They Covered Disasters and Won Big: Public Media's Shocking Sweep at the 2025 Murrow Awards

In a world saturated with endless headlines and hot takes, one group of journalists just delivered a masterclass in what real reporting looks like—and their victory is staggering. While others chased trends, public media outlets were on the ground for America's biggest stories of 2024, and they just swept one of the nation's most prestigious journalism awards for it.

The results are in for the 2025 national Edward R. Murrow Awards, and it was a near-total takeover. In a stunning display of journalistic excellence, public media organizations walked away with an incredible 39 awards. The announcement, made last week by the Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA), honors the absolute pinnacle of broadcast and digital journalism.

Reporting from the Heart of the Story

So, what does it take to win this big? It means being there when it matters most. The awards celebrated the powerful, in-depth coverage that defined the year's most harrowing moments.

• Marketplace was recognized for its relentless and insightful reporting on the economic and human fallout from the tragic Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore.
• Blue Ridge Public Radio earned top accolades for its crucial, on-the-ground coverage as Hurricane Helene devastated communities across Western North Carolina.

This wasn't just about reporting the news; it was about providing a vital public service, bringing clarity, context, and humanity to moments of chaos. The wins underscore public media's essential role in local, regional, and national conversations.

A Landslide Victory in Radio

Leading the charge were some of the most trusted names in the industry. NPR and Boston's powerhouse station WBUR each secured an impressive three awards, showcasing a consistent level of quality that set the standard for the competition.

Their dominance was most profoundly felt in the radio categories, where they left little room for anyone else. Public radio outlets claimed an astonishing 13 out of 16 awards across both large and small market radio divisions. They continued their winning streak in the network radio category, nabbing another six awards. This wasn't just a win; it was a statement about who sets the bar for audio journalism.

This incredible performance is no fluke. It's the latest chapter in a long history of excellence, as public radio stations, often supported by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, have historically set the gold standard at the Murrow Awards. This year's sweep reaffirms a crucial truth: in-depth, community-focused journalism is not only surviving but thriving.