Aug. 25, 2025 – The National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) is proud to announce the return of the annual Excelencia Awards, celebrating excellence across Latino journalism while investing in the next generation. This year’s event will take place Friday, November 7, 2025 in New York.
The Excelencia Awards honor individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and storytelling advance Latino journalists and communities. Proceeds from the evening support NAHJ’s NextGen programs, including scholarships, mentorship, internships, and training to build a stronger pipeline of Latino talent in newsrooms nationwide.
“Last year’s Excelencia Awards were a tremendous success, showcasing the power and impact of Latino journalists and storytellers across the country. We are proud to continue this celebration in New York, honoring excellence in our community and investing in the next generation who will carry this mission forward,” said NAHJ President Dunia Elvir.
This year’s award categories include:
- National Latina Journalist of the Year: Recognizing a Latina journalist for outstanding contributions to the field.
- National Student of the Year: Celebrating a high school or college student excelling in journalism and leadership.
- Ñ Legacy Award: Honoring a journalist with over 10 years of experience who has significantly contributed to the Hispanic community.
- Corporate Impact Award: Recognizing a corporation or organization that has made a significant and lasting contribution to journalism by supporting newsroom sustainability and strengthening community.
- Volunteer of the Year: This award honors an individual whose behind-the-scenes support has made a meaningful difference—uplifting journalists, empowering truth-tellers, and strengthening the role of a free press in our communities.
Nominations are open to both NAHJ members and non-members.
Last year, NAHJ proudly recognized some of the most inspiring voices in journalism and media. CBS News’ 60 Minutes correspondent Cecilia Vega was named National Latina Journalist of the Year, while Isabella Ramírez, who guided the Columbia Spectator through a tumultuous year, received National Student of the Year.
The Ñ Legacy Award honored longtime media leader Sylvia Rosabal for her decades of impact. NBCUniversal News Group was celebrated with the Corporate Diversity Award for its commitment to advancing Latino representation, and Blanca Rios of ABC 7 Chicago was recognized with the Volunteer Award for her dedication to NAHJ and the community.
Nominations for the Excelencia Awards are open until September 28, 2025 and honorees will be celebrated during the awards event on November 7, 2025. Tickets to attend are available for purchase now. NAHJ encourages submissions of individuals and organizations who exemplify excellence and leadership in the Hispanic/Latino community. By attending the event, participants will not only honor the contributions of these leaders but also play a crucial role in supporting the next generation of Hispanic journalists.
For more information or to submit nominations, please visit nahj.org/excelencia/ or contact us.
Press contact: Andrew Sherry, asherry@nahj.org, (305) 954-7571
###
About NAHJ
The National Association of Hispanic Journalists is an educational and charitable association dedicated to the recognition and professional advancement of Hispanic students, professionals, and educators in the field of journalism. NAHJ focuses heavily on advocacy, addressing injustices and political issues that affect Latino journalists throughout the country, while also supporting a growing network of members and chapters. For more information please avisit NAHJ.org or follow us on X @NAHJ.