Morgan State University’s School of Global Journalism and Communication (SGJC) has announced Michelle Tyrene Johnson as the recipient of the 2025 Vernon Jarrett Medal for Journalistic Excellence.
The prestigious award, celebrating its tenth anniversary, was presented at noon today, at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.
Johnson is a distinguished public radio journalist at Louisville Public Media in Louisville, Ky. She currently serves as producer and host of “Race Unwrapped,” an award-winning podcast that explores the complexities of race in America.
Johnson is also a Pulitzer Center grantee for her 2019-2020 project, “A Tale of Three Kings,” which she completed during her tenure as a race, identity, and culture reporter at KCUR-FM in Kansas City, Mo.
“What has always driven me the most in my life is my passion for justice and equity,” said Johnson. “My deep love of storytelling and having genuine conversations that provide light and not just heat.”
Outside of journalism, Johnson is a former attorney, an award-winning playwright, and a fourth-generation native of the Greater Kansas City (Missouri) area.
“While I was an attorney for several years, I actually find it the least impactful career I’ve held,” said Johnson. “It’s been playwriting and journalism that have better furthered my values and embraced my talents.”
Johnson will be presented with a check for $10,000 and a bronze medal emblazoned with Jarrett’s image. Additionally, a SGJC student will earn an internship to work with Johnson.
The award is named after the late Vernon Jarrett, a pioneering African American columnist who was also a founding member and a former president of the National Association of Black Journalists.
Jarrett’s career included time at the Chicago Defender, the Chicago Tribune and the Chicago Sun-Times. In the late 1940s, he partnered with composer Oscar Brown Jr. to produce “Negro Newsfront,” the first radio news broadcast in the United States, created by African Americans.
“It is exciting to honor such wonderful work,” said Jackie Jones, dean of the SGJC. “The competition is confirmation that there are still… many journalists out there seeking to make a difference and keep our communities informed through their work.”
