The Carole J. Meekins Scholarship was created to honor the remarkable career and community impact of Carole J. Meekins, a highly respected journalist who served Milwaukee for more than 25 years at TMJ4. Known for her warmth, integrity, and dedication to uplifting stories, Carole anchored TMJ4 News at 5 and later hosted “Positively Milwaukee,” where she highlighted inspiring people and meaningful work across the region. This scholarship supports college students who reflect Carole’s commitment to compassionate storytelling, community service, and journalism that brings light to the people and places often overlooked.
Through this program, NABJ-Milwaukee seeks to:
- Support emerging journalists who value community-centered reporting and positive storytelling.
- Provide financial assistance to students preparing for careers in journalism and media.
- Celebrate Carole J. Meekins’ enduring contributions to Milwaukee and her belief in journalism that informs, inspires, and connects communities.
Applicants are encouraged to complete the application with care and reflect on how their work, goals, and values align with the spirit of the Carole J. Meekins Scholarship.
To be eligible for the Carole J. Meekins Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a current high school senior, undergraduate, or graduate student.
- Be pursuing or planning to pursue a degree in journalism, communications, media, or a related field.
- Demonstrate a clear interest in journalism through coursework, projects, extracurricular activities, internships, or professional experience.
- Hold a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
- Be enrolled or accepted into an accredited college or university at the time of award disbursement.
- Submit all required materials by the stated deadline.
- If under 18, provide parent or guardian consent.
Applicants of all backgrounds are welcome to apply. Strong consideration will be given to students who demonstrate a commitment to community-focused journalism, positive storytelling, and efforts that advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field.
