EPA Recognizes Young Journalists

EPA loves to recognize and encourage young talent, and we do that through the Emerging Journalist Awards. We had two recipients this year.

The first award went to Sarah Wontorcik, a writer for Cru, who was nominated by longtime EPA member and past president Mark Winz. Wontercik interned with Cru for two years before joining the Cru writing team full-time.

Even as an intern, she showed her skills by winning a first-place Higher Goals award in EPA’s Photo Feature category.

Winz wrote, “Sarah has shown skill, character, and personal growth that reflect well on her, and on our team.”

Wontercik was unable to attend the convention. Her award was sent to her.

The second award was presented to Calvin Cockrell with The Christian Chronicle newspaper. Cockrell was nominated by Bobby Ross Jr. of The Christian Chronicle.

Ross said, “There’s nothing that Calvin can’t do.”

He started out four years ago as a part-time writer, editor, and social media manager. He was finally hired full-time this past year as managing editor.

Besides newswriting, he helps coordinate coverage strategy, contributors, web publication, and print publication. He produces a weekly email newsletter along with social media posts.

Posted June 2, 2026