The Bart Richards Award for Media Criticism recognizes outstanding contributions to the analysis and critique of news media coverage of significant topics. The award honors works such as articles, books, academic research, and electronic or online media reports that provide constructive and responsible evaluations of journalism practices. In 2025, the award will be presented for the first time on Penn State’s campus.

Eligible entries must include work published or completed in the 2024 calendar year. Submissions are due by January 31, 2025, and may include individual or cumulative work from newspapers, periodicals, broadcast/cable outlets, or online media. Both individuals and organizations are eligible. Each submission must include a descriptive letter outlining the work’s nature and impact, along with published or aired materials. Links to online content are also acceptable. For cumulative work, representative examples should be provided.

The winner will receive a $2,500 honorarium and is expected to attend the September 2025 award ceremony at Penn State, where they will speak on the honored subject. Judging is conducted by professionals from journalism and academia, emphasizing contributions that responsibly critique and improve journalism practices.

Established in 1994 at the National Press Club, the Bart Richards Award is one of the few national awards dedicated to critically evaluating the media. Submissions can be made online, and questions may be directed to Steve Sampsell, Director of Strategic Communications at Penn State’s Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications.