March 29, 2022 — Prison Journalism Project (PJP), a national initiative that trains incarcerated writers to be journalists and publishes their stories, has received an Award of Excellence from the Society of News Design for the front page design of its newspaper PJPxInside. Designed by Cait Palmiter and edited by PJP Director Kate McQueen, the award-winning issue of PJPxInside was one of approximately 800 out of 3,500 entries to be honored by the 43rd edition of SND’s Best of Print News Design competition. Top winners of the competition include the New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, National Geographic and Politico Europe.
“We are thrilled by this recognition, not just of this inaugural issue of PJPxInside, but also of Cait Palmiter’s exceptional talent in newspaper layout design,” said McQueen. “Her professionalism, creativity and sensitivity set a remarkable example for the publication of stories by incarcerated journalists and truly elevate their writing.”
“I saw the potential to reach an audience that is walled off from mainstream society — incarcerated people themselves — through a design that was bold and modern, yet inviting,” said Palmiter. “Moreover, I wanted this cover to challenge us all to see the strength and dignity of their experiences and words with the same respect as we would any other serious journalist.”
About Prison Journalism Project
Prison Journalism Project is a national, independent, nonpartisan initiative that trains incarcerated writers in the tools of journalism and helps them reach an outside audience via their own publication as well as through partnerships with mainstream media organizations.
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