Eugene S. Pulliam First Amendment Award

The Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) Foundation’s Eugene S. Pulliam First Amendment Award to honor individuals, groups, or organizations that have upheld the values of the First Amendment, with a special emphasis on freedom of the press.

About the Award

  • Presented annually at the SPJ National Convention.
  • Honoree(s) receive:
    • $10,000 cash prize.
    • Engraved crystal award.
    • Transportation support (airfare + two-night hotel stay).

  • Established in memory of Eugene S. Pulliam, publisher and champion of First Amendment rights.

Eligibility

  • Open to individuals, groups, or organizations in the U.S. or its territories.
  • Nominees may be journalists or non-journalists (e.g., public officials, legal professionals, educators, librarians, scholars, students, or citizens).
  • Recognizes work completed within the previous calendar year.
  • Lifetime achievement nominations are also accepted.

Award Focus

  • Highlighting the importance of a free press and First Amendment rights.
  • Recognizing initiatives, advocacy, or actions that strengthen press freedom and public understanding of constitutional protections.

Opportunity offered by:

Society of Professional Journalists

The Society of Professional Journalists is the nation’s most broad-based journalism organization, dedicated to encouraging the free practice of journalism and stimulating high standards of ethical behavior. Founded in 1909…
Online application form
Contact for application information
Opportunity type

Award

Location(s) where available

United States (all)

Maximum grant amount

$10000

Areas of focus

First Amendment
Freedom of the Press

Applications accepted starting:
January 1, 2026
Application deadline:
April 20, 2026
This is a recurring opportunity