Lenoir receives 2026 American Journalism Best Article Award
Assistant professor Lisa Lenoir received the 2026 American Journalism Best Article Award, which honors outstanding research published by American Journalism, the peer-reviewed journal of the American Journalism Historians Association.
Her award-winning article, “The Chicago Defender’s Quiet Power: The Legacy of Mattie Smith Colin — From Covering Everyday Life to Emmett Till’s Death, 1950-1955,” was published in 2025, celebrated for its unique approach to an under recognized yet timely topic. A member of the AJHA judge board praised its “depth added through the frameworks of ethics of care and Black feminist thought.”
In the article, Lenoir’s research examines The Chicago Defender reporter Mattie Smith Colin’s reporting techniques during 1950-1955, especially during the aftermath of Emmett Till’s lynching. Lenoir argues that perspectives like Colin’s need to be mainstreamed.
Lenoir notes Colin’s ambition as her personal guide through her research over the years. She will be honored at the 45th annual AJHA National Convention on Nov. 5-7 in Greeneville, South Carolina.