UPDATE: The Los Angeles Times has just been awarded first place in the prestigious 2025 Online Journalism Awards (OJA) for its exceptional portfolio of newsletters. This recognition, announced during a virtual ceremony on August 28, 2025, highlights the Times’ commitment to innovative storytelling and community engagement in digital journalism.
The Times triumphed in the excellence in newsletters (portfolio) category, showcasing its standout suite of offerings, including Essential California, The Wild, L.A. on the Record, Dodgers Dugout, and In Case of Fire. “We are thrilled to see The Times’ newsletters recognized by the Online Journalism Awards,” said Karim Doumar, head of newsletters at the L.A. Times. He emphasized that this honor reflects the team’s dedication and ambition in connecting with their audience.
The award submission highlighted the vital role of building relationships between reporters and readers. Doumar noted that the Times’ newsletter portfolio is based on fostering “voice and thoughtful relationships between writers and our readers,” which he believes is the future of journalism.
In addition to this top honor, The Wild newsletter also received recognition as a finalist in the excellence in newsletters (single newsletter) category. Authored by staff writer Jaclyn Cosgrove, this weekly guide serves L.A.’s urban outdoor community, offering insights on how to explore and appreciate the city’s natural landscapes.
This accolade reinforces the L.A. Times’ position as a leading source of news that resonates with diverse audiences. As digital journalism continues to evolve, the Times’ innovative approach to newsletters exemplifies how media can adapt and thrive in the modern landscape.
For full details on the OJA and to view the complete list of winners, visit awards.journalists.org. To subscribe to any of the L.A. Times’ newsletters, head to latimes.com/newsletters.
This achievement not only showcases the Times’ storytelling prowess but also sets a precedent for other news organizations striving to enhance reader engagement through innovative digital formats. The recognition is a reminder of the enduring power of quality journalism in fostering community connections.