Each year, the Cronkite School presents a leading journalist with the Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism, one of journalism’s most prestigious honors. Walter Cronkite himself presented the first award in 1984, and winners join the ranks of Wolf Blitzer, David Muir, Anderson Cooper, Robin Roberts, Lester Holt, Judy Woodruff, Gwen Ifill, Tom Brokaw, Al Michaels and Katharine Graham.
Known as one of the most anticipated media events in Phoenix, the Cronkite Award luncheon draws leaders from the worlds of media, business and education to celebrate journalism’s very best and support student success.
Celebrate Jorge Ramos and María Elena Salinas
The Cronkite School is proud to present the 42nd Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism to Jorge Ramos and María Elena Salinas. Ramos and Salinas co-anchored Noticiero Univision, Univision’s Spanish-language newscast, for nearly three decades. After leaving the network, both embarked on new and ambitious opportunities as independent journalists. They are celebrated for their influential role in U.S. Spanish-language journalism, empowering Hispanic communities through their reporting and civic engagement initiatives.
The Cronkite Award Luncheon honoring Jorge Ramos and María Elena Salinas
Feb. 24, 2026, 11:30 a.m.
Sheraton Phoenix Downtown
Sponsorship package are available; contact Emilee Johnson, Development Officer or Tim Richter, Senior Director of Development
Your Impact
Thank you to our sponsors! Your support of the Cronkite Award nurtures the next generation of journalism and media leaders. Each year, more than 70 media outlets, communication agencies and individual industry leaders sponsor the Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism, bringing meaningful awareness and support to student success initiatives like these:
