Awards & Recognition
The U-High Midway has received 27 Crown Awards: 18 Gold and 9 Silver.
2024 Gold Crown, High School Hybrid News (print and digital)
2023 Gold Crown, High School Hybrid News (print and digital)
2022 Silver Crown, High School Hybrid News (print and digital)
2021 Silver Crown, High School Hybrid News (print and digital)
2020 Silver Crown, High School Print Newspaper
2019 Gold Crown, High School Print Newspaper
2018 Gold Crown, High School Print Newspaper
2011 Silver Crown, High School Print Newspaper
2010 Silver Crown, High School Print Newspaper
2009 Silver Crown, High School Print Newspaper
2006 Gold Crown, High School Print Newspaper
2004 Gold Crown, High School Print Newspaper
2003 Gold Crown, High School Print Newspaper
2002 Gold Crown, High School Print Newspaper
2000 Silver Crown, High School Print Newspaper
1999 Gold Crown, High School Print Newspaper
1996 Silver Crown, High School Print Newspaper
1993 Gold Crown, High School Print Newspaper
1992 Gold Crown, High School Print Newspaper
1991 Gold Crown, High School Print Newspaper
1990 Gold Crown, High School Print Newspaper
1989 Silver Crown, High School Print Newspaper
1988 Gold Crown, High School Print Newspaper
1987 Gold Crown, High School Print Newspaper
1986 Gold Crown, High School Print Newspaper
1985 Gold Crown, High School Print Newspaper
1984 Gold Crown, High School Print Newspaper
1975 Trendsetter Award, High School Print Newspaper
2024 Digital (work from October 2022 to October 2023)
Gabriel Issa, first place, single feature photograph, “Sprinting to success: Poppy Beiser”
Bryce Light, first place, single spot news photograph, “U-High celebrates community spirit in annual Homecoming assembly” (Photo 4: Teacher Matt Bonges)
Audrey Park, first place, sidebar writing, “Affirmative Apprehension — Expert input: Law professor explains case”
Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, first place, sports news, “UChicago economics study tests baseball team”
Eliza Dearing, second place, art/illustration: hand-drawn, “Affirmative Apprehension”
Kaden Moubayed, second place, single spot news photograph, “2023 Graduation” (Photo 11: Jason & Sydney Tyler embrace)
Jaya Alenghat, certificate of merit, sports features, “Muslim student athletes navigate fasting during Ramadan while maintaining physical endurance”
Louis Auxenfans, certificate of merit, podcast, “A rite of passage: Seniors reflect on first voting experience,”
Clare McRoberts, certificate of merit, personal opinion: off-campus issues, “It’s time to end legacy admissions”
Sahana Unni, certificate of merit, news feature, “Dazzling drag city”
2024 Print Newspaper (work from June 2022 to June 2023)
Sahana Unni, first place, personal opinion: on-campus issues, “New auditorium name at odds with values”
Peter Cox, first place, single-subject news or feature package, single-page design (Page 4)
Gabriel Issa, second place, single feature photograph, “Sprinting to success: Poppy Beiser”
Zara Siddique and Sahana Unni, second place, photo layout: full page (Page 3)
Dalin Dohrn, third place, computer-generated art/illustration, “Rethinking therapy”
Staff (William Tan, Patrice Graham, Gabriel Issa, Matthew McGehee, Kaden Moubayed, Matt Petres), certificate of merit, photo story, “Photo Gallery: Raw reactions”
Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, certificate of merit, news page design (Page 2)
2023 Digital (work from October 2021 to October 2022)
Single spot news photograph, first place, Matt Petres
Sports commentary, second place, Meena Lee
Podcast, third place, Audrey Matei & Téa Tamburo
Photo slideshow, certificate of merit, Andrew Burke-Stevenson
Personal opinion: off-campus issues, certificate of merit, Amon Gray
Podcast, certificate of merit, Caroline Hohner
Personality profile, certificate of merit, William Tan
2023 Print Newspaper (work from June 2021 to June 2022)
Briefs writing, first place, Staff (Amy Ren, Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Chloe Ma, Chloë Alexander, Joaquin Figueroa, Louis Auxenfans)
Op-ed/news analysis page design, third place, Anathea Carrigan
Photo layout: full page, third place, Meena Lee
Single-subject news/feature page design, third place, An Ngo
Single spot news photograph, third place, Matt Petres
Personality profile, third place, William Tan
News feature, certificate of merit, Louis Auxenfans
Sports commentary, certificate of merit, Meena Lee
Page one design, certificate of merit, Adriana Nehme
Cultural feature, certificate of merit, Sahana Unni
2022 Digital (work from October 2020 to October 2021)
Sidebar writing, first place, Audrey Park, “Misinformation solutions rely on regulation, media literacy”
Secondary coverage (follow-up reporting), certificate of merit, Nicky Edwards-Levin, “Parents protest in-person delays despite updates from administration”
Personal opinion: off-campus issues, certificate of merit, Caroline Hohner, “Social media companies should be held liable for harm their platforms can cause”
First-person experience, certificate of merit, Téa Tamburo, “Inclusion at Lab must mean more than a single identifier”
Single spot news photo, certificate of merit, Andrew Burke-Stevenson, “Faculty face off in Homecoming arm wrestling tournament” (Photo 1)
Photo slideshow, third place, Peter Pu, Elliott Taylor, Andrew Burke-Stevenson, “Members of Class of 2021 graduate on Jackman Field”
Photo slideshow, certificate of merit, Malcolm Taylor, Andrew Burke-Stevenson, Matt Petres, Chloe Ma, Henry Benton, and Patrice Graham, “Photo gallery: Faculty face off in Homecoming arm wrestling tournament”
Podcast, certificate of merit, Ella Beiser, “One year of distance”
2021 Print Newspaper (work from June 2020 to June 2021)
Headline writing, first place, Staff
Page one design, second place, Amanda Cassel, March 12, 2021
News writing, third place, Nicky Edwards-Levin, “To maintain equity, teachers go extra mile”
Editorial page design, third place, Ryan Clark, June 3 (Page 4)
Entertainment review, certificate of merit, Caroline Hohner, “Show entertains, provokes political introspection”
2021 Digital (work from October 2019 to October 2020)
Breaking news, first place, Peter Pu, “Lab community protests police brutality, racism throughout Chicago”
2020 Print Newspaper (work from June 2019 to June 2020)
Briefs writing, first place, Staff, “News in Brief, Nov. 7, 2019”
News writing, second place, Ella Beiser, “To Protest, Dancers Must Sit”
Sports news, second place, Ella Beiser, Nicky Edwards-Levin and Christian Gluth, “First Time for First Place”
Single sports photograph, third place, Maria Shaughnessy, “Undefeated and Close-Knit”
2019 Digital and Yearbook (work from October 2018 to October 2019)
First-person experience | Third Place | Mira Costello, “It’s OK Not to Know How to Help with an Eating Disorder”
Art/illustration: hand-drawn | First Place | Risa Cohen, for “Sled the City”
Art/illustration: hand-drawn | Second Place | Risa Cohen, “Too Hot to Handle”
Yearbook Sports Feature Writing | Certificate of Merit | Gabriel Ran, “Players Must ‘Bee’ Careful”
Yearbook Informational Graphics: Single | Second Place | Ananya Asthana and Natalie Bakwin, “Faculty and Staff”
Yearbook Division Page Design | Third Place | Natalie Bakwin and Grace Watson
2019 Print Newspaper (work from 2018-19 school year)
Single Subject News or Feature package, Single-Page Design | First Place | Priyanka Shrijay, “Chicago Choices”
Single Subject News or Feature Package, Double-truck (two-facing pages) | First Place | Emma Trone, “Too Hot To Handle”
Sports Commentary | First Place | Christian Gluth, “Colleges Need to Pay Athletes”
Sidebar Writing | Second Place | Audrey Matzke, “Non-Lab Pride Leaders Discuss Vibe in Schools”
Alternate Story Form | Certificate of Merit | Ella Beiser and Grace Zhang, “Seasons Streamings”
2018 (work from 2017-18 school year)
Art/Illustration: Portfolio of Work | Certificate of Merit | Amber Huo
Op-Ed or News Analysis Page Design | Certificate of Merit | Priyanka Shrijay
Single Subject News or Feature Package, Single Page Design | Certificate of Merit | Emma Trone
2017 (work from 2016-17 school year)
Cultural Feature | Second Place | Natalie Glick
Single spot news photograph | Second Place | Paige Fishman
2019-20 High School Hybrid Newspaper: Gold Medalist with All-Columbian Honors (Essentials, Verbal, Visual)
2018-19 High School Hybrid Newspaper: Gold Medalist with All-Columbian Honors (Essentials, Verbal)
2017-18 High School Print Newspaper: Gold Medalist with All-Colombian Honor (Visual)
2016-17 High School Print Newspaper: Gold Medalist with All-Colombian Honor (Verbal)
2015-16 High School Print Newspaper: Silver Medalist
The U-High Midway has been named to the Newspaper Pacemaker Award list 17 times: 12 winners and 4 finalist-only and one pending.
2023 Newspaper Pacemaker Finalist — results announced Nov. 9
2023 Newspaper Pacemaker Winner
2022 Newspaper Pacemaker Winner
2021 Newspaper Pacemaker Finalist
2020 Newspaper Pacemaker Winner
2019 Newspaper Pacemaker Finalist
2017 Newspaper Pacemaker Finalist
2001 Newspaper Pacemaker Winner
2000 Newspaper Pacemaker Finalist
1991 Newspaper Pacemaker Winner
1990 Newspaper Pacemaker Winner
1984 Newspaper Pacemaker Winner
1980 Newspaper Pacemaker Winner
1972 Newspaper Pacemaker Winner
1970 Newspaper Pacemaker Winner
1968 Newspaper Pacemaker Winner
Undated Pre-1968 Newspaper Pacemaker Winner
Boston Fall Convention November 2023: Newspaper (Enrollment fewer than 1,800), Third Place
San Francisco Spring Convention April 2023: Newspaper (Enrollment fewer than 1,800), First Place
San Francisco Spring Convention April 2023: Website (Enrollment fewer than 1,800), First Place
St. Louis Fall Convention November 2022: Website (Enrollment fewer than 1,800), Seventh Place
St. Louis Fall Convention November 2022: Newspaper (Enrollment fewer than 1,800), Second Place
National Best of Show November 2021: Website (Enrollment fewer than 1,500), First Place
National Best of Show November 2021: Newspaper/Newsmagazine (Enrollment fewer than 1,500), Sixth Place
National Best of Show April 2021: Website (Enrollment fewer than 1,500), First Place
National Best of Show April 2021: Newspaper Tabloid 16 or Fewer Pages, Eighth Place
National Best of Show November 2020: Website (Enrollment fewer than 1,500), Sixth Place
National Best of Show April 2020: Newspaper Tabloid 16 or Fewer Pages, Third Place
National Best of Show April 2020: Website (Enrollment fewer than 1,500), Third Place
Chicago Fall Convention November 2018: Newspaper Tabloid 16 or Fewer Pages, Second Place
Seattle Spring Convention April 2017: Newspaper Tabloid 16 or Fewer Pages, Third Place
National Best of Show November 2021: Podcast, First Place
National Best of Show April 2021: Podcast, Eighth Place
National Best of Show April 2021: COVID-19 Reporting, Tenth Place
National Best of Show November 2020: Election Reporting, Sixth Place
National Best of Show November 2020: Social Justice Reporting, Tenth Place
National Best of Show April 2020: COVID-19 Coverage, Fifth Place
National Best of Show April 2020: Podcast, Tenth Place
2024 Design of the Year: Newspaper Front Page, Mia Lipson, Vol. 99 Issue 7, Feb. 22, 2024
2024 Design of the Year: Newspaper Page/spread, Audrey Park, Affirmative Apprehension
2024 Design of the Year: Newspaper page/spread, Jaya Alenghat, Cicadapalooza
2024 Digital Story of the Year: Photo Slideshow, Jaya Alenghat, Taariq Ahmed, Mia Lipson, Nathan Li, Olin Nafziger, Eli Raikhel, Grace LaBelle, Ryan Burke-Stevenson, Ellis Calleri, Bryce Light
2024 Digital Story of the Year: Photo Slideshow, Olin Nafziger, Jaya Alenghat, Chloe Alexander, Mia Lipson
2024 Photo of the Year: Environmental Portrait, Eli Raikhel
2024 Story of the Year: Opinion Story, Clare McRoberts
2024 Portfolio of the Year: Photojournalist of the Year, Olin Nafziger
2024 Best Use of Social Media: Social Media Reporting, Skye Freeman, Jaya Alenghat, Chloë Alexander, Clare McRoberts
2023 Design of the Year: Newspaper Page/Spread, Honorable Mention, Clare O’Connor
2023 Digital Story of the Year: Multimedia Sports, Fourth Place, Matt Petres, William Tan
2023 Digital Story of the Year: Photo Slideshow, Second Place, Patrice Graham
2023 Digital Story of the Year: Podcast, Second Place, Louis Auxenfans
2023 Photo of the Year: Environmental Portrait, Second Place, Gabriel Issa
2023 Photo of the Year: Environmental Portrait, Honorable Mention, Matt Petres
2023 Photo of the Year: Sports Feature, Honorable Mention, Matthew McGehee
2023 Story of the Year: Editorial, Fifth Place, Clare O’Connor
2023 Story of the Year: Opinion, Third Place, Amy Ren
2022 Digital Story of the Year: Photo Slideshow, Fourth Place, Andrew Burke-Stevenson
2022 Photo of the Year: Environmental Portrait, First Place, Elliott Taylor
2022 Photo of the Year: Environmental Portrait, Honorable Mention, Andrew Burke-Stevenson
2022 Photo of the Year: Feature, Honorable Mention, Andrew Burke-Stevenson
2022 Photo of the Year: News, Fourth Place, Malcolm Taylor
2022 Photo of the Year: Sports Game/Action, Honorable Mention, Andrew Burke-Stevenson
2022 Story of the Year: News, Third Place, Peter Pu
2021 COVID-19 Coverage: Print News/Feature, First Place, Ella Beiser
2021 Photo of the Year: News, First Place, Elliott Taylor
2021 Photo of the Year: Feature, Second Place, Elliott Taylor
2021 COVID-19 Coverage: Online News/Feature, Honorable Mention, Nicky Edwards-Levin
2020 Story of the Year: Editorial, First Place, Nicky Edwards-Levin
2019 Story of the Year: Editorial, Fourth Place, Audrey Matzke
2019 Digital Story of the Year: Podcast, Honorable Mention, Jacob Posner, Emma Trone
2019 Social Justice Reporting: Honorable Mention, Jacob Posner, Emma Trone
2018 Story of the Year: Editorial, First Place, Natalie Glick
2016 Story of the Year: Editorial/Opinion, Second Place, Sonny Lee
2019-20: First Class Rating with Two Marks of Distinction (website)
2019-20: All-American Rating with Four Marks of Distinction (print)
2018-19: All-American Rating with Four Marks of Distinction
2017-18: All-American Rating with Four Marks of Distinction
2016-17: All-American Rating with Four Marks of Distinction
2015-16: All-American Rating with Five Marks of Distinction
2014-15: First Class Rating with Three Marks of Distinction
1965-2014: 49 All-American Ratings
1988 | NSPA Hall of Fame, representing sustained excellence — 10 All-American ratings in no more than 11 years
• Boston Fall Convention November 2023
Superior: Danny Baeza, general/spot news
Excellent: Jaya Alenghat, newswriting
Excellent: Light Dohrn, review writing
Excellent: Declan Smith, yearbook copy/caption: student life
Honorable mention: Chloë Alexander, feature writing
Honorable mention: Abhay Chandran, yearbook copy/caption: academics
Honorable mention: Alex Diamond, feature photo
Honorable mention: Malia Maki, yearbook copy/caption: clubs
Honorable mention: Kaden Moubayed, photo portfolio
Honorable mention: Peyton Palmer, first-year photo
Honorable mention: Victoria Washington, commentary writing
• San Francisco Spring Convention April 2023
Superior: Mia Lipson, editorial writing
Superior: Kaden Moubayed, first-year photo
Superior: Zara Siddique, commentary writing
Excellent: Kabir Joshi, review writing
Honorable mention: Chloë Alexander, news editing/headline/current events
Honorable mention: Light Dohrn, press law and ethics
Honorable mention: Clare McRoberts, feature writing
Honorable mention: Audrey Park, online news package (team)
Honorable mention: Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, online news package (team)
Honorable mention: Sahana Unni, online news package (team)
Honorable mention: Victoria Washington, news writing
• St. Louis Fall Convention November 2022
Commentary Writing | Superior | Krishita Dutta
News Editing/Headline/Current Events | Excellent | Téa Tamburo
Photography Portfolio | Excellent | Matt Petres
Themed Photo | Excellent | Gabriel Issa
Editorial Writing | Honorable Mention | Audrey Park
Feature Writing | Honorable Mention | Sahana Unni
First-Year Photo | Honorable Mention | Kenneth Peters
Press Law and Ethics | Honorable Mention | Audrey Matei
Review Writing | Honorable Mention | Erich Raumann
• Virtual Fall Convention November 2021
Feature Writing | Superior | Peter Pu
First-Year Photo | Excellent | Matt Petres
Photography Portfolio | Excellent | Andrew Burke-Stevenson
Press Law and Ethics | Excellent | An Ngo
Review Writing | Excellent | Téa Tamburo
Portrait Photo | Honorable Mention | Malcolm Taylor
Sports Writing | Honorable Mention | Adrianna Nehme
• Virtual Fall Convention November 2020
Newspaper Design | Superior | Amanda Cassel
Press Law and Ethics | Superior | Berk Oto
Editorial Writing | Excellent | Krishita Dutta
Review Writing | Excellent | Nicky Edwards-Levin
News Writing | Honorable Mention | Peter Pu
Sports Writing | Honorable Mention | Grace Holleb
Commentary Writing | Honorable Mention | An Ngo
Yearbook Copy/Caption: Clubs: | Honorable Mention | Adrianna Nehme
Feature Photo | Honorable Mention | Malcolm Taylor
• Washington, D.C., Fall Convention November 2019
Feature Writing | Superior | Mira Costello
Review Writing | Superior | An Ngo
News Editing/Headline Writing/Current Events | Superior | Peter Pu
Yearbook Copy/Caption: Student Life | Superior | Claire Duncan
Sports Action Photo | Superior | Maria Shaughnessy
Commentary Writing | Excellent | Caledonia Abbey
First-Year Photo | Excellent | Malcolm Taylor
News Writing | Honorable Mention | Grace Holleb
Editorial Writing | Honorable Mention | Olivia Griffin
Sports Writing | Honorable Mention | Julian Ingersoll
Yearbook Copy/Caption: Sports | Honorable Mention | Anathea Carrigan
• Chicago Fall Convention November 2018
News Writing | Superior | Grace Zhang
Yearbook Copy/Captions: Academics | Superior | Grace Watson
Press Law and Ethics | Excellent | Otto Brown
Sports Writing | Excellent | Priyanka Shrijay
Yearbook Copy/Captions: Clubs | Excellent | Mira Costello
Editorial Writing | Honorable Mention | Emma Trone
Feature Writing | Honorable Mention | Jacob Posner
Yearbook Copy/Captions: Sports | Honorable Mention | Claire Duncan
Yearbook Copy/Captions: Student Life | Honorable Mention | Yael Rolnik
• Seattle Spring Convention April 2017
News Writing | Excellent | Emma Trone
Sports Writing | Honorable Mention | Jacob Posner
2017 Runner-up: Marissa Martinez
2015 Runner-up: Michael Glick
The award recognizes those students who have proven themselves indispensable to their respective school media. Since the award began in 2005, 18 U-High students have been recognized. One student was recognized twice, and three all-state teams have had two U-High students.
2024 Taariq Ahmed and Olin Nafziger
2023 Patrice Graham and Audrey Park
2022 Téa Tamburo
2021 Caroline Hohner
2020 Amanda Cassel
2019 Emma Trone
2018 Priyanka Shrijay
2017 Marissa Martinez
2016 Grace Anderson
2015 Michael Glick
2014 Michael Glick
2011 Sydney Scarlata
2010 Nick Chaskin
2009 Gabriel Bump
2008 Liwen Xu
2007 Jeremy Lacocque
2005 Joseph Bernardoni and Danielle Goldman
Best Overall Publication (Print, Digital or Hybrid)
Best Hybrid Publication
News Story
1st: Multiple thefts reported this month, Sahana Unni
2nd: University bars land acknowledgement statements, Clare McRoberts
In-Depth News Story
1st: Students use Zyn nicotine products, despite discouragement, Audrey Park
2nd: Fact or fiction: Teens use social media as news source, risks included, Clare McRoberts
Feature Story
2nd: Hiding honky-tonk, Audrey Park
3rd: Fragrance fanatics: trend sparks student interest in cologne, Sahana Unni
Personality Profile
1st: Sewn together: Ki Kim and Yang Kim, Skye Freeman
2nd: Juggling Act: Senior works to explore passions with numerous roles in upcoming fall play, Taariq Ahmed
Sports News Story
1st: 7 seniors commit to play college athletics in community event, Taariq Ahmed
Sports Feature Story
1st: Coaching with care: Tyrone Mason, Jaya Alenghat
2nd: Muslim student athletes navigate fasting during Ramadan while maintaining physical endurance, Jaya Alenghat
Sports Commentary
1st: A new White Sox stadium would be beneficial but nonessential, Jaya Alenghat
3rd: Like their male counterparts, allow female athletes to display emotion during competitions, Victoria Washington
Staff Editorial
1st: After alarm, attitude must change, Mia Lipson
2nd: Election breach threatens student voice, Clare McRoberts
Serious Commentary
1st: It’s time to end legacy admissions, Clare McRoberts
HM: Mindy Kaling’s depiction of Indian women isn’t a step forward, Sahana Unni
Review
1st: Live-action anime series, ‘One Piece,’ exceeds expectations, Light Dohrn
2nd: ‘The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’ brings strong acting, flawed storytelling, Light Dohrn
News or Feature Photo
1st: A community essential: Phillip Raoul (main image), Eli Raikhel
HM: Arm wrestling battle, (Photo 2), Alex Diamond
Sports Photo
1st: One-run loss ends baseball season, Matthew McGehee (Class of 2024)
3rd: Gallery: Winter sports in review (Photo 3: Boys basketball), Ellis Calleri
Editorial Cartoon
2nd: Election breach threatens student voice, Eliza Dearing
HM: Safety changes emphasize distrust, Eliza Dearing
Best Illustration
1st: In-Depth: Affirmative Apprehension, Eliza Dearing
3rd: Arts: Deceptive drama, Sygne Stole
Infographic
1st: 99.1-06 In-Depth: Affirmative Apprehension (6 key events timeline)
3rd: 99.5-09 Arts: Five to Try, Chloë Alexander
Alternative Storytelling
1st: News: Fresh faces, Audrey Park, Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Sahana Unni
2nd: In-Depth: U-High students also aren’t too enthusiastic (poll), Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu
Use of Social Media
1st: Instagram
Headline
2nd: Features: Fragrance Fanatics, ClareMcRoberts, Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu
Multimedia Story Package
1st: Balancing Act: A brotherly bond drives twin gymnasts Akshay and Kavan Puri to success, William Tan (Class of 2024), Matt Petres (Class of 2024)
2nd: Mocktail Mania: Fruity, fizzy drinks offer nonalchoholic, fun beverage option, Haley Maharry, Jaya Alenghat, Chloë Alexander, Clare McRoberts, Olin Nafziger
Video Story
1st: Video: Taylor Swift fans unite over clothing, bracelets and songs, Clare McRoberts
2nd: New club provides outlet for musicians, gives back to community, Haley Maharry
Audio Journalism
1st: Audio: Chicago music school experiences boom in business, Ari Novak
2nd: Audio: Band shares joy of music with youngest Lab students in Halloween parade, Skye Freeman
Photo Gallery or Photo Slideshow
1st: ArtsFest activities reflect students spirit, creativity, Taariq Ahmed, Chloë Alexander, Skye Freeman
2nd: U-High celebrates community spirit in annual Homecoming assembly, Taariq Ahmed, Mia Lipson, Alex Diamond, Bryce Light, Olin Nafziger, Eli Raikhel
Website
1st: uhighmidway.com
Single-Page Story Package
1st: City Life: Emmett Till museum, Clare McRoberts
2nd: Arts: Hiding honky-tonk, Chloë Alexander, Audrey Park, Mia Lipson, Haley Maharry
Centerspread Story Package
1st: In-Depth: Freedom Flare-up, Audrey Park
2nd: In-Depth: Affirmative Apprehension, Audrey Park
Photo Story
1st: Sports: Raw reactions, Zara Siddique, Sahana Unni
Front-Page Design
1st: Vol. 99, Issue 7, Feb. 22, 2024, Mia Lipson
2nd: Vol. 98, Issue 21, June 1, 2023, Mia Lipson
Overall Design
Best Overall Publication (Print, Digital or Hybrid)
Best Hybrid Publication
News Story
2nd: Identity groups demand community address hate speech, Téa Tamburo
3rd: With powerful testimonials of discrimination, groups call for action, Taariq Ahmed, Mia Lipson, Téa Tamburo
In-Depth News Story
2nd: Leaving Lab: Black students say school environment is unwelcoming, Audrey Park
3rd: Safety and security: Half of surveyed worry about safety on campus, Clare McRoberts
Feature Story
1st: Role-playing game builds community through stories, Amy Ren
Personality Profile
1st: Accessibility advocate: Student reflects on fight for disability rights in published book, Louis Auxenfans
2nd: Bel Canto singer finds his voice in song, Clare McRoberts
Sports Feature Story
1st: Pressure to perform: Students say managing workload, sports comes with cost, William Tan
Sports Commentary
3rd: FIFA World Cup (Chapter 2): Qatar sparks controversy as World Cup host, Zara Siddique
HM: Keep no-cut: Everyone plays their part, William Tan
Staff Editorial
1st: Administrators: Denounce and address hateful actions, Clare O’Connor
2nd: Step up to support peers’ mental health, Sahana Unni
Serious Commentary
1st: New auditorium name at odds with values, Sahana Unni
HM: U-High must shine a light on Asian American struggles, Amy Ren
Review
1st: ‘M3GAN’ combines humor and horror to tell relevant, engaging story, Amon Gray
2nd: Video game ‘Elden Ring’ provides challenging gameplay, beautiful graphics, Erich Raumann
News or Feature Photo
1st: Historic campus experiences unexpected fire alarm (main photo), Malcolm Taylor
2nd: Photos: ArtsFest 2023 (Photo 5 Chicago Boyz acrobats), Kaden Moubayed
Sports Photo
2nd: Photo gallery: Focused Faces (main photo), Patrice Graham
HM: Nesbitt named ISL Player of the Year; others receive all-conference honors: Ellis Calleri
Editorial Cartoon
1st: New auditorium name at odds with values, Dalin Dohrn
3rd: It’s time to establish boundaries for AI use, Dalin Dohrn
Illustration
1st: Rethinking Therapy, Dalin Dohrn, Sept. 29, 2022
Infographic
1st: Falling into the Manosphere (Who’s Who), Clare O’Connor, Feb. 23, 2023
2nd: Christmas season keeps creeping closer (snowflake graphic), Téa Tamburo, Ethan Swinger, Dec. 8, 2022
Alternative Storytelling
1st: Rising Stars, Amon Gray, Chloë Alexander, Audrey Matei, Téa Tamburo, Ainsley Williams, Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Victoria Washington, Jan. 24
HM: Light up the season with city’s holiday activities, Téa Tamburo, Dec. 8, 2022
Use of Social Media
1st: Instagram
2nd: Facebook
Headline
1st: ABCs of CBD, Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu
Multimedia Story Package
1st: Stitched together: New elective blends artistic creativity, fashion through experimental approach, Amy Ren, Zara Siddique
2nd: Video: Volunteers decorate South Side to spread holiday spirit, Matt Petres, Patrice Graham
Video Story
1st: Weighed down: Are packs harming our backs?, Clare O’Connor
2nd: Video: Behind the scenes, ‘Seussical’ set crew is foundation of theater, Colin Leslie
Audio Journalism
1st: Audio: The beat boys — Club provides opportunity for music exploration, socialization, Téa Tamburo, Sahana Unni
2nd: Audio: How we treat women in power — it’s not just Taylor Swift who faces sexism, Krishita Dutta and Clare McRoberts
Photo Gallery or Photo Slideshow — minimum 6 images
1st: Photo gallery: Focused Faces, Andrew Burke-Stevenson, Carter Chang, Patrice Graham, Gabriel Issa, Matthew McGehee, Chloe Ma, Matt Petres, Amy Ren, Elliott Taylor, Malcolm Taylor
2nd: Photos: ArtsFest 2023, Victoria Washington and Audrey Matei, Kaden Moubayed, Henry Benton, Patrice Graham, Matthew McGehee, Ishani Hariprasad, Sarah Abdelsalam
Website
1st: uhighmidway.com
Single-Page Story Package
1st: City Life Page 4, Peter Cox, Feb. 23, 2023
2nd: Health & Wellness Page 3, Clare McRoberts, Feb. 23, 2023
Centerspread Story Package
1st: Falling into the Manosphere Pipeline, Clare O’Connor, Feb. 23, 2023
2nd: Can they play?, Lucia Kouri, April 14, 2022
Photo Story
1st: Focused Faces, Andrew Burke-Stevenson, Carter Chang, Patrice Graham, Gabriel Issa, Meena Lee, Matthew McGehee, Chloe Ma, Matt Petres, Amy Ren, Elliott Taylor, Malcolm Taylor
Front-Page Design
1st: Vol. 98, Issue 13, Louis Auxenfans, Sept. 29, 2022
2nd: Vol. 98, Issue 16, Louis Auxenfans, Dec. 8, 2022
Overall Design
1st: Volume 98, Issue 18, Feb. 23, 2023
Website
1st: uhighmidway.com
Best Overall Publication (Print, Digital or Hybrid)
Best Hybrid Publication
News Story
1st: New law addresses youth mental health, Adrianna Nehme
Second place: Student vaccination rate at ‘excellent place’, Lucia Kouri
In-Depth News Story
1st: Mistreated: Faculty of color speak out, Peter Pu
2nd: Heavy workload aggravates students, Peter Pu, Meena Lee
Feature Story
1st: Survivors of police torture fight for justice and healing, Audrey Park
HM: Pronoun problems: Students frustrated when teachers don’t use the right pronouns, Sahana Unni
Personality Profile
1st: One book, two cultures: Junior writes children’s book exploring intersectionality, multicultural heritage, William Tan
3rd: Setting up SET: Senior expands knowledge of fashion design through theater, Meena Lee
Sports News Story
1st: Sailing team places first in Illinois State Championship, Sahanna Unni
3rd: Citing gender dynamic, some girls uncomfortable using fitness center, Lucia Kouri
Sports Feature Story
3rd: Ping Pong Pals: Seniors connect over table tennis tournament, William Tan
HM: A case of Chronic coaching: Swim coach and paramedic pushes others to succeed, Caroline Hohner
Sports Commentary
HM: Future of soccer threatened by higher-level mismanagement, Christian Gluth
Staff Editorial
1st: To curb violence, commit to research, Erich Raumann
2nd: Overwhelmed students need help, Ryan Clark
Serious Commentary
1st: Deconstruct the fetishization of Asian women, Meena Lee
HM: Real diversity is more than “inclusion”, Audrey Matzke
Review
1st: Lang Lang’s interpretative sense falters on ‘Goldberg Variations’, Louis Auxenfans
3rd: Fresh take on Spider-Man surpasses expectations, Ethan Swinger
News or Feature Photo
2nd: Lake Shore Drive renamed to honor DuSable, Chicago’s first settler, Elliott Taylor
3rd: Russian invasion shock, concerns students of Ukrainian descent, Matt Petres
Sports Photo
1st: Winter sports return in full swing (Photo 2: Fencing), Gabriel Issa
2nd: Sailing team places first in Illinois State Championship, Andrew Burke-Stevenson
Illustration
1st: Pronoun problems, Dalin Dohrn
3rd: Beijing Olympics, Dalin Dohrn
Infographic
1st: Misinformation fast facts, Peter Pu
3rd: Metaverse timeline (augmented reality), Amon Gray
Alternative Storytelling
1st: That’s a Wrap, Dec. 16, 2021 (Page 9), Caroline Hohner, Amy Ren
Use of Social Media
1st: Instagram
2nd: Facebook
Headline
HM: Covid, controversy, competition, Meena Lee
Multimedia Story Package
1st: Pullman: A monumental neighborhood, Louis Auxenfans, Andrew Burke-Stevenson
2nd: Members of Class of 2021 graduate on Jackman Field, Peter Pu, Elliott Taylor, Andrew Burke-Stevenson
Audio Journalism
1st: Texting while Zooming: In lieu of quick in-person asides, students text during class, Caroline Hohner
2nd: Parade watchers express differing views on Columbus and holiday, Téa Tamburo, Audrey Matei
Photo Gallery or Photo Slideshow
1st: Rock stars: Through rock climbing, students reach new heights, Andrew Burke-Stevenson
2nd: Photo gallery: Faculty face off in Homecoming arm wrestling tournament, staff
Single-Page Story Package
2nd: Pfizer frenzy May 6, 2021 (Page 24), Ella Beiser
3rd: Olympics Feb. 10, 2022 (Page 16), Meena Lee, Audrey Park
Centerspread Story Package
1st: Doing Our Part March 10, 2022 (Pages 8-9), Berk Oto
2nd: Into the Metaverse Nov. 11, 2021 (Pages 6-7), Berk Oto
Front-Page Design
1st: March 10, 2022 (Page 1), Adrianna Nehme
Overall Design
1st: March 10, 2022
Website
1st: uhighmidway.com
Best Overall Publication (Print, Digital or Hybrid): 2nd place
Best Hybrid Publication
News Story
1st: 94 teachers at risk for 2021-22 layoff, Amanda Cassel
In-Depth News Story
1st: Struggling in Solitude, Caroline Hohner, An Ngo
2nd: U-High students overwhelmingly choose Biden Amanda Cassel
Feature Story
1st: StreetWise has changed the face of homelessness in Chicago, Adrianna Nehme
Personality Profile
1st: Built on a Lab foundation: Alumnus Paul Sagan employs experiential learning in leadership roles, Berk Oto
Sports Commentary
2nd: To fulfill commitment to student athletes, colleges should reallocate funds and not cut teams, Colin Leslie
3rd: ‘Friendly Confines,’ not confined to home: It’s time for fans to return to stands, Christian Gluth
Staff Editorial
1st: Lab must approach faculty bias with transparent, fair guidelines, Berk Oto, Amanda Cassel
2nd: Teachers should consider cutting curriculum to increase learning, Lucia Kouri, Ella Beiser, Amanda Cassel
Serious Commentary
1st: We all have to do our part in social distancing, Ella Beiser
HM: Inclusion at Lab must mean more than a single identifier, Téa Tamburo
Review
3rd: Feminism and Freedom: “What the Constitution Means to Me” entertains with wit, provokes political introspection, Caroline Hohner
News or Feature Photo
1st: Photo 4: Downtown Chicago protest against racial injustice, Maria Shaughnessy
2nd: Protesting parents, Elliott Taylor
Sports Photo
1st: Boys basketball vs. North Shore Country Day School, Miriam Bloom
3rd: Golfer Emily Chang, Chloe Ma
Headline
2nd: Election 2020: Final lap and recap, Amanda Cassel
3rd: Baking a difference: Student launches online bakery, donates proceeds to charities, Peter Pu, Grace Holleb
Alternative Storytelling
1st: Take our social distancing friendly walking tour of Chicago’s neighborhoods, An Ngo, Caroline Hohner, Colin Leslie
Use of Social Media
1st: Instagram — Meena Lee, Berk Oto
2nd: Facebook — Berk Oto, Noa Appelbaum, Meena Lee, Téa Tamburo
Single-Page Story Package
1st: March 9, 2021, Page 1, Ella Beiser, Amanda Cassel, Sahanna Unni & Nicky Edwards-Levin
Front-Page Design
1st: March 9, 2021, Page 1, Ella Beiser, Amanda Cassel
Overall Design
2nd: March 12, 2021, Amanda Cassel, Nicky Edwards-Levin, Ella Beiser, Peter Pu
Audio Journalism
1st: One year of distance, Ella Beiser
2nd: Without volunteers, organizations need extra assistance, Adrianna Nehme
Multimedia Story Package
1st: Shared spaces: Families come to understand distance learning, work lives, Caroline Hohner
2nd: Promontory Point provides safe, nostalgic outdoor space to see friends, take part in activities, Clare O’Connor
COVID-19 Coverage — April 1, 2020, to March 15, 2021
2nd: Chicago’s Latinx communities face unique challenges combating pandemic, Ella Beiser
Website
1st: uhighmidway.com
Best Overall Publication (Print, Digital or Hybrid)
Best Hybrid Publication
Best Website
Best COVID-19 Coverage (special category)
1st: Coronavirus delays Chinese exchange trip, Madeline Welch
3rd: Beach family repatriated after being stranded in Peru, Abigail Slimmon, Berk Oto
Best News Story
1st: To protest, dancers must sit, Ella Beiser
3rd: Lab students participate in Global Climate strike in Chicago, Audrey Matzke
Best In-Depth News Story
1st: Climate crisis: How teachers plan to address the generation’s hottest issue, Peter Pu
2nd: Teachers go ‘gradeless’, Nikhil Patel
Best Feature Story
1st: TikTok encourages self-expression, community, Audrey Matzke
Honorable Mention: Suburban commuters experience positives, negatives, Ella Beiser
Best Personality Profile
1st: Senior enjoys creating complex engineering projects, Grace Brady
3rd: Gigi Reece’s percussion passion, Olivia Griffin
Best Sports News Story
1st: Boys soccer team places first at state, Nicky Edwards-Levin, Christian Gluth, Ella Beiser
2nd: P.E. department says athletics are not suitable substitute, Ella Beiser
Best Sports Feature Story
1st: Esports proves growing and successful industry, Christian Gluth
2nd: Refereeing done right: Student, teacher collaborate over calling signals, Madeline Welch
Best Staff Editorial
1st: Identity clubs need our help to thrive, Nicky Edwards-Levin, Madeline Welch
3rd: Teens: count on your peers, Iván Beck
Best Serious Commentary
1st: Wellness is about more than just academics, Audrey Matzke
Honorable Mention: Zero-waste should be an affordable lifestyle, Leland Culver
Best Review
1st: Memoir explores survivor-attacker narrative, Amanda Cassel
2nd: World of Warhol: Art Institute hosts retrospective exhibit, Olivia Griffin
Best News or Feature Photo
1st: March 2, 2020: All in the air (photo 5 in series), Maria Shaughnessy
Honorable Mention: 96.7 p12 It’s Rocket Science, Elliott Taylor
Best Sports Photo
1st: 96.2 p11 Tight-knit tennis team, Maria Shaughnessy
Honorable Mention: 96.5 p10 Heads up, Maria Shaughnessy
Best Illustration
2nd: 95.8 p6-7 Too Hot To Handle, Risa Cohen
Honorable Mention: 96.6 p6-7 Race for the Nomination, Risa Cohen
Best Infographic
2nd: 96.7 p8 Facts on Fire, Nicky Edwards-Levin
3rd: 96.2 p6-7 Vaping Quick Facts, Amanda Cassel, Abigail Slimmon
Best Alternative Storytelling
2nd: 96.7 p7 Brought to the table, Abigail Slimmon, Nikhil Patel
Honorable Mention: 95.10 p12 Take time during break to rest, recharge, Olivia Griffin, Leland Culver, Willow Young
Best Use of Social Media
1st: Instagram — Abigail Slimmon
3rd: Facebook — Leland Culver
Best Headline
1st: 96.7 p12 He’s a rocket man, Audrey Matzke
Best Single-Page Story Package
1st: 96.2 p12 Whole new headspace, Ella Beiser, Berk Oto, Julian Ingersoll, Ace Zhang
2nd: 96.5 p11 Sports on Screens, Nicky Edwards-Levin, Christian Gluth
Best Centerspread Story Package
1st: 96.5 p6-7 Swipe and scroll, Nikhil Patel, Amanda Cassel, Audrey Matzke, Peter Pu, Maria Shaughnessy
3rd: 96.6 p6-7 Race for the Nomination, Amanda Cassel, Anathea Carrigan, Nicky Edwards-Levin, Caroline Hohner, Risa Cohen
Best Photo Story
1st: 95.8 p11 Get on board with spring, Odysseas Nikas, Abigail Slimmon, Katerina Lopez
2nd: 96.2 p2 Homecoming Week, Mira Costello, Kathy Luan, Maria Shaughnessy, Malcolm Taylor
Best Front-Page Design
1st: 96.4, Dec. 12, 2019 — Mira Costello
2nd: 96.7, March 12, 2020 — Ella Beiser
Best Overall Design
1st: 96.5, Jan. 24, 2020
2nd: 96.7, March 12, 2020
Best Multimedia Story Package
1st: Artsfest provides time for creativity, relaxation, Peter Pu, Miriam Bloom, Kathy Luan, Maria Shaughnessy, Elliott Taylor, Malcolm Taylor
2nd: Campus sound show provides new art experience, Peter Pu
Best Audio Podcast
3rd: The Bubble: Religion, Jacob Posner, Emma Trone
Honorable Mention: The Bubble: Race, Jacob Posner, Emma Trone
Best Photo Gallery or Photo Slideshow
3rd: Sept. 30, 2019: Students embrace Spirit Week with fun outfits, Nicky Edwards-Levin, Macy Beal, Kathy Luan, Malcolm Taylor, Maria Shaughnessy
Honorable Mention: March 2, 2020: Art, music, fun abound at Art in the Dark, Peter Pu, Maria Shaughnessy, Leland Culver
Best Overall Publication (Print, Digital or Hybrid)
Best Print Publication
Best News Story
2nd: Community in protest, Mira Costello and Jacob Posner
Best In-Depth News Story
1st: Community reacts: Lab’s sexual education must evolve to match student realities, Emma Trone and Jacob Posner
2nd: Fearing stereotypes, boys don’t express sexuality, Jacob Posner
Best Feature Story
1st: Inspiring inmates, Sonny Lee
2nd: Simple, easy, popular, Caledonia Abbey
Best Personality Profile
2nd: Day in, day out, junior gives back, Samira Glaeser-Khan
3rd: Swift, silly and serious, Nikhil Patel
Best Sports News Story
3rd: Despite complaints, head guards now in use, Abigail Slimmon
Best Sports Feature Story
1st: Socializing & Sweating, Mira Costello
3rd: Maroon fans energize Roman stands, Emma Trone
Best Sports Commentary
1st: Colleges need to pay athletes for their commitment, Christian Gluth
2nd: Female athletes deserve equal recognition, Emma Trone
Best Staff Editorial
1st: Administrators: You must walk the talk, Mira Costello
2nd: At other private schools, a free student press should be the norm, Emma Trone, Priyanka Shrijay, Jacob Posner
Best Serious Commentary
1st: Gender dynamics at Lab mirror Kavanaugh case, Emma Trone
2nd: It’s OK not to know how to help with an eating disorder, Mira Costello
Best Review
1st: Obama’s memoir shows path of a woman to glory, Priyanka Shrijay
2nd: Saucy Porka fuses Asian, Latin American cuisines, Iván Beck
Best News or Feature Photo
3rd: A man with many faces, Lily Vag-Urminsky
Best Sports Photo
1st: Come sail away, Odysseas Nikas
Honorable Mention: State stunner, Michelle Husain
Best Editorial Cartoon
2nd: Administrators: You must walk the talk, Risa Cohen
Best Illustration
2nd: Sled the city, Risa Cohen
Best Infographic
Honorable Mention: Of boys at U-High, Jacob Posner and Priyanka Shrijay
Best Alternative Storytelling
1st: Hallowed Halls, Iván Beck
2nd: Seasons Streamings, Ella Beiser and Grace Zhang
Best Use of Social Media
1st: Instagram, Abigail Slimmon
Best Headline
3rd: All shapes and slices, Jacob Posner
Best Advertisement
1st: The Sitdown, Max Garfinkel
Best Single-Page Story Package
1st: Sky-high homework, Emma Trone, Grace Zhang, Priyanka Shrijay, Max Garfinkel, Ace Zhang
2nd: Chicago choices, Priyanka Shrijay, Grace Zhang, Jacob Posner, Leland Culver, Berk Oto, Risa Cohen
Best Centerspread Story Package
1st: Not straight, not seen, Jacob Posner, Priyanka Shrijay, Audrey Matzke, Iván Beck, Ace Zhang
2nd: Blue wave, or red reaction? Emma Trone, Amanda Cassel, Mira Costello, Iván Beck, Katerina Lopez
Best Front-Page Design
3rd: 95.02, Jacob Posner
Honorable Mention: 95.06, Emma Trone
Best Overall Design
1st: 95.05, Jan. 25, 2019
2nd: 95.06, Feb. 14, 2019
Best Multimedia Story Package
2nd: Sept, 15, 2018: Spirited, whole-day event marks reopening of Jackman Field, Jacob Posner, Max Garfinkel, Nicholas Merchant
Best Video Story
1st: March 3, 2019: A look behind the scenes of Artsfest 2019, Grace Zhang
2nd: Feb. 22, 2019: Swimmer Mitch Walker will compete at state meet today, Emma Trone
Best Website
1st: https://uhighmidway.com, Jacob Posner, Emma Trone, Priyanka Shrijay, Nikhil Patel
Best Overall Newspaper | Division 4
Advertising: Michael Glick, second and third place
Centerspread: Grace Anderson and Michael Glick, first place; Grace Anderson, third place
Column Writing: Luke Murphy, second; Michael Glick, third
Comic Strip or Panel: Lydia Fama, first; Kat Flocke, second
Editorial Cartoon: Lydia Fama, first
Feature Writing: Michael Glick, first; Grace Anderson, Micaiah Buchheim-Jurisson and Julian Lark, second
Front Page Design: Michael Glick, second
Headline Writing: Luke Murphy, first
News Writing: Julian Lark, first; Maia Boussy, second
Overall Design: Staff, second
Review Writing: Clyde Schwab, second
Sports Writing: Alex Harron, first; Micaiah Buchheim-Jurrison, second
Editorial Writing: Staff, second
Sweepstakes Award Winner
Overall Newspaper: U-High Midway staff, superior
Overall Website, U-High Midway staff, superior
Community Story: Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, superior
News Story: Clare McRoberts, superior
Non-Sports Photo: Ryan Burke-Stevenson, superior
Opinion Piece or Column: Clare McRoberts, superior
Sports Feature Story: William Tan, Class of 2023, superior
Staff Editorial: Mia Lipson, superior
Original Editorial Cartoon, Drawing or Comic: Eliza Dearing, superior
Special Coverage: Audrey Park, Sahana Unni and Clare McRoberts, superior
Broadcast Feature: Clare McRoberts, excellent
General Feature Story: Audrey Park, excellent
Sports Photo: Bryce Light, excellent
Sports News Story: Jaya Alenghat, excellent
Overall Newspaper: U-High Midway staff, superior
Community Story: Clare O’Connor, superior
General Feature Story: Amy Ren, superior
Non-Sports Photo: Malcolm Taylor (Class of 2022), superior
Opinion Piece or Column: Amy Ren, superior
Original Editorial Cartoon: Dalin Dohrn, superior
Special Coverage: Clare O’Connor, William Tan, Chloe Alexander and Amy Ren, superior
Sports Photo: Patrice Graham, superior
Audio Journalism: Caroline Hohner (Class of 2022), excellent
Entertainment Review: Erich Raumann, excellent
News Story: Audrey Park, excellent
Personality Profile: Louis Auxenfans, excellent
Sports News Story: Ethan Swinger, excellent
Sports Feature Story: William Tan, excellent
Staff Editorial: Clare O’Connor, excellent
March 2019
Personal Column | Honorable Mention | Mira Costello
March 2018
Political Writing | Third Place | Jacob Posner
Editorial Writing | Honorable Mention | Michael Rubin
Sports Writing | Honorable Mention | Sonny Lee
Feature Writing | Honorable Mention | Priyanka Shrijay
Opinion Column | Honorable Mention | Katerina Lopez
March 2016
Editorial Writing | Honorable Mention | Elena Maestripieri
In-depth Team Reporting | Honorable Mention | Grace Anderson, Micaiah Buchheim-Jurisson, Alex Lundsgaarde, Willis Weinstein
News Writing | Honorable Mention | Elizabeth Chon
Political Writing | Honorable Mention | Julian Lark
Profile | Honorable Mention | Ariel Gans
Profile | Honorable Mention | Clyde Schwab
March 2015
Feature Writing | Honorable Mention | Clyde Schwab
News Writing | Honorable Mention | Elizabeth Chon