Every year the San Diego Writers Festival hand-picks storytellers of merit who have made lasting contributions to the world of story. From our hearts to yours—we thank you. Welcome to our family.

2025 Award Winners

Dawn Tripp, Historical Fiction Writer of the Year

Hank Phillippi Ryan – Thriller Writer of the Year

Ed Begley Jr. – Living Legend Award

Tembi Locke – Memoirist of the Year

Leslie Zemeckis – Documentary of the Year

Matt de la Peña – YA Writer of the Year

Jill Badonsky – Local Treasure Award

Grant Oliphant – Humanitarian of the Year

Greg Mania – Humorist of the Year

Dr. Willie Parker – Nonfiction Writer of the Year