Albuquerque’s public‑service television station KOAT celebrated a landmark evening on Saturday when it took home five Rocky Mountain Southwest Emmy Awards at the 2026 ceremony. The honors underscore the station’s role in delivering in‑depth, community‑focused reporting that resonates with local viewers.

In the “Special Event Coverage” category, KOAT’s piece “Balloon Fiesta: Uplifting Community” was recognized. The segment, produced by Chris Fullam and Jeffrey Hernandez and edited by Brandon Pruitt, highlighted the iconic Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and its impact on the city’s cultural life.

The station also earned an Emmy for “Historical‑Cultural Long Form Content” with the special “Celebrating 100 Years of Route 66.” Producers Fullam and Hernandez again led the effort, with photographer Patrick Jorgenson and graphic artist Jeff Sargent contributing visual storytelling that traced the historic highway’s legacy across New Mexico.

KOAT’s promotional campaign “Celebrating New Mexico: 100 Years of Route 66” won in the “Promotion‑News Campaign” category. Creative Director Matthew Montoya oversaw the project, while producers Erin Quintana‑Robles and Kevin Maestas helped craft a series of pieces that promoted the state’s heritage and tourism.

Addressing societal concerns, the station’s investigative report “The Secrets of Zorro Ranch” secured an Emmy in the “Societal Concerns Content” category. The late producer T.J. Wilham was part of the award‑winning team, which also included Jason McNabb, photographers Patrick Jorgenson and Audrianna Smith, and producer Meagan Halbardier Moore. The segment examined the controversial history of the Zorro Ranch property and its broader implications for the community.

Finally, KOAT’s true‑crime documentary “The Video Store Murders” was honored in the “Crime‑Justice Content” category. Producers Emily Phillips and Lauren Lee, along with editor Anthony Linton, delivered a compelling account of a local homicide case that captivated viewers and highlighted the station’s investigative rigor.

KOAT’s five Emmy wins reflect the station’s commitment to storytelling that informs, educates, and unites Albuquerque residents. The accolades also reinforce the value of local journalism in preserving the city’s heritage, exposing critical issues, and celebrating community milestones.

Sources: koat.com, flipboard.com