In a world where media recognition plays a critical role, EWTN Global Catholic Network certainly didn't hold back at the 2026 Catholic Media Awards this past June in Irondale, Alabama. Over 75 awards in the bag, including a whopping 30 first-place trophies, is no small feat—and EWTN's got the goods to show for it.
Significant Achievements for EWTN
This year's accolades highlight EWTN's sweeping coverage of key events within the Catholic Church. They meticulously reported on topics such as the death of Pope Francis and the election of the first American Pope, Leo XIV, plus the lives of Christians facing persecution worldwide.
Recognition Across Multiple Platforms
EWTN's ability to innovate and adapt across various multimedia platforms is what sets the network apart. Their efforts weren't limited to just one medium. Instead, they showcased excellence across the spectrum:
- Digital and Social Media: Social media ace Debbie Cowden took home "Social Media Professional of the Year," while EWTN's coverage of Pope Leo XIV’s digital encounter with young Catholics snagged awards in "Best Multimedia Package – News" and "Best Social Media Campaign – General Interest."
- Photography and Video: Daniel Ibáñez, EWTN's snapper capturing iconic moments, bagged "Photographer of the Year." Their video special "Before Francis, Who Was Bergoglio?" also led in "Best Video – Hot Topic – Pope Francis."
- Publishing: From EWTN Publishing, 'Leo XIV: Portrait of the First American Pope' grabbed a respectable second place spot.
Continued Excellence in Storytelling
Stories coming out of EWTN continue to resonate deeply within the Catholic community. One compelling documentary claimed top honors, "Christians Fight to Survive: ISIS in Iraq," proving their knack for capturing stories that truly matter.
The Global Impact
President of EWTN News, Montse Alvarado, summed it up eloquently: the past year represented landmark moments for both EWTN and the global Church terrain. From the historic passing of Pope Francis to Pope Leo XIV’s emergence, these stories demanded novel approaches and a chance to innovate.
EWTN has not only withstood the pressures of a rapidly shifting media landscape but has thrived, establishing touchpoints for followers around the world to engage and connect with their faith deeply.
"EWTN remains committed to meeting audiences wherever they are," said Michael P. Warsaw, CEO. "Both traditional and emerging platforms are crucial for us to ensure accessibility to the Gospel."
Concluding Thoughts
The awards announced during the Catholic Media Conference in Atlantic City underline EWTN's unshakable resolve in continuing its mission. These accolades are not just an acknowledgment of their existing work—they are a testament to EWTN’s relentless pursuit of quality and faith-led storytelling. As the largest Catholic media organization globally, they clearly understand the power held within the truth stories they deliver.
Whether it’s across print, digital, or radio, EWTN's voice stays unwavering, willingly bridging audiences to Jesus Christ and His Church. It's a road that offers both enormous responsibility and enormous potential—one that EWTN seems more than ready to navigate.
