Columbia Journalism School has announced that Raney Aronson-Rath, the editor-in-chief and executive producer of FRONTLINE, is the recipient of the 2024 John Chancellor Excellence in Journalism Award. With over 25 years in journalism, including roles as a reporter, producer, and correspondent, Aronson-Rath has received high acclaim for her contributions to the acclaimed PBS documentary series produced at GBH in Boston. The John Chancellor Award is granted annually to a journalist recognized for their courage, integrity, and professional achievements.
Aronson-Rath expressed her gratitude for the award, acknowledging the support and inspiration she has received from fellow journalists and filmmakers throughout her career. She emphasized her appreciation for the team at FRONTLINE and her colleagues at GBH, PBS, and CPB.
In her role, she oversees investigative reporting and the editorial direction of FRONTLINE, producing more than 20 in-depth documentaries yearly that address critical global and domestic issues. As Columbia Journalism School’s dean, Jelani Cobb noted, Aronson-Rath has made significant contributions behind the scenes, helping to elevate the PBS series to new levels of relevance.
Under her guidance, FRONTLINE has expanded into theatrical documentaries, including the Academy Award-winning “20 Days in Mariupol,” launched its first original podcast, and initiated the Transparency Project to counter misinformation in journalism. She has also embraced innovative storytelling techniques, utilizing virtual and augmented reality.
Aronson-Rath’s efforts have made FRONTLINE’s storytelling more accessible, reaching millions through platforms like YouTube. ProPublica’s Steve Engelberg praised her as a dedicated journalist skilled in transforming complex topics into compelling films. Other industry professionals echoed similar sentiments, highlighting her intelligence, commitment to ethical journalism, and the enriching editorial direction she brings to FRONTLINE.
An accomplished producer and active member of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences, Aronson-Rath has previously received numerous accolades, including the New York Women in Film & Television’s Enid Roth Award and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting’s Edward R. Murrow Award.
The John Chancellor Award honors the legacy of John Chancellor, a prominent television correspondent recognized for his impactful reporting. Aronson-Rath is set to receive the award, along with a $25,000 honorarium, at a ceremony hosted by Columbia Journalism School on November 14, 2024.