Germany Kent Recognized With Prestigious Sigma Delta Chi Award

MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif. - Germany Kent, a South Bay resident has received national recognition from the Society of Professional Journalists with a Sigma Delta Chi Award, one of the most coveted and respected awards given to journalists.

Each year, the award recognizes excellence in professional journalism for outstanding news. Kent was honored for her work in Online Independent Deadline Reporting, becoming the first African-American woman to win in this category. Kent won the award for a story she filmed, edited, produced and published centered around the deadly mass murder that happened at the Borderline Bar & Grill in Thousand Oaks back in November.

Kent's work "Tragedy in Thousand Oaks" is based on the aftermath of the massacre that killed 12, including many college students who lost their lives. Kent's work features exclusive interviews and exclusive footage with survivors and insight about the impact of trauma, violence, crime and disaster. Kent also features content from the funeral for St. Ron Helus, the Ventura County Sheriff's Sergeant who was killed in the line of duty.

Kent joined an elite crowd of journalists representing some of the most respected media outlets from across the nation at a banquet event held at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. to receive the honor. The banquet was hosted by NBC News Chief White House Correspondent Hallie Jackson.

The award commemorates an impressive rise for Kent. This year, there were 77 winners determined from nearly 1,300 submissions, according to SPJ. Contest judges are journalists from across the country, each of whom has established a reputation for journalistic excellence in his or her own right.

Kent has been a freelance reporter in Los Angeles since 2011. She has also found success as a red carpet correspondent and has interviewed countless celebrities, politicians, famed athletes, and newsmakers. Her portfolio consists of interviews with California's former first lady Maria Shriver, John Voight, Gloria Allred, Debbie Allen, and hundreds more. Kent's resume extends beyond that of a journalist and media executive. You've probably seen her on your television without realizing it. Kent has starred in multiple commercials for global brands including Disney, AT&T, Carrier, Coors Light, Coca-Cola, eHarmony, Dove, Target, Verizon, Nike, and many others.

The national bestselling author is committed to social justice initiatives as an engaged community volunteer and ambassador for activism against bullying and cyberbullying. Kent has given talks related to cyberbullying across the country and is a well-known expert on digital marketing. She has been named to many influential digital media lists including Top 100 experts to follow, Top 100 social media marketing leaders, and Top 100 individuals and brands.

Kent's commitment to the betterment of others and for advocating in the community is best illustrated by the local, regional, national and international awards she has received for her humanitarian efforts, including an International Trailblazer Award, a Global Philanthropy Award, and several Humanitarian of the Year awards. Kent has also received a Lifetime Achievement Award from Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Last year, Kent was named by the LA Business Journal as one of the most powerful women making a difference in Los Angeles.

About the awards

The Sigma Delta Chi awards recognize the best in professional journalism in categories covering print, radio, television, newsletters, art/graphics, online and research. The contest is open to any U.S. media outlet and international SPJ members.

Other honorees this year include The Associated Press, NPR, Reuters, The Wall Street Journal, Fortune, Newsy, NBC Nightly News, The LA Times, Nieman Reports, Chronicle of Higher Education, PRI's The World, PBS NewsHour, The Washington Post, and The New York Times.