Jul 27 2009
Read Any Good News Stories Lately?
Civil engineering is everywhere – from the switch you flip to turn on the light in the morning to the roads you use to get home at the end of the day. Given the renewed interest in infrastructure lately, it’s no surprise that issues such as traffic congestion and new construction make the headlines each and every day. When journalists are insightful in their reporting, citizens can play a more informed role in the infrastructure debate that shapes their communities.
Many of you are probably aware of ASCE’s Excellence in Journalism Award. The award recognizes outstanding news stories that enhance public understanding of the role and impact of civil engineers and civil engineering in designing solutions for clean water, transportation, the environment and other public works projects. Journalists and producers from English-language, general interest regional and national newspapers, radio and television stations, magazines, and electronic and Web-based news outlets are all eligible.
So that brings me back to my original question – have you read any good news stories lately? Civil engineering-related news stories, in particular. Consider nominating them for the Excellence in Journalism Award! Stories eligible for the 2010 award must have appeared between May 1, 2008 and Oct. 31, 2009. Entries must be postmarked by Dec. 1, 2009, but it’s not too early to start keeping your eyes open for those stories worth nominating! (You can find more information on criteria and submission guidelines here.)
ASCE Sections and Branches are encouraged to conduct a local Excellence in Journalism Award competition along the lines of the national competition and nominate their local winner for the national competition. This is also a great opportunity to start getting to know some of your local reporters.
Click here to check out the 2008 Excellence in Journalism Award winners, Veronica Castelo and Jenna Hiller of News 8 Austin for their series of stories on Texas dams. (Also the winners of the Texas Section’s Excellence in Journalism Award!)
Send me an email if you have any questions and let’s see some of those stories! Feel free to link to some of the stories you’ve seen lately in the comments area below.
Karen Albers
Manager, State Public Relations