The Baltimore Association of Black Journalists, BABJ, is launching a mentor program for the 2014-2015 academic year for students at two prominent historically black institutions.
“At a time when newsroom diversity is taking a backseat to dwindling budgets, BABJ wants to do our part to ensure Baltimore area journalism and public relations students of color have the necessary skills to compete for internships and job opportunities,” said BABJ President Nicki Mayo.
BABJ has chosen to reach out to students at Morgan State University and Bowie State University for the program’s inaugural class. During this year, the organization will look at how to grow the program.
“We realize the only way to consummate our mission to move forward is to actually do so,” said Maria Roberts, creative director of Written Word Communications and chairwoman of the BABJ Mentor Program.
The mentors participating in the program amassed almost 100 years of combined professional expertise within journalism, public relations and various media-related professions.
More information about the BABJ Mentor Program can be found by clicking here.
Ten students will be selected for the program. Applications must be electronically sent or post marked by Friday, Sept. 26. The program will launch in October.