NABJ President Kathy Times said Feeney was chosen over other young journalists because he "represents where journalism is and where it's going."

"He has covered multiple beats in print and lives in a multimedia world," Times said. "His fresh energy and eagerness to learn are perfect ingredients for an emerging journalist."

 

Mr. Feeney, who earned a BA in Mass Communication (Print Journalism) in 2005 at DSU, clearly prepared himself to make his mark on the world during his four years at DSU. He worked for The Hornet Newspaper during his entire academic journey, beginning as a writer his freshman year and then serving as the editor-in-chief during his senior year. He also served on the Student Government Association and was a member of the DSU chapter of the NABJ.

 

The pinnacle of his four years at DSU was being honored with the 2005 Presidential Leadership Award.

 

After graduation, Mr. Feeney was hired immediately as a reporter by the Associated Press. He later wrote for The Record of Bergen County (N.J.) before he moved last year on to his current job with the New York Daily News.

 

Raised in Teaneck, N.J., Feeney said he hopes to be a role model to other up-and-coming journalists.

 

"It encourages me to help other people follow their dream," said Feeney, who also writes the pop culture blog Mfeenz.com. "Working at the Daily News is my dream. I'm living my dream right now."

 

He will receive the award in July at the NABJ annual convention in San Diego.