The Press Club of Southeast Texas presented its annual donation to the Lamar University Foundation, Sept. 26.
The club has awarded a scholarship annually since 1996 to an outstanding student in the field of communication and media. Past winners include professionals in television, print and public relations, as well as many other professional fields.
This year’s Press Club of Southeast Texas Memorial Scholarship winner is Mattie Hamilton, who said the scholarship will allow her to continue her academic and professional pursuits.
“With this scholarship, I am able to further my educational career in a multitude of different ways,” she said. “This allows me to continue to pursue my dream of inspiring others through communication by giving me a head start on my journey into graduate school. With this scholarship, I am also able to fund my travels to a national conference where I hope to make a change in the field of communication research.”
Golden Wright, interim dean of the College of Fine Arts and Communication accepted the donation.
“It is wonderful to have great organizations like the Press Club of Southeast Texas that support Lamar University and its student body,” he said. “The Press Club has a long history of aiding students like this year's recipient, Mattie Hamilton. The College of Fine Arts and Communication is so thankful for their continued support through funding and opportunities.”
The Press Club Memorial Scholarship is funded by an endowment and the club raises funds annually through its Excellence in the Media contest and awards banquet, held each June, and through memberships.
“Students are the key to a vital and professional media landscape,” Andy Coughlan, Press Club president, said. “The club takes seriously its obligation to nurture the next generation of media professionals. In the ever-changing media landscape, education and good practices have never been more important.”
To become a member, visit pressclubofsoutheasttexas.org.