AMHERST, N.Y. – Cathaleen Curtiss, director of experiential and creative learning at Daemen College and an award-winning photojournalist, has received this year’s Morris Berman Citation from the National Press Photographers Association (NPPA).

The Morris Berman Citation is given to individuals or organizations for special contributions that have advanced the interests of photojournalism. Curtiss is being recognized for her dedication and untiring work to revive and modernize the NPPA’s Monthly News Clip Contest, which she chairs.

“I am truly honored to receive this citation from the NPPA for a project that celebrates the daily work of photojournalists worldwide,” said Curtiss, who joined Daemen in 2012. “My work in higher education has opened up a new opportunity for me to use my professional background and skills to enhance the learning experience for Daemen students.”

An accomplished photojournalist and editor, Curtiss’ photography career has included positions at The Washington Times, AOL Media and VP Global Photography, among other organizations. Her professional work has garnered several honors, including Photographer of the Year presented by the White House News Photographers Association (WHNPA), AOL Time Warner Hero’s Award, induction into the Central Michigan University Journalism Hall of Fame, and an NPPA Special Citation.

Curtiss, a frequent speaker at photography programs and workshops, serves on the National Press Photographers Foundation Board of Directors, and is a member of the NPPA and the WHNPA.

She earned a master’s degree in executive leadership and change from Daemen, and a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Central Michigan.

Curtiss resides in East Amherst.