In a historic achievement, Maryland Public Television (MPT) secured a record-breaking 18 Emmy Awards at the 67th annual Capital Emmy® Awards hosted by the National Capital Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS-NCCB). Held on June 21 at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel and Conference Center, this year’s haul marks the highest number of Emmys MPT has ever received in a single competition throughout its more than five-decade-long history. The network was nominated a total of 38 times before ultimately winning in categories spanning sports, education, science, arts, and more. These wins further solidify MPT's reputation as a leader in public television production across Maryland and beyond.
The event recognized excellence in television production from professionals across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., with MPT standing out among the contenders. NATAS-NCCB, which includes over 1,500 industry members, annually honors achievements in various genres and behind-the-scenes roles. This year, MPT's diverse lineup of programs impressed the judges, with award-winning entries including documentaries, educational segments, and artistic features. From environmental storytelling to cultural exploration, MPT showcased its ability to produce high-quality content that resonates with audiences and reflects regional identity.
Among the notable wins was “Inside the CIAA: Impact” in the Sports – One-Time Special category, highlighting the legacy of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association. Another standout was “Racing Rivals: Log Canoes of Chesapeake Bay,” which earned accolades for both writing and editing. The program delved into the traditional racing culture of the Chesapeake region, blending history, sport, and craftsmanship. In the Education/Schools category, two short-form productions emphasized experiential learning through agriculture and outdoor activities, underscoring MPT’s commitment to student engagement and curriculum-aligned media.
The network also made strides in diversity and inclusion, taking home an Emmy for “Artworks: The Art of Strings,” a feature exploring music as a platform for social connection and cultural expression. Environmental coverage remained strong, with multiple awards going to episodes of “Outdoors Maryland” that captured the natural beauty and ecological significance of the Chesapeake Bay area. Additionally, MPT’s technical expertise was recognized in fields such as videography, writing, and editing, demonstrating the depth of talent within its production teams.
As a result of these victories, MPT now holds a total of 229 regional Emmys from 534 nominations since its inception. Alongside its recent national Emmy wins, the station continues to be honored with prestigious recognitions like the Board of Governors Award and Community Service honors. Two of MPT’s broadcast partners also took home Emmys during the ceremony, adding to the overall success of the night. With its continued focus on quality storytelling and educational outreach, MPT remains a cornerstone of public media, delivering compelling programming that informs, inspires, and entertains viewers across platforms and generations.