OutFAU and its team recently earned five honors at the 75th Green Eyeshade Awards — including a third-place nod for Student News Outlet.

“Congratulations to the OutFAU crew, especially Mary Rasura and CJ Walden for leading this publication,” said Jason Parsley, publisher of OutSFL (OutFAU’s parent organization). “Even in its brief lifespan, you’ve consistently raised the bar. We’re actively seeking a sponsor to ensure this student-run newspaper can keep printing for years to come.”

The Green Eyeshade Awards is the nation’s oldest and most prominent regional journalism competition, recognizing excellence across the Southeast and organized by the Society of Professional Journalists. This year marks its 75th anniversary.

Three of OutFAU’s awards were tied to last year’s special The Body Issue — a project that featured students and alumni appearing nude, or nearly nude, and sharing candid stories about their bodies and self-image.

Lewis de Berry, OutFAU’s former graphic artist, earned third place in Print Design and took first place honors in Visual Storytelling.

The judge lauded de Berry’s vision.

“The design elements in these spreads are vivid and dynamic, with lots of visual play and a compelling and meaningful connection to the content,” the judge wrote. “The images are edgy, but not in your face, and they successfully capture the energy of the subjects in compelling poses. Overall, the design creates a fun platform for the storytelling. Well done!”

Rasura and Walden claimed third place in Special Projects for The Body issue.

Rasura also won second place in Editorial Leadership. 

Rasura, who founded OutFAU, reflected:

“I am honored that OutFAU has brought home so many awards in our first year of publication,” she said. “I am especially proud of winning second place in editorial leadership. Thank you to all the judges!.”

CJ Walden, OutFAU’s current editor, added:

“I’m honored to receive my third and fourth awards during my time with OutFAU. This month marks one year since I joined the publication. I’m very grateful to be a part of — and now lead — such a dynamic and strong team. Thank you to the judges for this award and to Jason and Mary for their guidance.” 

Earlier this year, OutFAU won second place in a special SPJ contest highlighting journalism ethics. Last year, just months after launching, won third place for Best Newspaper in the College Media Association's Apple awards.