Alaska Professional Communicators Memorial Scholarship


What is the Alaska Professional Communicators Memorial Scholarship?

In 1981, our organization decided we wanted to do something to help people in Alaska pursue their education in our field. The scholarship is given in May, so that students can plan on the money for the fall semester.

"Memorial" means the scholarship is presented in memory of Alaska Press Women members who have died, such as Betzi Woodman, Kay Kennedy, Phyllis Carlson, Jimmy Bedford, Chris McClain, Jo Ann Wold, Natalie Gottstein, Elizabeth Plank and Suzan Nightingale. Their spirit lives on in our scholarship winners.

How do I apply?

The application deadline for 2008 has passed. A new application will be posted in fall 2008 for the 2009 scholarship year.

The APC scholarship coordinator is Connie Huff: chuff@kska.org (907) 550-8464.

What are you looking for in a candidate?

First, we are looking for men and women with promise in journalism or public communications fields, and the likelihood that the student will enter these fields. The scholarship has usually been given to a student beyond freshman year, since often it is difficult to focus on a professional goal when beginning a college education.

Second, we are seeking students who truly needs the scholarship – a student to whom the money would make a real difference.

Third, we are looking for a student who is progressing well scholastically. Grades are NOT the primary consideration. Subjective evaluations by the student's instructors or employers are more important.

The scholarship is open to men and women students majoring in any phase of public communications, including public relations, advertising, radio-television, video, and print. We would consider someone majoring in a field other than public communications who is fairly certain of entering the media profession. We do not limit the scholarship to women. If you have won or competed for this scholarship in the past and are still an undergraduate student, you are welcome to compete again.

What do I submit?

  1. A resume, listing professional and extracurricular job experience. Please state your scholastic level (freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior) and your expected date of graduation.
  2. A complete college transcript, containing all college work whether in Alaska or elsewhere.
  3. A statement written by you, presenting your career goals and explaining why you desire the scholarship.
  4. At least one letter of recommendation from people who know you and your work.
  5. Up to three samples of your work, preferably published or produced (newspaper stories, ads, documented PR campaigns, video tapes, web pages, radio or television programs on tape). The samples are considered optional but will enhance your application.
  6. The Alaska Press Women Memorial Scholarship Form

Submit applications to scholarship coordinator Connie Huff at KSKA Public Radio 3877 University Dr. Anchorage, AK 99508 or at 644 E. 79th Ave. Anchorage, AK 99518