Pamala Pritt Receives Premier Journalist Award
The West Virginia Press Association honored the veteran journalist at the University of Charleston this October.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Awards
The West Virginia Press Association awarded Pamala Pritt the Adam R. Kelly Premier Journalist Award during its annual convention in October 2026. The ceremony took place at the University of Charleston.
Why it matters
The honor recognizes significant contributions to the state's journalistic landscape throughout a career spanning several decades and multiple regional publications.
Established in 1991, the award honors the legacy of former Tyler Star News owner Adam R. Kelly. Pritt previously worked for nine years at West Virginia University and four years at The Register-Herald in Beckley.
The players
Pamala Pritt
She is a veteran journalist who previously served at The Pocahontas Times, The Register-Herald, and the West Virginia University communications department.
West Virginia Press Association
This professional organization supports the state's newspaper industry and maintains a foundation board that oversees various regional media initiatives.
Adam R. Kelly
He was the former owner and editor of the Tyler Star News based in Sistersville.
Ed Given
He is a long-term professional colleague who presented the award to Pritt during the annual convention.
The details
Ed Given presented the award to Pritt following an introduction by Jim Spanner. The accolade reflects Pritt's extensive career history, which began at The Pocahontas Times before she sold her interest in the publication in 2012.
Timeline
The Adam R. Kelly Premier Journalist Award was established in 1991.
Pamala Pritt sold her interest in The Pocahontas Times in 2012.
Pamala Pritt received the award in October 2026.
Culture Shift
The award ceremony follows protocols established by the West Virginia Press Association Foundation bylaws. This recognition highlights the ongoing evolution of local journalism within the state.
Residents in Charleston and across the state can see the continued influence of local media leadership on community transparency. This recognition serves as a benchmark for professional standards within West Virginia's regional press.
The takeaway
Professional awards help maintain industry standards and highlight the importance of local reporting. Readers can support regional journalism by staying informed on the history and legacy of their community news outlets.
Further reading
For more on industry recognition in the area, visit the Awards section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Newsandsentinel.
