NAHJ opens nominations for 2026 Excelencia Awards

The National Association of Hispanic Journalists is accepting nominations for its third annual Excelencia Awards Gala, set for Nov. 17, 2026, in New York City. The awards spotlight journalists, educators, communicators and organizations advancing Latino representation and newsroom opportunities.

Why it matters: - The Excelencia Awards are NAHJ’s premier fundraising event. - Proceeds support NAHJ scholarships, internships, mentorship programs, leadership development and hands-on training for the next generation of Latino journalists. - NAHJ says newsrooms become stronger, more accurate and more representative when they reflect the communities they serve.

What happened: - The National Association of Hispanic Journalists opened nominations for the 2026 Excelencia Awards Gala. - The gala is scheduled for Nov. 17, 2026, at 583 Park Avenue in New York City. - NAHJ is accepting nominations across multiple categories that recognize journalism, education, communications and corporate support.

The details: - National Journalist of the Year honors a journalist whose work reflects high standards of integrity and storytelling, especially in giving voice to Latino communities. - National Student of the Year recognizes a high school or college student showing talent, leadership and commitment to journalism through academics, campus media or other work. - Ñ Legacy Award honors an individual with more than 10 years of experience who has been a trailblazer for the Hispanic community through journalism. - Excellence in PR & Communications recognizes a communications professional whose work has elevated coverage and engagement around Latino communities and issues. - Spirit of NAHJ Award honors an active NAHJ member for committee service and contributions to the organization’s growth. - National Academic of the Year recognizes an educator for excellence in journalism teaching and mentorship while advancing understanding of Latino communities and issues. - Corporate Impact Award goes to a corporation or organization whose support for journalism fosters innovation, newsroom sustainability and opportunities for the next generation. - The nomination deadline is Aug. 12, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET. - Ticket and sponsorship information is available at the Excelencia Awards page. - NAHJ said the event celebrates press freedom, journalistic excellence and the power of diverse voices in America’s newsrooms.

Between the lines: - The awards function as both recognition and fundraising, tying NAHJ’s public celebration of Latino media leaders to direct support for pipeline programs. - The category mix shows NAHJ is trying to honor people at multiple career stages, plus institutions that influence newsroom culture and resources. - Yaneth Guillén-Díaz, NAHJ’s executive director, said the awards are meant to celebrate people and organizations helping shape a stronger, more inclusive future for the profession.

What’s next: - NAHJ will review nominations ahead of the November gala. - The organization is expected to announce honorees closer to the event date. - Past honorees include Jim Acosta, Mireya Villarreal, Charo Henríquez, Brunella Tipismana, JPMorganChase, Sylvia Rosabal, Cecilia Vega, Isabella Ramirez and NBCUniversal News Group.

The bottom line: - NAHJ is using the 2026 Excelencia Awards to spotlight Latino journalism leadership while raising money for the next generation of media professionals.