Mayor Walsh presented with SPJ award

Journalism faculty and students were among those who gathered at the Eagle Room in City Hall on the afternoon of September 25 for a presentation of the Society of Professional Journalists’ National Historic Site in Journalism award to Boston Mayor Marty Walsh. The award honors the City of Boston’s contributions to the field of journalism.

President Pelton addressed attendees, recognizing Journalism Professor Manny Paraschos’s role in nominating the City of Boston to be honored as part of the SPJ’s Historic Sites Program. He also thanked the Mayor for a warm reception at City Hall for Emerson and SPJ to jointly present the award. 

Professor Paraschos and Mayor Walsh read the SJP Historic Site in Journalism plaque. Paraschos nominated the city for the award and is also author of The Boston Journalism Trail.  Photo credit: Nick Eaton ’17

Danielle McLean, the New England Chapter President of the SPJ, and President Pelton unveiled the 50 lb. bronze plaque, which is inscribed with highlights recognizing Boston as the “Birthplace of American Journalism,” including publication of the first American newspaper (Publick Occurrences, 1690) and headquarters for the country’s most important abolitionist newspaper (The Liberator, 1831).

Mayor Walsh graciously and enthusiastically accepted the award, acknowledging Boston’s history in journalism and ensuring that the plaque would be proudly displayed at City Hall.

Danielle McClean, Mayor Walsh, President Pelton. Photo credit: Isabel Leon. 

(left to right) Journalism faculty members: Melinda Robins, Manny Paraschos, Tim Riley, Catherine D’Ignazio, Paul Niwa.