Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

The Catholic Diocese of Lincoln received three awards from the Catholic Media Association (CMA) during its first year as a member. The awards were presented at the 2024 CMA convention held in Atlanta from June 18-22.

Dennis Kellogg, director of communications for the Diocese of Lincoln, was named Communications Director of the Year. Other recipients in this category included representatives from the Diocese of Orlando, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange (California), the Diocese of Austin, and the Diocese of Pittsburgh.

“Dennis Kellogg’s direct involvement and innovative strategies, from newspaper redesign to a new youth-focused sub-brand, distinguished him as Communications Director of the Year,” stated the judges’ comments on the award. “His initiative to enhance homilies and engage with diocesan leaders over 350 miles further demonstrates his exemplary leadership.”

Kellogg expressed gratitude for his team’s efforts: “This award is a tribute to the work being done by our entire communications team, diocesan leaders, priests and parish and school leaders. Our entire diocese is working to improve communications at every level through a number of initiatives. I’m grateful to be able to work together with everyone in this area.”

Additionally, Kellogg along with Cathy Blankenau Bender and Natalie Bender earned second place in the Best Redesign category for newspapers. Their redesign focused on local columns, stories, photos, front page adjustments, new fonts, and added a “Southern Nebraska Catholics” sub-brand.

“The redesign was exciting for us,” said Cathy Blankenau Bender, editor. “It has helped us better share stories of great things happening in the Catholic Diocese of Lincoln.”

Cathy Bender and Natalie Bender also received honorable mention in the Best Photo Story category for their work at the 2023 Chrism Mass. Natalie Bender reflected on her experience: “Not everyone in our 23,000-square-mile diocese can attend the Chrism Mass in person, so I’m grateful for the unique experience of being close enough to capture the blessing of the sacred chrism.”

The CMA awards competition saw over 1,300 entries nationwide this year.

Founded in 1911, CMA is a professional organization for Catholic publishers and media professionals that provides development opportunities and networking services. This year's convention featured keynote addresses from Bishop Robert Reed and Dr. Paolo Ruffini along with workshops, special Masses each day, and film screenings.