969

2003

2010

2012

2024

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

What is the Award?

Pinnacle of Journalism

Institutional Stewardship

Mission and Impact

Award Snapshot

Origins & Evolution

Founding Vision

Expanding Horizons

Esteemed Recognition

Award Criteria & Process

Eligibility Window

The Jury's Deliberation

The Iconic Batons

Illustrious Laureates

Early Pioneers (1942-1965)

Columbia Era Highlights (1969-Present)

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice