Georgetown University Receives Scholarship Grant for Journalism Students
Orfalea Family Foundation bestows a grant to students in financial need studying investigative journalism

Washington, D.C. – The Georgetown University Master in Professional Studies (MPS) in Journalism program received a scholarship grant from the Orfalea Family Foundation for students with financial need wanting to pursue investigative journalism.

“The MPS Journalism program strives to create investigative reporting opportunities through innovative course offerings,” said Robert Manuel, Dean of the School of Continuing Studies.  The program plans to award ten individual scholarships to students enrolled in the program who are interested in investigative journalism and seeking financial assistance.  Students must complete and submit the scholarship application by March 31, 2009 to be awarded funding for the summer and fall 2009 semesters. 

 “At a time when the journalism industry is undergoing severe scrutiny and pressure, scholarship support sends a clear message to our students and the journalism community at large that journalism still matters.  Investigative journalism is among the most difficult types of journalism to practice.  It requires great skill, persistence and even courage.  We are grateful to the Orfalea Family Foundation for having the vision to recognize what matters,” said Barbara Feinman Todd, Associate Dean for Journalism.

“Strong journalism is the cornerstone of true cutting edge news.  We need to continue to grow this field and recognize Georgetown’s leadership role in preparing students with the skills needed to succeed,” stated Natalie Orfalea, co-founder of the Orfalea Family Foundation. 

About the Orfalea Family Foundation

The Orfalea Family Foundation, established in 2000, is a private nonprofit foundation that serves and reflects the personal choices of the Orfalea Family.  The foundation supports collaborative initiatives and entrepreneurial partnerships that promote educational development and create sustainable solutions in the areas of early childhood education, education, youth development, and critical community needs. 

About Georgetown University

Georgetown University is the oldest Catholic and Jesuit university in America, founded in 1789 by Archbishop John Carroll.  Georgetown today is a major student-centered, international, research university offering respected undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in Washington, DC, Doha, Qatar and around the world. For more information about Georgetown University, visit www.georgetown.edu.