by Quinn Welsch
Horizon Reporter
Kareem Khalics Bryant, former Horizon editor and reporter, was awarded a $2,000 scholarship for excellence in journalismon May 19 at a banquet hosted by the Society of Professional Journalists . The SPJ is an organization dedicated to the education and empowerment of journalists worldwide.
In his letter for recommendation, Toby Sonneman, journalism instructor and Horizon advisor wrote, “Kareem has had rich and diverse life experience that makes him savvy about people and situations, yet he still retains an open mind. This balance, along with the inquisitiveness that every good reporter needs, makes him an excellent interviewer and reporter. He has a strong work ethic and his reporting is thorough and accurate.”
Bryant, who is also a local musician and veteran, has plans to attend Western this fall. Sharon Salyer, SPJ scholarship chair wrote in an email last year “We look for students with a record of accomplishment as journalist and who have an interest in pursuing communications as a career
Last year, Matt Benoit, another former Horizon staff member was awarded the scholarship in 2011. Western’s journalism program is one that is highly rated among SPJ officials. Western won 22 of the 101 Mark of Excellence awards given to four-year college students for 2011 in the region. SPJ’s Region 10 includes Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington.
For a list of Bryant’s stories see the links below: