For distinguished editorial writing, the test of excellence being clearness of style, moral purpose, sound reasoning, and power to influence public opinion in what the writer conceives to be the right direction, Seven thousand five hundred dollars ($7,500).

Awarded to Alex Raksin and Bob Sipchen of Los Angeles Times for their comprehensive and powerfully written editorials exploring the issues and dilemmas provoked by mentally ill people dwelling on the streets.

Columbia University President George Rupp (left) presents Alex Raksin (center) and Bob Sipchen (right) with the 2002 Pulitzer Prize in Editorial Writing.

Finalists

Also nominated as finalists in this category were: William H. Freivogel of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch for his editorials, passionate and powerful, opposing the nomination and policies of U.S. Attorney General John D. Ashcroft, and the Philadelphia Daily News Editorial Board for its crusade on behalf of the city's neglected parks.