David Ono to Receive L.A. Area Emmy Governors Award, Recognizing Decades of Journalism Excellence

ABC7 Los Angeles reporter David Ono is set to receive the L.A. Area Emmy Governors Award, a prestigious honor recognizing his contributions to broadcast journalism, according to the Television Academy. The award, presented by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS), celebrates individuals who have made “outstanding contributions to the television industry and the community,” as stated on the Emmy Awards website.

Who Is David Ono?

David Ono, a veteran journalist with ABC7, has spent over 25 years covering local and national news, with a focus on community issues, politics, and public safety. His work has been recognized by multiple organizations, including the Los Angeles Press Club, which awarded him the 2021 Excellence in Journalism Award. Ono’s coverage of the 2020 presidential election and the subsequent Capitol riot garnered national attention, with his reporting cited by outlets such as The New York Times and NPR.

What Is the L.A. Area Emmy Governors Award?

The Governors Award is one of the highest honors given by the L.A. Area Emmy Awards, which are administered by NATAS. Unlike category-specific awards, the Governors Award is presented to individuals who have demonstrated “a lifetime of achievement and service to the television industry,” according to the academy’s website. Past recipients include former ABC7 anchor John D. Miller and longtime KTLA producer Carol K. Smith.

Why This Matters

The award underscores Ono’s long-standing impact on local journalism, particularly in covering underrepresented communities. His reporting on issues such as police reform and immigration policy has been cited in academic studies, including a 2022 paper published in the *Journal of Communication* that analyzed the role of regional news in shaping public discourse. The recognition also highlights the evolving role of broadcast journalists in an era of digital media fragmentation.

What’s Next for Ono?

Ono is expected to receive the award at the L.A. Area Emmy Awards ceremony on September 16, 2023. While no official plans have been announced, his team at ABC7 confirmed he will continue his role as a senior correspondent. The station released a statement praising his “unwavering dedication to truth-telling and community engagement,” a sentiment echoed by colleagues and viewers alike.