The Journal Managing Editor Toni Milbourne and the Shepherdstown Chronicle Editor Tabitha Johnston with their awards from the West Virginia Press Association. Photo by Ainsley Hall

CHARLESTON — The Journal and the Shepherdstown Chronicle were recognized at the 2025 West Virginia Press Association’s annual convention after receiving first- and second-place awards for General Excellence in Divisions II and IV respectively. The convention took place in Charleston where newspaper staffers from all over the state gathered to celebrate and recognize journalists’ dedication to their craft.

This year both The Journal and the Shepherdstown Chronicle had a successful year. In addition to earning the award for General Excellence, The Journal brought home 26 individual awards. The Chronicle also received 15 awards in Division IV.

“We are thrilled to once again be recognized by the West Virginia Press Association for our accomplishments in 2024,” said The Shepherdstown Chronicle Editor Tabitha Johnston. “Since 1991, we have faithfully served the town of Shepherdstown, providing our readers with the most up-to-date news about the goings-on in their vibrant, historic town. We look forward to continuing with this spirit of service to Shepherdstown, for many years to come.”

The Journal’s Managing Editor Toni Milbourne attended the conference to accept on behalf of both papers.

“It is always an honor to be recognized at the West Virginia Press Awards, and it was even more so this year to receive first place in our circulation division,” Milbourne said. “I am extremely proud of the hard work done by our Journal staff that led to the receipt of 26 individual awards as well as the first-place designation.”

Shepherdstown Chronicle awards included:

1st place–Tabitha Johnston, best in-depth or investigative reporting

1st place–Tabitha Johnston, best business economic or labor reporting

1st place–Donna Joy, best news columnist

1st place–Bob Madison, best sports event reporting

1st place–Tabitha Johnston, reporting generated from public notice

2nd place–General Excellence

2nd place–Bob Madison, best sports columnist

2nd place–Tabitha Johnston, news photography

2nd place–David Pennock, sports photography

2nd place–Tabitha Johnston, David Pennock, photo essay

2nd place–Tabitha Johnston, best headline writing

2nd place–Tabitha Johnston, service to the community

3rd place–Tabitha Johston, best legal affairs reporting

3rd place–John Doyle, best news columnist

3rd place–Donna Joy, best lifestyle columnist

3rd place–David Pennock, photo essay

Other first place winners included the Charleston Gazette-Mail in Division I, The Times Record & Roane County Reporter in Division III and the Doddridge Independent in Division IV. The WVPA also recognized Interim Executive Director Doug Skaff, Jr. following his passing this last June.