[National Press Photographers Foundation](https://nppf.org)

February 2027 (Full application deadline, projected)

$2,000–$2,500 one-time scholarship; award paid to university or recipient

Supports U.S.-based undergraduate or graduate student photojournalists who demonstrate leadership and professionalism.

Requires additional essay and non-academic recommendation letter focused on leadership.

--- ## Description The Rich Clarkson Founders Scholarship, administered by the National Press Photographers Foundation (NPPF), honors the legacy of pioneering photojournalist Rich Clarkson. This annual scholarship is awarded to a student photojournalist who exemplifies professionalism, leadership, and a commitment to the values of journalistic integrity. The award aims to inspire and support the next generation of photojournalists who show both talent and a dedication to advancing the field. --- ## Due Dates - February 2027 (Full application deadline, anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Award amount: $2,000–$2,500 (one-time) - NPPF will deposit $2,500 into the student’s university bursar account or mail a $2,000 check to the recipient, as instructed. - Additional benefits: Recipients may receive gift certificates from sponsors for equipment. - Eleven NPPF scholarships are awarded annually; the Clarkson is specifically for student leaders in photojournalism. --- ## Eligibility - Open to undergraduate and graduate students enrolled for the spring semester at a four-year college or university in the United States. - International students residing in the U.S. are eligible. - Applicants must demonstrate significant leadership in photojournalism and/or related activities. - Must adhere to the [NPPA Code of Ethics](https://nppa.org/code-ethics). - Applicants for the Clarkson Scholarship must: - Submit an additional essay on leadership skills and experience. - Provide a second letter of recommendation from a non-academic person familiar with their leadership. --- ## Application Process 1. **Prepare Required Materials:** - Complete the [NPPF CV submission form (PDF)](https://nppf.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/NPPF_Scholarship_CV_form.pdf) (includes essays, academic standing, and experience). - Obtain a letter of recommendation from a professor/lecturer on university letterhead. - Obtain a second recommendation letter (for Clarkson applicants) from a non-academic reference attesting to leadership. - Prepare a portfolio (up to 24 images and/or 10 videos) following [NPPF portfolio guidelines](https://nppf.org/online-portfolio-image-preparation/). 2. **Submission:** - Upload all materials to the [Picter application portal](https://site.picter.com/2026-nppf-college-scholarships). - In the “Biography” field on Picter, type “Clarkson” to indicate you wish to be considered for this scholarship. - Ensure all documents are in PDF format and named appropriately. 3. **Review and Notification:** - A jury of professional editors will review applications. - Recipients are notified via email within a month after the deadline. --- ## Additional Information - Recipients’ portfolios may be published on the NPPF website for educational purposes. - All application materials are subject to verification by NPPF. - Award decisions are final and at the discretion of the NPPF. - Payment of any taxes or expenses is the sole responsibility of the recipient. --- ## External Links - [Rich Clarkson Founders Scholarship Program Page](https://nppf.org/scholarship/rich-clarkson-founders-scholarship) - [NPPF Student Scholarships Overview](https://nppf.org/student-scholarships/) - [NPPF Portfolio Preparation Guidelines](https://nppf.org/online-portfolio-image-preparation/) - [NPPA Code of Ethics](https://nppa.org/code-ethics) - [Picter Application Portal](https://site.picter.com/2026-nppf-college-scholarships) --- ## Contact Information | Name/Role | Email | |-----------------------|----------------------------| | Dr. James Kelly (NPPF Scholarships) | [jkelly@nppf.org](mailto:jkelly@nppf.org) | | NPPF General Grants | [grants@nppf.org](mailto:grants@nppf.org) |

Rich Clarkson Founders Scholarship

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