Honoring excellence in journalism
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 Tony Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon
The Cronkite School is proud to present the 43rd Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism to Tony Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon. Kornheiser and Wilbon have co-hosted ESPN’s “Pardon the Interruption” since it debuted 25 years ago – appearing in more than 3,000 episodes to date. Together, they run down the day’s sports hot topics and key events in a fast-paced format. “PTI” is one of the longest-running daily shows in sports media history and ESPN’s most-viewed daily studio program. The show has received three Sports Emmy Awards.
The ESPN hosts first met at The Washington Post. Kornheiser began working there in 1979, where he wrote for the paper and later became a sports columnist. After spending two summers interning, Wilbon became a sports reporter at The Washington Post in 1980 and later transitioned into a sports columnist.
The Cronkite Award Luncheon honoring Tony Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon
Feb. 16, 2027, 11:30 a.m.
Sheraton Phoenix Downtown
Sponsorship package are available. Contact Heather Kivatinos, 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:
