Bob Stevens Memorial Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Garden State Scholarstic Press Association
Introduction
The Bob Stevens Memorial Scholarship recognizes an exceptional high school journalism student who has shown strong commitment to their school newspaper or yearbook, even if they do not plan to major in journalism in college. The award, co-sponsored by the New Jersey Newspaper Foundation, provides $2,000 to be applied toward college expenses.
About Bob Stevens
Bob Stevens was a long-serving teacher and the adviser of the Highland Fling at Highland Park High School. He was a founding member of the GSSPA and served as the organization’s first president. Following his passing, the GSSPA established this scholarship to honor his legacy and support a student journalist from a GSSPA member school.
Award details and announcement
- Scholarship amount: $2,000, payable to the recipient after the GSSPA receives a copy of the winner’s first college tuition payment.
- Judging: Submissions are evaluated by an independent panel selected by the New Jersey Newspaper Foundation.
- Winner announced at the Spring Advisers’ Conference.
How to nominate and apply
Each school’s faculty adviser should select one student who best meets the Eligibility Requirements and Criteria below. The adviser and nominee then compile a portfolio showcasing the student’s strongest journalism work. Applications must be received or postmarked by Feb. 7.
Adviser membership requirement
To submit a nominee, the student’s faculty adviser must be a GSSPA member. Annual membership costs $25. See the Membership page for additional details.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Bob Stevens Memorial Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following:
1. Be a graduating senior with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale.
2. Have at least two years of involvement in high school journalism.
3. Be the sole nominee submitted by their high school (only one nominee per school).
4. Have a faculty adviser who is a current GSSPA member.
5. Ensure the entry is received or postmarked by the Feb. 7 deadline.
Selection Criteria
Nominees will be compared against one another based on the quality of their work and evidence of the following qualities:
- Versatility: Ability to cover a wide range of topics with equal competence.
- Responsibility: Demonstrated thorough research and adherence to ethical reporting standards.
- Inquisitiveness: Initiative in pursuing and investigating issues important to the school and local community.
- Skill: Consistent production of well-crafted, creative journalism.
The submitted portfolio should reflect a sustained commitment to student journalism throughout the nominee’s high school career.
Additional information
Please review the full application packet for submission instructions and required materials.