The next generation of journalists is on the rise as universities all-around work to shape a more diverse future to present equal opportunities for all.

As part of a commitment to establish more equity, diversity, and inclusion, the Scripps Howard Foundation has pledged to award $600,000 to institutions of higher learning to advance or create journalism programs that support high school students on their career paths in media.

“Advancing equity, diversity and inclusion within the journalism industry is a priority of the Scripps Howard Foundation, its benefactors and its parent company, The E.W. Scripps Company,” said Scripps Howard Foundation President and CEO Liz Carter. “We know the industry has a long way to go toward hiring talent and editorial staff that reflects the make-up of its increasingly diverse audiences. We believe these programs, with their emphasis on mentorship and real-world reporting experience, are an important step toward that goal.”

The Foundation and its parent company, Scripps, have committed to increasing diversity in journalism through a variety of programs as outlined in the Scripps’ equity, diversity, and inclusion approach, which can be found here.

According to a press release, the foundation will host a competitive application process that selects two institutions, who will each receive $100,000 per year for the next three years.

Scripps Howard Foundation’s generous gift — funded by Eli and Jaclynn Scripps and Jonathan and Brooke Scripps — is seeking to support two college programs that will:

- - Introduce high school students of diverse socio-economic, racial and ethnic backgrounds to journalism through interactive programming and reporting experience
  - Legitimize and amplify student voices by providing a platform to share their stories
  - Create relationships and open educational pathways that potentially lead to careers in journalism
  - Provide ongoing access to mentors and professional support in the field of journalism
  - Bring together a community of organizations and individuals – including universities, news outlets and high schools – to support the development of program participants

The deadline for universities to submit a Letter of Intent to the foundation is Sept. 15, 2020. The Foundation will then review responses and invite a select group to respond to a full Request for Proposals.

The programs are expected to launch by the 2021-2022 academic year.

For more information on the Scripps Howard Foundation and their new initiative, click here.

Scripps Howard Foundation

Sign up for our daily Newsletter.