Network Indiana Won Two National Radio Awards

The National Association of State Radio Networks recognized the team for excellence in journalism.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Substance Abuse

Network Indiana Won Two National Radio Awards

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Network Indiana received two national honors from the National Association of State Radio Networks. The awards celebrate outstanding achievements in broadcast journalism across the country.

Why it matters

These accolades highlight the commitment and persistence of the broadcast team in delivering investigative and sports coverage. The awards reflect the network's dedication to providing high-quality reporting to the residents of Indiana.

Network Indiana secured two national awards out of a competitive annual field of entries from radio networks nationwide. The exact criteria used by the judging panel to weigh individual reporting versus general broadcast excellence remain internal.

The players

Network Indiana

This is a statewide radio network based in Indianapolis that provides news, sports, and information to listeners across Indiana.

National Association of State Radio Networks

This professional organization represents various state-level radio networks and provides annual recognition for excellence in broadcast journalism.

Johnette Cruz

She is a reporter for Network Indiana who received the Story of the Year award for her investigative series.

Kurt Darling

He is a broadcaster for Network Indiana who received the Best Sportscast award for his sports reporting.

The details

Johnette Cruz earned the Story of the Year award for her investigative reporting on the Central Indiana Teen Challenge. Additionally, Kurt Darling was presented with the Best Sportscast award for his work on the network.

Network Indiana received the two national awards on October 7, 2026.

The Big Picture

This win positions Network Indiana as a top-tier performer within the context of the National Association of State Radio Networks annual broadcasting excellence awards. The recognition underscores how regional outlets compete successfully on a national stage for journalistic quality.

This recognition brings increased visibility to the investigative topics covered by the network, including the Central Indiana Teen Challenge. Listeners can expect continued high-level reporting on statewide issues that impact local health and social service landscapes.

The takeaway

These awards demonstrate the high standards maintained by regional radio networks in delivering critical investigative journalism. Readers can benefit from this commitment by continuing to rely on local broadcasts for deep dives into significant state issues.