Two WITF programs win state-wide journalism awards

• By Staff

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    

August 6, 2026   

Two WITF programs win state-wide journalism awards 

[HARRISBURG, PA] – Two WITF podcasts recently received recognition from the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association and Society of Professional Journalists. 

The Keystone Media Awards, sponsored by the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association Foundation, gave The Spark episode Meeting the Hikers of the Appalachian Trail: Stories from the Swatara Trail second place in the Radio II Podcast category. In this segment, The Spark team set out to meet some “thru-hikers,” who were determined to complete the 2,197-mile journey on the Appalachian Trail. 

The Morning Agenda won first place in the Radio II Podcast category. Karen Hendricks hosts, delivering a consistently informative and engaging daily news podcast that keeps Central Pennsylvania listeners connected to the stories shaping their communities. Through clear storytelling, strong journalism, polished production and an accessible format, the podcast transforms complex local news and regional politics into timely, meaningful coverage that provides exceptional value to its audience. 

The Morning Agenda also won a first-place Keystone award from SPJ in the podcasts for a staff of 49 and under category. 

Congratulations to The Spark and The Morning Agenda teams: Asia Tabb, Emma Halsey, David Payne, John Kinzer, Karen Hendricks, Jaxon White, Jordan Wilkie and Fred Vigeant. 

 

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About WITF 

WITF is a trusted, valued supplier of programs and services that both satisfy and stimulate curiosity for residents in every community in the central Pennsylvania region. WITF broadcast services and educational programs reach audiences in over 19 counties in central Pennsylvania. The company comprises public broadcasting stations WITF TV, WITF 89.5 & 93.3, witf.org, Pennon Education and Media Solutions.   

For more information, please contact:   

John Kinzer, john_kinzer@witf.org