(BLACK PR WIRE)--WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Acel Moore, a founder of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), will receive the organization's Lifetime Achievement Award, the Board of Directors announced at its spring meeting.

Moore is a legendary columnist, writer and senior editor, who has had an amazing impact on American journalism for more than 50 years. He began his career with The Philadelphia Inquirer as a copy clerk, then became an editorial clerk and worked his way up through the editing and reporting ranks to become editor emeritus. Moore won the Pulitzer Prize in 1977 for local investigative reporting for a series on the abuse of inmates at Fairview State Hospital.

"Acel has had an impressive career in journalism, spanning decades and achieving distinction at the highest levels," said NABJ President Kathy Y. Times. "Founder Moore is a role model and has set the standard for excellence in our profession; a true giant, he has paved the way for many others who follow behind him. He is most deserving of our organization's highest honor."

Among his crowning achievements, Moore is one of the three original founders - with Claude Lewis and Chuck Stone - of the organization that became NABJ. The advocacy organization has grown into a flourishing national association, impacting the careers of thousands of black journalists.

"From the moment I met Acel Moore nearly 37 years ago, he encouraged me to reach for the highest journalistic goals possible. He has always been an advocate for diversity; inspiring many young journalists along the way. I am very proud of Acel being selected for this honor," said Sandra Long, fellow NABJ Founder and Vice President/Editorial Product Development for Inquirer, Daily News and philly.com.

This summer, Moore will join other top honorees at the Salute to Excellence Awards, the Miami Herald's Jacqueline Charles for Journalist of the Year, and Major League Baseball's Claire Smith, a former Inquirer sports columnist and editor who will receive the Legacy Award. The Salute to Excellence Awards Gala recognizes journalism that best covers the black experience or addresses issues affecting the worldwide black community.

NABJ's 36th Annual Convention and Career Fair is scheduled Aug. 3-7, in Philadelphia. For information, ticket sales, and registration, please visit us at www.nabj.org.