Des Moines, Iowa – KCCI, the region’s longtime news leader, brought home the highest honor at the 2026 Upper Midwest Emmy Awards on Saturday, winning the coveted Overall Excellence award. The accolade, presented at the ceremony in Bloomington, Minnesota, recognizes the station’s consistent delivery of breaking news, in‑depth features and community‑focused storytelling.
Recognition from Peers
“Our team works hard every day to serve Central Iowans and tell their stories,” said KCCI News Director Natalie Cabieses. “From breaking news to stories that make you feel something, KCCI covers this community with urgency and compassion. This recognition from our peers is just another reminder of why this team is Iowa’s News Leader.”
Additional Emmy Wins
The station also secured two other Emmy awards in the promotions categories. Producer Leia Bacuyag and videographer Jordy Triana earned the Promotion – News – Image award for the compelling piece “Storm Team 8: Your Team. Every Season. Every Day.” Producer Erin Liu was honored in the Promotion – Non‑news – Program/Image category for the heartfelt segment “Black History is Iowa History.”
State and National Honors
KCCI’s award streak this year includes the Overall Excellence award from the Iowa Broadcast News Association and the 2026 Regional Edward R. Murrow Awards, further cementing its reputation for journalistic excellence across both state and regional platforms.
Impact on the Community
These recognitions reflect KCCI’s dedication to covering stories that matter to Central Iowans—from severe weather emergencies to local cultural milestones. By maintaining a newsroom that prioritizes accuracy, speed and empathy, the station helps keep residents informed and connected, reinforcing the vital role of local media in a healthy democracy.
About the Emmy Ceremony
The Upper Midwest Emmy Awards ceremony was held at the Radisson Blu Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, gathering broadcasters from across the region to celebrate outstanding achievement in television journalism and production.
With 16 Emmy nominations this year, KCCI’s strong showing underscores the station’s continued commitment to journalistic standards that align with the values of faith, family and individual liberty cherished by its audience.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
