Each year ONA opens applications to select 200+ volunteers to screen and judge entries for the Online Journalism Awards. Applications to volunteer in these roles for 2025 Online Journalism Awards closed on May 15.
Screeners are the first group of evaluators to review entries. Their collective evaluations determine which entries move forward to the semi-finalist round. This opportunity is ideal for mid-career journalism and journalism-adjacent professionals looking to evaluate some of the best journalism around the world and for those who want to have an impact on selecting award-winning journalism. We’re looking for volunteers with a wide array of expertise, backgrounds and perspective.
Judges are the final group of evaluators to review entries. Their evaluations determine which entries are selected as finalists and winners. This opportunity is ideal for senior-level journalism and journalism-adjacent professionals looking for a meaningful volunteer opportunity. Judges will work with a panel to select the 2025 slate of journalism to be honored.
We’re looking for volunteers who bring unique experience and perspective to this process. We strongly recommend serving as a screener for at least 2 years before applying to be a judge. Applicants who do not meet the judges criteria will still be considered to serve as a screener.
Simply use the form below to submit your information for consideration of a screener or judge role for the 2025 Online Journalism Awards.
We will do our best to match your preferences but cannot promise that you will be offered the preferred role or categories you identify throughout the application process. The notification schedule is as follows:
Your information will only be shared with ONA staff members and the ONA Awards and Recognition Committee to help select the 2025 group of screeners and judges.
