The Florida A&M chapter of the association of black journalists was nominated for student chapter of the year at the National Association of Black Journalists Convention in Philadelphia.
FAMU-ABJ has been nominated each year since being awarded the title in 2008. The chapter has continued to be nominated for their participation in student media boot camp, professional development workshops and mentor scholarship programs with FAMU’s Developmental Research School.
2010-2011 FAMU-ABJ President Markia Butler says she is very proud of her chapter’s contribution to the national association. Butler says that the chapter nearly doubled their number of paid members to 67. They have also built a chapter website and expounded on its brand by hosting several fundraising events throughout the school year.
However, this year’s nomination came at a special time as both the outgoing a National President, Kathy Times, and the National Student representative, Georgia Dawkins, are both graduates of School of Journalism & Graphic Communication (SJGC).
Nonetheless, FAMU-ABJ did not beat the University of Georgia, which was named student chapter of the year at the opening ceremonies of the three-day convention, the largest gathering of minority journalists.
UGA was honored for the versatility of its members and dedication to community service. Members include those majoring in Advertising, Broadcast news, Magazine and Public Relations. They have also held bi-weekly events and a weekly mentorship program at a local middle school.
Former FAMU-ABJ Vice President of Print Faran Foy said, “I am very happy for the winning school and the work of their chapter.”
North Carolina A&T was also nominated for the honor.