CJF and Michener Awards Foundation collaborate on new submission process for top awards

TORONTO, Jan. 10, 2019 /CNW/ - News organizations applying for two of Canada's top journalism awards will find it easier to make online submissions using a new common entry form, thanks to a collaboration between The Canadian Journalism Foundation (CJF) and the Michener Awards Foundation.

The Michener Award recognizes public service journalism, while the CJF Jackman Award for Excellence in Journalism recognizes news organizations that embody exemplary journalism. Both awards will open January 16 with a deadline of February 22.

"The Michener Foundation is pleased to be entering into this new arrangement with the Canadian Journalism Foundation," says Margo Goodhand, chief judge for the Michener Award.
"We know that many newsrooms apply to both the Michener Award, Canada's top honour for public service journalism, and the prestigious CJF Jackman Award for Excellence in Journalism. The new common entry form will make it simpler and easier for newsrooms to apply to one or both awards at the same time."

Under the new arrangement, the CJF will be responsible for online submissions and marketing support for the Michener Award.

The award presentations will remain the same. Following the announcement of a shortlist in both small and large media categories in April, the winner of the CJF Jackman Award for Excellence in Journalism will be announced at the annual CJF Awards, on June 13 at the Fairmont Royal York in Toronto. (Early-bird rates for tickets and tables are available until February 28.)

The Michener Award finalists will also be announced in April, followed by a ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa, typically held in June, hosted by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada. 

Two Michener-Deacon Fellowships for investigative reporting — valued at $40,000 plus $5,000 in accountable expenses — will also be awarded at this ceremony. This is the first year the fellowships are open to news organizations as well as qualified individual journalists. The deadline for applications for the Michener-Deacon Fellowships is February 22.

Founded in 1970 by Roland Michener, then governor general, the Michener Award honours excellence in public service journalism and is open to all Canadian media. 

About The Canadian Journalism Foundation
Established in 1990, The Canadian Journalism Foundation promotes, celebrates and facilitates excellence in journalism. The foundation runs a prestigious annual awards and fellowships program featuring an industry gala where news leaders, journalists and corporate Canada gather to celebrate outstanding journalistic achievement and the value of professional journalism. Through monthly J-Talks, a public speakers' series, the CJF facilitates dialogue among journalists, business people, academics and students about the role of the media in Canadian society and the ongoing challenges for media in the digital era. The foundation also fosters opportunities for journalism education, training and research.

About the Michener Awards Foundation
The Michener Awards Foundation honours, celebrates and promotes excellence in Canadian public service journalism. The Michener Award was established in 1970 by the late Right Honourable Roland Michener, Governor General of Canada from 1967 to 1974.

SOURCE Canadian Journalism Foundation

For further information: Natalie Turvey, President and Executive Director, The Canadian Journalism Foundation, [e-mail]; Margo Goodhand, Chief Judge, The Michener Awards Foundation, [e-mail]

Related Links

http://www.cjf-fjc.ca