CBC journalist Carol Off's body of work spans award-winning TV documentaries, globe-crossing news coverage, bestselling books and her current gig hosting CBC Radio's As It Happens. (CBC)

CBC journalist Carol Off is joining a prestigious roll call that includes notable broadcasters Knowlton Nash, Joe Schlesinger and Barbara Frum, after being named the latest recipient of the John Drainie Award.

Richard Hardacre, ACTRA's national president, hailed Off as "one of our country's finest and most prolific journalists" in announcing her win Thursday.

He also praised her vast oeuvre, which spans award-winning TV documentaries, globe-crossing news coverage, bestselling books and her current gig hosting CBC Radio's As It Happens.

"Off's journalistic style reveals a deep humanity in the stories she tells about Canadians and people around the world," he said in a statement.

Presented by performers' union ACTRA and named after the celebrated actor who died in 1966, the Drainie Award honours an individual who has made a distinguished contribution to Canadian broadcasting.

"I am thrilled to win, but deeply humbled by the company I will keep on its honour roll," Off said.

Past recipients have also included David Suzuki, Pierre Berton, W.O. Mitchell and Vicki Gabereau.

Off will receive the award at a reception in the fall.