The NewEnglander Earns Top Honors at Regional Journalism Awards

New England College’s student-run newspaper, The NewEnglander, has achieved significant recognition by securing first place in the Opinion Page category at the 2024 New England Better Newspaper Competition. This prestigious award, presented by the New England Newspaper & Press Association (NENPA), highlights the exceptional work and dedication of NEC’s student journalists.

The accolade was announced during NENPA’s annual awards banquet held on March 29, 2025, in Portland, Maine. The event celebrates excellence in journalism across the region, and The NewEnglander stood out among numerous collegiate publications for its insightful and impactful opinion pieces.

The winning Opinion piece, “NewEnglander staff supports student press freedom,” expressed support of student-journalists at another institution who were arrested during a campus protest. The author of the piece took a strong position while explaining why freedom of the press is so important.

“I am so proud of NEC’s student journalists and their dedication to covering the news of our immediate community and the greater world,” stated Colleen McElveen, Assistant Professor of Communications and Faculty Advisor for The NewEnglander. “One of the things I love about NEC is the College’s belief in giving students opportunities to live what they learn, and The NewEnglander is a perfect example of what that looks like for our students.”

The NewEnglander serves as a vital platform for student voices at NEC, offering news, opinions, and creative content that resonate with the college community. This recognition underscores the publication’s commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence.

For more information and to read the award-winning content, visit The NewEnglander‘s website at the-new-englander.com.

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