Global News funds future journalists at Okanagan College

Okanagan College Media Release

Global News is putting pen to paper in support of future journalists at Okanagan College.

The news and current affairs network has inked a $10,000 cheque to establish two annual awards supporting students in the Communications, Culture, and Journalism Studies program. The awards of $1,350 each will go to a student entering their second year, as well as completing the program.

“Global News is proud to support the future of journalism and the community through these awards,” said Ward Smith, Senior Vice-President of Global News.

“At a time when truth and facts matter more than ever it’s encouraging to see so many young, curious minds steering their education toward a future career in journalism. Our commitment to these students remains a priority to us.”

Global representatives announced the new awards during a Journalism Fundamentals class at the College’s Kelowna campus. The event was an opportunity for students to meet and network with broadcast professionals including Chris Sobon, Managing Editor of Global Okanagan News and Jill Krop, B.C. Regional Director of News for Global News BC.

“These awards will go a long way in helping students focus on their studies,” says Edward Henczel, an Okanagan College Communications Professor.

Henczel says the completion award is particularly significant for graduates, who often have to move to remote communities for their first journalism job resulting in additional costs.

“We’re thankful a local organization is supporting local journalists.”

Henczel turned the award announcement into an opportunity for students to apply their skills, penning their own good news story about the event.

Dave Hale is in his second year of the Communications, Culture, and Journalism Studies program and says the new awards are exciting.

“Having an award presented by a reputable name like Global who recognizes your hard work, that’s motivating, and it gives you confidence in the future of journalism,” says Hale.

Hale knows first-hand the importance of student scholarships and bursaries. He took out student loans to pay for his education, which do not fully cover the costs of the program and living expenses.

“It’s encouraging to know there are people who are on your side,” adds Hale, who is interested in getting into journalism despite major changes to the industry.

“There will always be a need for collecting information professionally,” he says. “I feel like you can make a difference through journalism.”

Okanagan College’s Communications, Culture, and Journalism Studies program is offered in Kelowna and Vernon.