Ben Hensley, right, interviews James Alves with Able Inc. in October 2024. Photo by Cecilia Lopez

Business Journal reporter Ben Hensley was a Best of Show winner of the National Alliance of Area Business Publication’s (AABP) Editorial Excellence Awards.

The AABP represents business-to-business publications from across the U.S., Canada and Australia. The Editorial Excellence Award winners were announced Friday during the AABP’s annual conference in Ottawa, Canada’s capital city.

Hensley was recognized in the “Small” category among newspapers of similar circulation as the Journalist of the Year — a new category honoring reporters who go above and beyond to present the news in interesting ways.

Hensley is the most active reporter on our social media team, producing some of the most engaging posts. He also covers subjects including health care, retail, technology and nonprofits.

“This winner is the definition of a multi-media journalist. He deftly swings from writing features on cause-driven nonprofits to covering young entrepreneurs to posting an Instagram video on a retail store opening,” according to a judge’s comment. “He gives the audience the human angle, pared with strong writing and a light touch.”

In addition to Best of Show honors for Journalist of the Year, The Business Journal also took home silver awards in the following categories (including judge’s comments):

Best Scoop

“Layoff notices for 171 Cargill workers ahead of Fresno meat plant sale”; John Lindt, Gabriel Dillard

“This reporting offers a clear account of the impending layoffs at Cargill’s Fresno plant, providing essential context on the sale and the implications for its workers. The article excels in balancing the economic implications with the human impact by highlighting both corporate developments and community consequences. Thorough sourcing and attention to detail combine to give readers a well-rounded view of the transition.”

 

Best Feature Story Series

“Journey into AI”; Gabriel Dillard, Frank Lopez, Dylan Gonzales, Ben Hensley

“The biggest brains in business are focused on AI right now, and this series offers accessible and actionable advice from the community’s most innovative leaders. Each installment is expertly written to provide something new for everyone, from the readers looking to get their feet wet to the early adopters ready to use AI to transform their operation.”

 

Best Overall Design — Small Tabloids

The Business Journal, Fresno; Gabriel Dillard, Cecilia Lopez

“The design combines bold headlines with engaging photography and art direction to deliver strong moments of visual impact. A complex but well-executed front-page grid, creative story-specific design elements, and thoughtful color coordination across typography and imagery all communicate with clarity and flair.”