The National Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists, also known as NLGJA, honors the work of journalists and media professionals every year with awards in categories such as Excellence in Blogging, Excellence in Political Writing and more.
Special yearly awards are also presented to journalists who go above and beyond in their careers and coverage.
Scott Evans, an entertainment journalist and on-air personality, has been named the 2024 recipient of the Lisa Ben Award for Achievement in Features Coverage. The award recognizes “insight and impact through engaging features on LGBTQ+ individuals, the LGBTQ+ community or LGBTQ+ issues.”
Evans, who has interviewed Hollywood celebrities and hosted TV shows like “Access Hollywood” and “World of Dance,” is celebrated for his professional achievements and commitment to philanthropy, particularly in youth development.
Erin Reed, a transgender journalist known for her impactful work on LGBTQ+ issues, has been awarded the 2024 Jeanne Córdova Award. Reed has been recognized for her extensive coverage of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and her dedication to raising awareness through her research and social media presence.
Her work, including a widely viewed Google Map tracking gender-affirming care clinics, has been cited by major media outlets and reached millions. The Jeanne Córdova Award honors outstanding achievements by LGBTQ+ women in journalism, highlighting Reed’s significant contributions to the field. She is currently based in Washington, D.C., and is engaged to Montana Rep. Zooey Zephyr.
Lauren McGaughy, an investigative reporter and editor for The Texas Newsroom, has been honored with the 2024 Randy Shilts Award for LGBTQ+ Coverage. This prestigious award recognizes journalists who excel in bringing LGBTQ+ stories to mainstream media, continuing the legacy of Randy Shilts, a pioneering reporter in LGBTQ+ journalism.
McGaughy has dedicated over a decade to covering LGBTQ+ issues, first in Louisiana and now in Texas, where she established the gender, sexuality and politics beat at The Dallas Morning News. Her work has exposed the targeting of drag queens, anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and the high rate of transgender murders in Texas. Her contributions to journalism have been widely recognized, including a nomination for a GLAAD award.
Evans, Reed and McGaughy will formally receive their awards in ceremonies at this year’s conference, taking place next week in Hollywood, California.
NBCUniversal’s Yvette Miley, who will receive the NLGJA’s Leadership Award and The Advocate, which will receive the Legacy Award for “innovative, high-quality and sustained news coverage of the LGBTQ+ community over an extended period of time,” will also be honored.
