News Summary
The SPJ Florida chapter has recognized OutSFL and OutFAU at the Sunshine State Awards Ceremony. OutFAU received seven awards, including first-place honors in Opinion Column and LGBTQ+ Coverage for Mary Rasura. The publication also excelled in page design, while OutSFL’s John Hayden earned a finalist spot in Small Town & Rural Reporting. Notably, the Body Issue featured powerful narratives and won multiple awards, emphasizing the importance of student voices in journalism.
Florida – The SPJ Florida chapter announced multiple award wins for OutSFL and OutFAU at the 2025 Sunshine State Awards Ceremony held on September 6, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale. This annual event recognizes the best journalism from across the state and showcases excellence in various reporting categories.
OutFAU, the student publication from Florida Atlantic University operated by OutSFL, received seven awards in total, highlighting its dedication to student journalism. Among the stands out was Mary Rasura, who clinched first-place awards in both the Opinion Column and LGBTQ+ Coverage categories, reflecting a commitment to diverse and impactful reporting on critical social issues.
Additionally, Lewis De Berry earned top honors in the Inside Page Design category, further demonstrating OutFAU’s creative and engaging presentation of news. The publication also received finalist recognition in categories such as Special Issue, Review, Serious Feature, and Front Page Design.
John Hayden, a reporter from OutSFL, was recognized as a finalist in the Small Town & Rural Reporting category for his thorough coverage of the City of Wilton Manors. His reporting focused on the town’s budget challenges and the future of its police department, providing insight into local governance issues that affect the community.
A significant highlight of the awards was OutFAU’s work related to the Body Issue, which won four awards. This special edition featured nearly nude photographs of students alongside narratives addressing body relationships, demonstrating the publication’s bold approach to contemporary issues. The initiative was well-received, and the awards underscore the significant impact of OutFAU’s efforts and creativity.
Acknowledgment of Excellence
The recognition from the Sunshine State Awards emphasizes the strong commitment to journalism excellence exhibited by the individuals involved. Jason Parsley, Publisher of OutSFL, commended the winners for their achievements, particularly noting the significance of the Body Issue and the effort behind showcasing student stories and perspectives.
The Importance of Recognition
The Sunshine State Awards are considered prestigious within Florida’s journalism community, highlighting the achievements of various media organizations and journalists dedicated to delivering quality news. Held annually, the ceremony serves as a platform for honoring those who exhibit excellence in reporting, design, and various other journalistic pursuits.
Background Context of OutSFL and OutFAU
OutSFL operates as a key media outlet in Florida, focusing on community engagement through local reporting and advocacy. OutFAU, as a student-driven publication, provides a voice for students at Florida Atlantic University, tackling topics of relevance to the student body and the broader community. By participating in the Sunshine State Awards, both organizations continue to showcase their commitment to effective and impactful journalism.
The recognition received at the Sunshine State Awards not only enhances the reputation of OutSFL and OutFAU but also encourages continued excellence in future reporting endeavors. As these organizations continue to grow and evolve, their contributions to journalism remain vital to informing and engaging the public on important issues.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- OutSFL and OutFAU Earn Sunshine State Awards
- SPJ’s Sunshine State Awards Journalism Competition Announces 2025 Honors
- Florida State Student Athletes Celebrated at Golden Nole Awards Ceremony
- Governor Ron DeSantis Posthumously Awards Medal of Freedom to Five Florida Icons
- Wikipedia: Journalism
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
