Brooklyn Paper, the flagship publication of Schneps Media dedicated to covering the vibrant communities of Kings County, has been recognized with the coveted Past Presidents’ Award for General Excellence at the 2025 New York Press Association (NYPA) Better Newspaper Contest. This top honor underscores the publication’s unwavering dedication to in-depth local reporting, community engagement, and editorial quality.
The Past Presidents’ Award is among the most prestigious accolades in New York’s journalism landscape, awarded to newspapers that consistently demonstrate superior news coverage, compelling storytelling, and a strong connection to their readership. Brooklyn Paper’s win marks a milestone not only for the publication but also for Schneps Media, which secured its largest haul of NYPA awards this year, reflecting the growing influence of local media in New York City’s boroughs.
In a media environment increasingly dominated by national outlets and digital platforms, Brooklyn Paper’s achievement highlights the importance of neighborhood-focused journalism. Their coverage ranges from grassroots politics and urban development to arts and culture, providing Brooklynites with thorough, trustworthy reporting tailored to the borough’s unique pulse. This recognition comes at a critical moment as local newsrooms nationwide face financial and operational pressures.
Schneps Media’s investment in Brooklyn Paper and its sister publications has helped sustain and grow this essential community resource. The company’s commitment to amplifying local voices and covering stories often overlooked by larger outlets has resonated deeply with readers, advertisers, and civic leaders alike. As Brooklyn continues to evolve rapidly, the role of a diligent, locally rooted press is more vital than ever.
The 2025 NYPA awards ceremony celebrated excellence across dozens of categories, from investigative reporting to design. Brooklyn Paper’s standout performance signals a bright future for community journalism in New York City, serving as a model for how local newspapers can thrive by staying authentically connected to their neighborhoods.