The Kentucky Kernel swept the contest at the 2017 Kentucky Press Association Winter Convention Friday night at the Marriott East in Louisville. 

The student-run newspaper was the recipient of 35 awards in 23 photo, print and social media categories, including Best Breaking News Coverage and Best Picture Essay, as well as a first-place honor for General Excellence.

The three-day convention also included professional development panels and workshops for career and student journalists, such as seminars on design, sexual assault and investigative reporting.

“Kernel students have worked hard this year and last year, and that work has sometimes resulted in a big spotlight shining on everything they did. I’m thrilled that professional judges recognized that work,” student publications adviser Chris Poore said. “I’m even more excited to see what Kernel students are going to do next.”