Lee Thornton Scholarship
Forecasted
Lee Thornton Scholarship supports college students pursuing radio, television, or digital journalism with financial assistance, training, and industry connections to help them build journalism careers.
Funder: Radio Television Digital News Association
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $2,000, plus covered travel and lodging for Washington, D.C., professional-development activities
Summary: Supports college students pursuing careers in radio, television, or digital journalism through financial assistance and professional development.
Key Information: Apply for only one RTDNA scholarship or fellowship opportunity; multiple applications result in disqualification.
Description
The RTDNA Foundation, the educational arm of the Radio Television Digital News Association, offers the Lee Thornton Scholarship to college students pursuing careers in radio, television, or digital journalism. Endowed through Thornton’s estate, the scholarship honors a journalist and educator who was the first African-American woman to cover the White House for CBS and the first African-American host of NPR’s All Things Considered. Students from Howard University and the University of Maryland receive preference.
The scholarship combines financial assistance with professional development and industry connections. The recipient is invited to the Foundation’s First Amendment Awards in Washington, D.C., and is asked to participate in a day of training and networking with industry leaders. Attendance is free, and RTDNA covers travel and lodging.
