Melby wins national journalism award

Todd Melby, reporter for the Building Minnesota radio series, podcast and blog, has been awarded a 2006 Sigma Delta Chi award for best radio documentary.

Melby produced Flatlined: How Illinois Shortchanges Rural Students (with Diane Richard) for Chicago Public Radio's Chicago Matters: Valuing Education series.

"The narrative-style writing and use of natural sound hooked the judges from the beginning," wrote the Sigma Delta Chi judges. "The reporters introduced us to many of the story's characters, and capturing sound and interviews on different locations was a plus. Perhaps the most notable aspect of this documentary was the subject — inadequate educational systems and funding. It is an incredibly important — and difficult — topic to cover."

The Sigma Delta Chi awards, which recognize work published or broadcast in 2006, will be presented July 20 at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

“These awards represent the best of American journalism,” said Christine Tatum, Society of Professional Journalists president. “In an age when it is increasingly difficult to differentiate between fact and opinion and news and entertainment, the outstanding work of these journalists is a powerful reminder of the importance of ethical and responsible news gathering that is of true public service. This award winning work is what all journalists should strive to deliver every day.”