The RTDNF Carole Simpson Scholarship supports students who are pursuing careers in radio, television, or digital journalism. Administered by the RTDNA Foundation, the scholarship is part of a long-standing program that has awarded more than $1 million to aspiring journalists since 1970. Scholarship recipients also receive travel support to attend the RTDNA Foundation First Amendment Awards.
Scholarship Details
- Open to college students pursuing careers in radio, television or digital journalism
- Recipients receive complimentary attendance and travel support for the RTDNA Foundation First Amendment Awards
- Recipients have gone on to successful careers in journalism, communications, law, education and public service
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a student of color
- Must be a sophomore, junior or senior at the time the scholarship is awarded
- Must be studying or working in the United States
- Previous recipients of this scholarship are not eligible to receive it again, although they may be eligible for an RTDNA Foundation fellowship in the future
Application Process
- Complete the online scholarship application form with your contact information and journalism experience
- Provide links to three to five broadcast or online journalism work samples hosted on platforms such as YouTube, Vimeo or SoundCloud
- Upload a cover letter describing your journalism experience, career goals, and how you plan to use the scholarship funds
- Upload your current resume
- Submit a letter of recommendation from a professor, advisor, or supervisor
- Review your application carefully and submit all required materials before the deadline
Carole Simpson is a former RTDNA Foundation trustee and the 1996 recipient of the Leonard Zeidenberg First Amendment Award in recognition of her work to protect First Amendment Freedoms. She established the Carole Simpson Scholarship in 1991 to encourage and help minority students to overcome hurdles along their career path in electronic journalism. In a career of notable firsts, Carole Simpson has led the way for minorities and women in broadcasting.
