School of Communication, Journalism, and Media Scholarships

We offer a variety of scholarships – based on need, academic merit, career aspirations and other criteria – for incoming freshmen, current students and transfer students.​

This award was established by Ashleigh V. Laabs, ’07 alumna, to support an undergraduate participating in an internship within the College of the Arts and Media.

Ashleigh Laabs is founder and chief growth officer of A. Victoria MAE, a fractional marketing company.

Award qualifications:

  • The recipient must be a rising sophomore, junior, or senior full time.
  • Preference will be given to a student enrolled in the Integrative Public Relations or Media Arts programs.
  • Preference will also be given to those who demonstrate an entrepreneurial spirit, as defined by their participation in extracurricular activities associated with entrepreneurialism, marketing, public relations, media, and the arts.

    • Apply Online

    This scholarship was established in 2008 by James J. '83 and Kallie Bila '85 Michels. James (Jim) and Kallie wish to assist students studying Journalism, Media Arts or Integrative Public Relations in broadening their experiences and knowledge through internship opportunities.

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    Award qualifications:

  • Journalism major
  • At least two semesters of work at CM Life and/or college newspaper as a transfer student
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Demonstrates financial need
  • Renewable, but student must reapply

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    Established in 2006 by David and Kathleen Ling, family and friends. David is a retired professor of the Communication program who has established the scholarship to be awarded to a full-time student who shows special merit in debate and is involved in the debate program at CMU. The award is to be administered by the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid in consultation with the Dean of the College of the Arts and Media and the Director of Forensics.

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    These generous awards are offered to communication students who are active and successful participants in CMU's debate program. These scholarships, which are not based on need, are paid per year over four years. Recipients must maintain a 2.5 grade point average and satisfy the forensics competition requirements outlined by the coaching staff.

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    Award qualifications:

  • Sophomore or higher
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Demonstrate financial need

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    The Diane S. Krider PRSSA Chapter Young Professional Award is a non-need-based award designed to encourage professionalism through continued engagement with PRSSA and involvement in professional networking and learning opportunities. 

    In order to qualify for the award, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Be a signed Integrative Public Relations major.
  • Be pursuing a career in public relations.
  • Be a minimum of a junior (must be a senior by the fall of the award year).
  • Have a grade of C or better in each course in the major including electives and a minimum 3.0 GPA overall in the major.
  • Be a member of PRSSA for at least two semesters prior to receiving the award (current semester can be counted).
  • Be a full-time student during at least one semester of the award year (December graduates are eligible).
  • Be actively engaged in professional activities.

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    Award qualifications:

  • News/editorial student Journalism major
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
  • Demonstrate financial need

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    Established by Emily & Jason Dizik both ’08 Media Arts alums.

    Qualifications:

  • Signed Media Arts Major who demonstrates a financial need.
  • Must have your FAFSA for next year filed by April 1. 
  • Preference will be given to those who demonstrate an interest in sports broadcasting.  
  • Application essay must show an interest in sports broadcasting.

    • Apply Via Email

    Established in 1980 by the estate of Eugene C. Chenoweth, income from which is to be used as an award for undergraduates who shall exhibit excellence in intercollegiate debate competition. The award is to be administered by the Director of Debate and Area Coordinator of the Communication Program.

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    Established by Media Arts Alumnus Eduardo Fernandez in memory of his parents.

    Qualifications: 

  • Signed Media Arts Major 
  • GPA: Media Arts 3.0 and Overall 2.5 
  • Must be active in a Media Arts co-curricular activity.
  • Preference will be given to a student working toward the advancement of minorities in broadcasting.
  • Application essay must have career goals that encourage diversity in the media.

    • Apply Via Email

    Award qualifications:

  • Signed Journalism major/minor on file
  • Full-time student status
  • Journalism GPA of at least 3.0
  • Previous recipients may apply
  • A one-page essay explaining how the student has demonstrated merit and financial need

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    This scholarship was established in 2022 by Brianne Frucci-Tucker '04 and Patrick Tucker '05. Brianne and Patrick met at CMU in the fall of 2002. They married after Patrick graduated in 2005 and ultimately ended up in Grand Rapids, MI. They have long had the goal of funding a scholarship at their alma mater because their decision to go to CMU paved the way for what their lives would become. In addition, Brianne was able to pay 100% of her tuition and fees through earned scholarships, including multiple awards funded by alumni. They are thrilled to be able to help future students in the same way.

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    Tony Cervone was named senior vice president, Global Communications, in May 2014. As GM’s top communications executive, he is responsible for the company’s overall global communications strategy, including the GM Foundation and corporate giving activities.

    Prior to his current position, Cervone served as executive vice president of Group Communications for Volkswagen Group of America. He also was senior vice president and chief communications officer for United Airlines. Cervone was previously at GM from 1999 to 2009 in various executive roles. He began his career at Chrysler Group and DaimlerChrysler AG.

    Cervone earned a bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University where he majored in Journalism. He is a member of the Arthur Page Society, the Public Relations Society of America and The Seminar. He is a board member of The LaGrant Foundation and Detroit Children’s Fund.

    Apply Online

    Award qualifications:

  • Major in news/editorial Journalism
  • Preference for those working at CM Life or Grand Central Magazine
  • Interested in pursuing a career in Journalism
  • Minimum 2.5 overall GPA

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    Award qualifications:

  • Confirmation application intends to pursue a career in Journalism and/or Media Arts
  • Signed major/minor in Journalism or Media Arts
  • Full-time student status
  • Financial need is a major, but not an exclusive, consideration
  • One-page essay explaining how the student has demonstrated merit and financial need

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    Established in 1982 for three students chosen as the best speaker in the annual Gilbert Rau Oratory Contest.

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    Established in 1955 by Karen Heydenburg and Dennis Curry in memory of their parents, with a preference for junior or senior communication majors with a 3.0 or better GPA and an emphasis in oratory/debate or speech education and participation in debate, oratory or other forensic activities.

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    The Integrative Public Relations Alumni Award was created by 2002 IPR alumna Anne Gaertner and is funded by campaign contributions from IPR alumni and friends. The non-need-based award will provide assistance to attend the National PRSSA conference.

    The award provided to each recipient is to be used toward conference fees and related travel.

    Award qualifications:

  • Must be a signed IPR major.
  • Must have an interest in a pursuing a career in public relations.
  • Must have a cumulative and major GPA of 3.0 or higher.
  • Preference is given to members of PRSSA/PR Central who show leadership in the organization or to students who show leadership in public relations activities in the university and community.

    • Established by Stanley and Hilda Vernon in memory of their son Jeffrey Ray Vernon.

    Qualifications: 

  • Signed BCA Major with preference given to Junior, Senior or Graduate Student status.
  • GPA: BCA 3.0 and Overall 2.8
  • Application essay must include an outline of your career goal.

    • Apply Via Email

    Award qualifications:

  • Signed Photojournalism major on file
  • Minimum GPA of 2.5
  • Demonstrate financial need
  • Michigan resident
  • Preference will be given to a student who is a single parent
  • The award may be renewable through the completion of a degree as long as the student remains full-time
  • One-page essay explaining how the student has demonstrated merit with an emphasis on financial need
  • Renewable, but student must reapply

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    Award qualifications:

  • Signed Journalism major, enrolled in courses focused on writing, Journalism or Photojournalism
  • Public Relations majors are not eligible to receive this award

     

    Funds associated with this award may be used for:

  • Travel costs associated with a departmentally-approved internship based outside of the mid-Michigan region. Internships may be domestic or international in nature.
  • Travel costs associated with a curriculum-based study abroad program focused on writing, Journalism or Photojournalism. Qualifying study abroad programs will be approved and managed by the Office of Study Abroad.
  • Travel costs associated with a departmentally-approved independent study project focusing on writing, Journalism or Photojournalism.
  • Funds associated with this award MAY NOT be used to support travel to any conference, convention or meeting.

     

    Renewable up to 3 years after initial award, but student must reapply and meet criteria

    • Award qualifications:

  • Journalism major
  • GPA of at least 2.75
  • Recipient must be participating in an approved student media program or pre-professional organization including, but not limited to: PRSSA, PR Central, CM LIFE, Grand Central Magazine, Ad Club, etc.
  • One-page essay of merit based on the criteria of the scholarship
  • Renewable, but student must reapply

    • Award qualifications:

  • Signed Journalism major form must be on file
  • Student's overall GPA and Journalism GPA will be strong considerations
  • Full-time student status
  • Previous recipients may apply
  • A one-page essay explaining how the student has demonstrated scholarly achievement

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    Named in Memory of Kelly Fitzpatrick (Journalism major) and Bruce Wood (Media Arts major) who were engaged to be married and tragically killed in a car accident shortly after graduation from CMU. 

    Qualifications: 

  • Signed Media Arts Major
  • GPA: Media Arts 3.0 and Overall 2.5
  • Must be active in a Media Arts co-curriculars
  • Application essay must include an outline of your career goal

     

    Available every other year (2023-2024, 2025-2026, etc.)

    • Apply Via Email

    Award qualifications:

  • Photojournalism major
  • CM Life or Grand Central Magazine staff photographer or other suitable media outlets
  • Interest in a visual media related internship
  • Junior or senior
  • Minimum GPA of 2.75
  • Renewable, but student must reapply

    • Established in 2004 by Lawrence E. Abbott '55. The income from the endowment will support a renewable award for a full-time undergraduate student enrolled in the College of the Arts and Media and majoring in speech. Eligible candidates must demonstrate financial need and maintain an overall GPA of 3.0.

    Apply Via Email

    Award qualifications:

  • Signed Journalism major on file
  • Leadership in/out of Journalism Program including groups, events, volunteerism, associations
  • Full-time student status
  • Experience with leadership at CM Life and/or Grand Central Magazine or similar field of study
  • A one-page essay explaining how the student has demonstrated leadership

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    Award qualifications:

  • Journalism major
  • Student must demonstrate the need for financial support for travel to conferences, internships and/or study abroad
  • One-page essay expressing need based on the criteria

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    Established in 2009 by Laurie and Michael J. Morris, '80, '93.  Income from the endowment will equally support three awards for students enrolled in the College of Business Administration, College of the Arts and Media and for students enrolled in a masters program with Global Campus Programs.

    Award qualifications:

  • On-campus students must have successfully maintained a 3.2 GPA.  
  • Documentation will need to be provided to support a GPA of 3.2 was achieved in high school if an incoming freshman is an applicant.  
  • The recipient of the Global Campus scholarship must be pursuing a master's degree and must have received an undergraduate degree from CMU.  
  • It is the intent of the Morris family that this scholarship not apply solely to the financially disadvantaged as defined by Federal and/or State of Michigan guidelines.

    • Apply Online

    Award qualifications:

  • Confirmation the applicant intends to pursue a career in Public Relations
  • Public Relations student participating in an unpaid or underpaid Public Relations internship
  • The internship must either be a graduation requirement for the recipient or the recipient must be returning to academic studies at CMU after completing the internship
  • Journalism or Integrative Public Relations major
  • GPA of at least 3.0
  • One-page essay of merit based on the criteria of the scholarship

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    Award qualifications:

  • Signed Journalism major on file
  • Must currently be junior or senior and enrolled full-time in each semester to be eligible
  • A one-page essay explaining how the student has demonstrated merit

    • Award qualifications:

  • Signed Journalism major
  • At least two semesters of significant contribution as a writer or editor at CM Life
  • Intention to pursue a career focused on writing (not photography, design or broadcast)
  • Avid reader of the news media
  • Non-smoker and non-user of tobacco products
  • Demonstrate curiosity about how things work
  • Demonstrate tough fairness and fair toughness
  • Demonstrate tenacity to do what's right, not what's easy
  • Demonstrate clear writing that cuts through the clutter and gets to the meat of an issue
  • Demonstrate not only high journalistic standards, but also serve as a role model and/or mentor for other Journalism students
  • One-page essay demonstrating above
  • Minimum 3.0 overall GPA and 3.3 JRN GPA

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    The Michigan Association of Broadcasters Foundation offers four scholarships to Media Arts students in the name of Peter B. Orlik, founder and former director of the Media Arts program.

    Qualifications:
    • Signed Media Arts Major, Cinema Arts Major, or Minor (including Cinema Studies)
    • Active in a Media Arts co-curricular activity
    • Minimum Media Arts GPA of 2.5 and an overall GPA of 2.5 

    You must be enrolled in Fall and Spring to be awarded the scholarship. Please include a resume and a professional-looking headshot with your application.

    Apply Via Email

    Award qualifications:

  • Confirmation the applicant intends to pursue a career in Journalism and/or Broadcasting
  • Signed major/minor in Journalism
  • Financial need; FAFSA form must be on file with the Financial Aid Office
  • Full-time student status as a senior
  • Journalism GPA at least 3.2
  • One-page essay demonstrating merit and financial need

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    Award qualifications:

  • Journalism major or minor
  • Junior/senior status with demonstrated financial need
  • Preference given to a student who is first in their family to attend college
  • Preference given to student who has been involved in/demonstrated leadership in a student media or pre-professional organization
  • GPA of at least 2.75
  • One-page essay should address the importance of the news media in an era of "fake news" and citizen journalists

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    Award qualifications:

  • Signed major on file
  • Financial need
  • Full-time student status

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    Ruth Stevens ’80 and her husband, Steve Latus, have established the Ruth Anne Stevens and Stephen P. Latus Endowed Internship Program to assist Central Michigan University students interested in a career in a media-related field to participate in a university-sanctioned internship program. Ruth, who spent 38 years working in higher education public relations, credits Central Michigan University with providing her valuable collegiate experiences and preparing her for this profession. Specifically, the internship she completed in CMU’s public relations office directly led to her first job after college in higher education public relations – and several rewarding subsequent positions in the field. Ruth and Steve understand that internships often offer no or little pay. They intend for this gift to provide one-time awards to help students defray expenses associated with internship participation.

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    Established by Media Arts alumni in memory of Susan Rozman Delia, Media Arts Alumna, the first woman Vice President of ABC & ESPN.

    Qualifications:

  • Signed Media Arts Major with preference given to Junior or Senior status
  • GPA: Media Arts 3.2 and Overall 3.0 
  • Must demonstrate leadership ability in Media Arts co-curriculars
  • Application essay must include plans for an internship and interest in pursuing an electronic media career

    • Apply Via Email

    Award qualifications:

  • Intends to pursue a career in Journalism
  • Signed Journalism major/minor
  • Full-time student status
  • Journalism GPA of 3.0
  • Renewable but student must reapply

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    Named in honor of Media Arts Alumnus Tim Roberts by the County Music Broadcasters.

    Qualifications:

  • Signed Media Arts Major of Junior or Senior status
  • GPA: Media Arts 3.0 and Overall 2.75 
  • Preference given to involvement at WMHW-FM or other radio activities
  • Application essay must include interest in a career in radio (any format)

    • Apply Via Email

    Established by Media Arts Alumnus Gary Lico in memory of his parents, Tom & Audrey Lico. 

    Qualifications:

  • Signed Media Arts Major who demonstrates a financial need
  • Must have your FAFSA for next year filed by April 1
  • Preference will be given to applicants with an interested in media management
  • Application essay must include interest in media leadership

    • Apply Via Email

    Established in 1989 in memory of Wilbur E. Moore, founder of what are now known as the Summer Remedial Clinics and the university's first vice president for academic affairs, for a junior who is enrolled as a major in one of four departments: Communication, Communication Disorders, Media Arts or Theatre and Dance.

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