Documentary Screening
CMA’s Spring National College Media Convention will feature a screening of a documentary titled “Steal This Story, Please!” about independent journalist Amy Goodman, host of “Democracy Now!” In the film, Oscar-nominated filmmakers Carl Deal and Tia Lessin create a portrait of journalism’s power - and peril - in an era of corporate control and political attacks on truth. “Democracy Now!” is a daily, global independent news hour. Goodman’s co-host on the program is fellow award-winning journalist Juan González.
The documentary will be screened from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, March 5, at the Spring Convention. A discussion with the filmmakers will follow the screening.
Apple Awards
You may still submit entries for the 2026 David L. Adams Apple Awards, the “Best of Show” competition associated with CMA’s Spring National College Media Convention in New York City. The Apple Awards are named for the event’s host city—The Big Apple— and recognize excellence in student media, including newspapers, magazines, broadcasts, websites and more. The awards are judged by media professionals and provide excellent opportunities for student outlets to be recognized for the quality of their work during the academic year. Winners will be announced during the closing ceremony of the spring convention.
Student work completed between March 1, 2025, and Feb. 12, 2026, is eligible for the competition. Additional details can be found here, and complete entry instructions can be found here. Apple Awards entries are submitted via the Better BNC website. The cost is $20 per entry. The entry deadline is 11:59 p.m. ET on Thursday, Feb. 12.
Submit Entries Here
Keynote Announcement
Matt Shortis
New York-based sports journalist Matt Shortis has signed on as a speaker for the Spring Convention’s “Keys to the Game” keynote panel set for 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 5. Shortis is in his 20th year working in professional sports in the New York market. He is currently the remote producer and engineer for New York Yankees radio broadcasts airing on WFAN in New York and across the New York Yankees Radio Network. Throughout his career, Shortis has covered World Series, Super Bowls, Stanley Cup Playoffs, NBA Playoffs, and U.S. Open Golf and Tennis majors. He has also spent years behind the mic as a play-by-play announcer for MSG Varsity Network and Lax Sports.
Shortis and other members of the panel (more announcements coming soon!) will share insights and advice gleaned from their successful careers in sports media. A Q&A session will follow the keynote.
Preview Event Schedule Here
Event Registration
It's not too late to register for the convention, where you will join college media advisers and student journalists from across the country for hands-on training, fresh ideas and meaningful connection. The cost is $200 for students and $215 for CMA-member advisers. Non-member registration is $285.
Register Here
For questions about this event, email [email protected].
If you have any questions or concerns, please email us at [email protected].
