Archdiocese of Newark Wins National Awards at 2025 Catholic Media Conference
The Archdiocese of Newark is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of staff members, teams, and contributors who were recognized with top honors on June 27 at the 2025 Catholic Media Awards in Phoenix, Arizona, presented by the Catholic Media Association. The prestigious awards honor excellence in journalism, video production, and storytelling across Catholic media nationwide.
Among the five national awards received, the Archdiocese took home First Place for Best Diocesan Video Fundraising Appeal for its compelling “2024 Archdiocese of Newark Annual Appeal” video. The piece was hailed by judges as “far and away the best produced in the category,” commended for being “well executed,” clearly illustrating how donor support is used, and creatively featuring real people in the places where ministry happens.
In another recognition of its visual storytelling, the Annual Appeal video also earned Second Place in Best Video: Explainer, Television Stations and Film Companies, a collaborative effort between Lux Lab Production House and Archdiocesan staff. Judges praised the piece for its “excellent videography and editing combined with storytelling that is focused and clear.”
Print awards
The Archdiocese also shined in print journalism. John Touhey, currently Managing Editor and News Content Producer at Jersey Catholic, won First Place for Best Personality Profile in a National Newspaper or Wire Service for his article, “Aleteia Speaks With Tom Monaghan About His Life and Faith,” originally published by Aleteia. The profile offered readers a rich and personal portrait of Monaghan’s faith journey.
Sean Quinn, Public Relations Manager, earned Second Place for Best Reporting on a Special Age-Group: Children and Teens Younger than 18 for his story “Students Learn From Veterans, Help Those in Need Through Unique Service Club.” The piece highlighted students engaging in transformative service through a veterans’ club, showcasing intergenerational learning and faith in action.
Quinn was also awarded an Honorable Mention for Best Reporting on Priesthood, Religious Life or Diaconate (One-Shot) for his moving article “Soldier-turned-priest Uses Near-death Military Experiences to Inspire Faith in Others.” The story shared the remarkable journey of a veteran whose path to priesthood was shaped by his experiences on the battlefield, ultimately inspiring others through his witness of faith.
“We are incredibly proud of the work our teams and partners have produced to tell the powerful stories of faith, service, and community within the Archdiocese of Newark,” said Maria Margiotta, Executive Director of the Office of Communications. “These national recognitions are a testament to the creativity, dedication, and mission-driven focus that guide all of our communications efforts. We’re honored to share the Gospel through compelling storytelling that resonates with people of all ages.”
Featured image: A shot from the Archdiocese of Newark’s 2024 Annual Appeal video. (Photo by Archdiocese of Newark)
