Similar to their professional counterparts, student journalists devote themselves to reporting on their communities across various mediums. Despite the demanding juggling act of balancing coursework, part-time employment, and journalistic pursuits, many young writers and reporters need to be adequately rewarded for their efforts. To recognize and support the next generation of talented journalists committed to serving their communities, the National Press Club and NPC Journalism Institute have established four scholarships. One of these scholarships, The Wes Vernon Broadcast Scholarship, is open for applications. The Vernon Broadcast Scholarship intends to recognize the excellence of student journalists whose efforts in the broadcast field have given citizens a real opportunity to influence their communities through television and radio coverage. Candidates are selected according to their work on local and regional issues and practical experience in reporting, production, and anchoring. In honor of Wes Vernon, a respected radio journalist and former member of the National Press Club, the Wes Vernon Broadcast Scholarship was established in 2021 to promote diversity innatism.
- The scholarship offers an annual award of $5,000 to a student strongly dedicated to pursuing a career in broadcast journalism. It is also renewable for up to three years, providing $20,000 in support toward the recipient’s educational expenses.
- College students pursuing a career in broadcast journalism at an accredited university in the United States are eligible to apply for this scholarship. This includes students who are currently enrolled as well as those who are in the process of applying to a university.
- The scholarship is offered by The National Press Club Journalism Institute, a non-profit organization affiliated with the National Press Club that provides journalists and communications professionals with practical and innovative training opportunities nationwide.
