The NewEnglander Wins in Two Categories at the 2026 NENPA Awards

New England College’s student-run newspaper, The NewEnglander, has achieved significant recognition by securing first place in the Headline Writing category, awarded to student-journalist Soob Soobitsky, and second place in the Multimedia Reporting category, awarded to student-journalist Lauren Hall. These prestigious awards presented by the New England Newspaper & Press Association (NENPA) highlight the exceptional work and dedication of NEC’s student-journalists.

The accolade was announced during NENPA’s annual awards banquet held on March 14, 2026, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The event celebrates excellence in journalism across the region, and The NewEnglander stood out among numerous collegiate publications for its insightful and impactful work.

Above from left: Professor Colleen McElveen and students Soob Soobitsky and Lauren Hall attend the 2026 New England Newspaper & Press Association awards on March 14.

The winning headline “It’s sap season at Henniker’s Intervale Pancake House” preceded Soobitsky’s article featuring the owners of the Intervale Pancake House during the 2025 maple sugaring season. Read the article.

Hall’s winning multimedia article “NEC legal expert explains Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ federal indictment” explained the complicated legal process during the 2025 Sean “Diddy” Combs trial. Hall’s article and timeline simplified the trial’s facts for The NewEnglander’s readers. Read the article.

“These awards are a testament to the dedication and talent of The NewEnglander’s student-reporters. Their work reflects a strong commitment to truth, balance, and creativity,” stated Colleen McElveen, Assistant Professor of Communications and Faculty Advisor for The NewEnglander. “With the guidance of Lauren and Soob, the team continues to produce engaging, meaningful journalism. The NewEnglander provides an invaluable opportunity for NEC students to put their skills into practice.”

The NewEnglander serves as a vital platform for student voices at NEC, offering news, opinions, and creative content that resonate with the college community. This recognition underscores the publication’s commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence.

For more information and to read the award-winning content, visit The NewEnglander‘s website.

Learn More
Apply to NEC
Explore Academic Degree Programs
Read More NEC News