Deadline nears for CNN competition

Students who plan to enter into CNN’s “Black In America 2” iReport contest only have 2 days left. The deadline for entries is April 10.  Submissions must be a one to three-minute video essay based on issues and challenges facing the black community.

Students who enter will have the opportunity to win a trip to the Essence Music Festival in New Orleans or a flip video miniHD camcorder.

During the spring semester of 2008, CNN kicked off its first “Black in America” Historically Black College & Universities tour at FAMU. The seven-university tour included iReport contests in which one student from each university was chosen to compete for a grand prize.

Jermaine Fletcher, a 2008 School of Journalism & Graphic Communication graduate and winner of CNN’s FAMU iReport contest, encourages students to enter this year’s contest.

“[Students] provide a voice and perspective that isn’t heard or seen on a regular basis,” said Fletcher, 23, a Richmond, Va., native.  “To say something is to give your generation a voice.”

Dorothy Bland, director of the division of journalism, said she hopes student participation will match or exceed last year’s. She also said the contest would be a worthwhile experience.  

“I sincerely hope students will have a strong showing again this year,” Bland said. “The international exposure is incredible. This is CNN.”

This contest is open to all students. For contest rules or to submit an iReport visit www.cnn.com/biacontest.