OCEAN COUNTY — A Jersey Shore Online reporter has been recognized by the New Jersey Society of Professional Journalists for Best Coverage of County Government, earning first place in a highly competitive statewide contest and second place for Best News Photography.
Stephanie Faughnan, who has been working for Micromedia Publications since 2021, received the top honor for Best Coverage of County Government in the 2025 Excellence in Journalism Awards for her detailed reporting on how Ocean County officials are allocating funding to address homelessness.
Her work was selected from nearly 200 submissions representing news organizations across New Jersey, New York City and Philadelphia.
Judges cited the reporting for its depth, clarity and public service value, noting its focus on accountability and transparency in local government.
Faughnan’s award-winning story examined policy decisions and funding priorities that directly affect vulnerable residents.
Faughnan said her approach to reporting is rooted in fairness and accuracy.
“Integrity is the foundation of journalism,” she said. “It is essential to present every side of an issue so readers can fully understand the decisions being made in their communities.”
The second award was for Best News Photography on a photo that appeared with a Christmas story the site and newspaper ran in December of 2024.
New Jersey Society of Professional Journalists President P. Kenneth Burns said the 2025 contest marked one of the organization’s largest fields of entries since its relaunch four years ago.
“The level of journalism we continue to see from New Jersey and the surrounding metro areas is exceptional,” Burns said. “Reporters across the state should be proud of the work they produce every day.”
An award ceremony is planned for a future date.
Faughnan has earned multiple honors throughout her career and is known for coverage that highlights the impact of government decisions on local residents.
Stephanie is always open to story ideas – you can email her directly at stephanienjreporter@gmail.com.
