Announcing the 2026 Cardinal John Foley Award Winner

The Catholic Media Association is proud to announce Rob Kaczmark as the recipient of the 2026 Cardinal John P. Foley Award. The announcement was made on June 19, 2026, at the annual Catholic Media Awards and 60th Annual Gabriel Awards event, serving as the capstone to the annual Catholic Media Conference in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

This prestigious award honors the legacy of Cardinal John Patrick Foley, the patriarch of the American Catholic press. As a visionary who championed the Church's entry into the electronic news age, Cardinal Foley proved that professional excellence and a pastoral heart are the essential tools of the trade. The Cardinal John Foley Award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated exceptional excellence and innovation in Catholic storytelling over the past year, finding new and compelling ways to share the faith beyond traditional reporting.

The Winning Innovator: Rob Kaczmark

Nominee: Rob Kaczmark
Organization: Spirit Juice Studios
Medium: Video and Digital Film

Rob Kaczmark’s journey began in 2007 when he founded Spirit Juice Studios with a clear vision to elevate the quality and impact of Catholic video content. Under his creative leadership, Spirit Juice has become a trusted partner to dioceses, ministries, universities, and Catholic organizations nationwide. His work reflects a deep devotion to communicating the beauty, truth, and dignity of the Catholic faith in ways that resonate with both modern and traditional audiences.

Rob’s work is rooted in authenticity, focusing on the inspiring stories of ordinary individuals whose lives reflect extraordinary faith. From Father Flanagan to Gil Hodges, Father Kapaun, and Baby Josephina Maria, he brings powerful narratives to life, preserving their legacies while ensuring they reach and encourage wider audiences.

Why Rob Kaczmark Won

The Cardinal John P. Foley Award seeks out creators who transcend the status quo to reach people exactly where they are. Rob Kaczmark exemplifies this through his multifaceted approach to digital evangelization:

• Exceptional Cinematic Storytelling: In October 2024, Rob celebrated his feature-film directorial debut with the theatrical release of Heart of a Servant: The Father Flanagan Story, successfully introducing the Boys Town founder's legacy to a brand new generation. He is also spearheading the highly anticipated Fall 2026 release of Heaven in Stone & Glass, a documentary hosted by Bishop Robert Barron exploring the sacred nature of French Gothic Cathedrals.
• Engaging the Next Generation: Recognizing the need for vibrant faith-based media for youth, Rob launched Spirit Juice Kids. The YouTube channel has amassed over 1.5 million subscribers, anchored by Juice Box, an online show that utilizes stories, games, and crafts to present Catholic teachings in an entertaining and memorable format.
• Intentional Mentorship: With a background in youth ministry, Rob actively invests in young creatives through the Spirit Juice Studios internship program. He provides weekly lessons, hands-on professional set training, and fully funds interns to create their own passion projects.
• Strategic Educational Partnerships: Under his leadership, Spirit Juice continually advances Catholic education through collaborations with Seton Teaching Fellows, the University of Notre Dame, Catholic University of America, William H. Sadlier, and Ascension Press.

"For nearly two decades, Rob Kaczmark has embodied what Cardinal Foley championed. Catholic communications must be both faithful and excellent."

Continuing a Legacy

Through creative leadership, intentional mentorship, and steadfast service to the Church, Rob continues to shape a culture of media that evangelizes with clarity, integrity, and hope. The Catholic Media Association extends its warmest congratulations to Rob Kaczmark, his wife Kim and their family, and the entire team at Spirit Juice Studios for this well-deserved recognition.