Jacob Holmes, whose reporting at the Alabama Political Reporter has earned him respect across Alabama’s political circles, has been named Print Journalist of the Year by the Journalism & Communication Alumni Chapter Board of the Hall School of Journalism and Communication at Troy University.
The honor follows a nomination process earlier this year that invited alumni, faculty, peers and community members to put forward candidates for recognition. After thoughtful consideration and a vote by the JACA Board, Holmes rose to the top.
“Your hard work, dedication, and impact in your field make you such a deserving honoree, and we couldn’t be prouder to celebrate you,” said Robbyn Taylor, director of the Hall School of Journalism and Communication, in a statement announcing the award.
Holmes will be recognized at a gala on Friday, October 3, an event that will also celebrate the 50th anniversary of TrojanVision, Troy University’s student-run television station.
Holmes’ reporting has dug into issues of transparency and accountability in Alabama politics, continuing APR’s legacy of fearless, independent journalism. His work embodies the standards of truth-seeking and persistence that Troy University’s Hall School of Journalism has long cultivated.
“Jacob’s hard work and relentless dedication to truth are being recognized by his alma mater,” said Bill Britt, editor-in-chief of the Alabama Political Reporter. “He reflects Troy University’s excellence in training journalists, and we’re proud to have him on our team.”
Holmes’ recognition is not just a personal honor but also a reminder of the vital role reporters play in ensuring accountability and strengthening democracy in Alabama.
“It is a great honor and unexpected privilege to be recognized by my peers as the Print Journalist of the Year,” Holmes said. “The Hall School of Journalism and Communication at Troy University has developed so many great journalists and is such a foundational piece of the journalist I am today. It is the highlight of my career to have my work noticed and celebrated by my alma mater.”
