The Prizes

The annual Ridenhour Prizes recognize those who persevere in acts of truth-telling that protect the public interest, promote social justice or illuminate a more just vision of society. These prizes memorialize the spirit of fearless truth-telling that whistleblower and investigative journalist Ron Ridenhour reflected throughout his extraordinary life and career. Each Prize carries a $10,000 stipend.

Courage

The Ridenhour Courage Prize is presented to an individual in recognition of their courageous and life-long defense of the public interest and passionate commitment to social justice.

Book

The Ridenhour Book Prize honors an outstanding work of social significance from the prior publishing year. The prize also recognizes investigative and reportorial distinction.

Truth-Telling

The Ridenhour Prize for Truth-Telling is presented to a citizen, corporate or government whistleblower, investigative journalist, or organization for bringing a specific issue of social importance to the public’s attention.

Documentary Film

The Ridenhour Documentary Film Prize is given to a documentary film that in the view of the judges best reflects the legacy of Ron Ridenhour–journalist, whistleblower, truth-teller and social activist. The Prize seeks to recognize a documentary that defends the public interest, advances or promotes social justice, or illuminates a more just vision of society.

Recipients

2024

Lea Ypi

Book Prize
2022

Heather McGhee

Book Prize
2021

Claudio Saunt

Book Prize
2020

Chanel Miller

Book Prize
2019

Eliza Griswold

Book Prize
2018

Lauren Markham

Book Prize
2017

Heather Ann Thompson

Book Prize
2016

Jill Leovy

Book Prize
2015

Anand Gopal

Book Prize
2014

Sheri Fink

Book Prize
2013

Seth Rosenfeld

Book Prize
2012

Ali H. Soufan

Book Prize
2011

Wendell Potter

Book Prize
2010

Joe Sacco

Book Prize
2009

Jane Mayer

Book Prize
2008

James D. Scurlock

Book Prize
2007

Rajiv Chandrasekaran

Book Prize
2006

Anthony Shadid

Book Prize
2005

Adrian Nicole LeBlanc

Book Prize
2004

Deborah Scroggins

Book Prize