The South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) has recognized the Black Hills Pioneer News organization with the prestigious 2024 Communications and Outreach Experiences in Science (CORES) Award. This accolade celebrates the Black Hills Pioneer’s long-standing dedication to making complex scientific research accessible and understandable to the general public, reinforcing its position as a key source of Black Hills Pioneer news.
The CORES Award, presented annually by the SDSTA, honors an individual, group, business, or organization that demonstrates exceptional and sustained commitment to STEM communication. The Black Hills Pioneer news outlet has consistently exemplified these qualities through its comprehensive coverage.
“For many years, the Black Hills Pioneer news team has delivered engaging and thorough science reporting, particularly highlighting the groundbreaking research conducted at the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF), as well as significant contributions from local universities and institutions in the region,” stated Mike Headley, Executive Director of SDSTA and Laboratory Director at SURF. He further emphasized, “Our community is significantly enriched by the Black Hills Pioneer news’ enduring dedication and their commitment to covering vital issues, including the world-class science happening right here at SURF.”
Letitia Lister, President and Publisher of the Black Hills Pioneer news, expressed the organization’s core values, stating, “At the Black Hills Pioneer news, we firmly believe that education and science are fundamental pillars of a thriving society. Our extensive reporting and special editions dedicated to the long-term and critical scientific work at Sanford, across various fields of research, are a direct reflection of this belief.”
Wendy Pitlick, a veteran journalist with the Black Hills Pioneer news, has been instrumental in the newspaper’s science coverage for many years. Her dedication exemplifies the Pioneer’s commitment to this beat.
Since 2007, the Black Hills Pioneer news has published five special sections specifically designed to provide detailed explanations of the scientific research and educational initiatives at the Sanford Lab. These special editions also cover crucial elements involved in the development of America’s premier underground laboratory. These dedicated sections are in addition to the Black Hills Pioneer news’ regular daily coverage of the Sanford Lab, which has been a consistent feature for approximately 25 years.
Photo credit: Black Hills Pioneer News
Pitlick articulated her commitment to providing accurate and valuable information, “My primary goal is to deliver high-quality, factual information regarding the diverse impacts of SURF and the numerous opportunities it presents at the local, state, national, and global levels. Through the Black Hills Pioneer news reports, I hope to foster a greater understanding and encourage meaningful dialogue about the lab among our neighbors and the wider Northern Hills community.”
Established in 1876, the Black Hills Pioneer news stands as the oldest business in Western South Dakota. As a daily newspaper and comprehensive media outlet, the Black Hills Pioneer news serves numerous communities across Lawrence, Butte, and Meade counties in South Dakota, delivering vital local and regional news alongside its science reporting.
The CORES Award was officially presented to the Black Hills Pioneer news during SURF’s Deep Talks event held on December 12, 2024, at the Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center in Lead, South Dakota, marking a significant recognition of their contributions to science communication and Black Hills Pioneer news reporting.
