Triumph Over Adversity: Journalism Scholars Receive Prestigious PGA TOUR/NNPA Scholarship

by Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia 01/29/2024

In a celebration of resilience and determination, Victoria Gisel Montanet and Jasmine Hall, two outstanding journalism majors, were awarded the PGA TOUR/National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) $5,000 scholarship during the NNPA’s 2024 Midwinter Training Conference in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

Victoria Gisel Montanet, a broadcast journalism major at Florida Agriculture Mechanical University (FAMU), has overcome significant obstacles, such as the devastating emotional toll of her father’s abandonment. Montanet’s dedication to her educational journey has earned her the recognition and financial support she deserves.

“From an early age, I’ve always been fascinated by the power of journalism and its potential to raise unheard voices, support social causes, and educate the public,” Montanet emotionally stated.

Jasmine Hall, a senior at Bethune Cookman University, is making history as a first-generation college student. Majoring in mass communications and multimedia journalism, Hall embodies perseverance and hard work in her pursuit of academic excellence.

“I’m a persevering, hardworking student who will do whatever it takes to succeed in my education despite the obstacles,” Hall stated.

Both Montanet and Hall acknowledged the $5,000 scholarship money as a vital lifeline in their educational journeys, providing much-needed financial support to fuel their pursuit of excellence.

“The PGA TOUR is thrilled to continue its partnership with the NNPA and Black Press,” declared Adam Loberstein, the communications and content strategy director for the PGA TOUR. “We’re honored to be invited to attend the Mid-Winter Training Conference and, alongside the NNPA, help present college scholarships to these two talented and deserving students. We look forward to working with Jasmine and Victoria.”

The NNPA, representing 250 African American-owned newspapers and media companies that comprise the Black Press of America, recognized the exceptional potential of the scholars, said NNPA Board Member and Mississippi Link Publisher Jackie Hampton, who expressed admiration for both students.

“Victoria has a passion for this field and credits FAM-U for providing her with a tough curriculum, hands-on experience, and priceless mentorship opportunities, all of which have served to amplify her passion and dedication to this field,” Hampton stated.

Highlighting Montanet’s experience, Hampton recounted her time as the entertainment anchor and weather reporter for TV-20 News, showcasing skills in writing scripts, conducting interviews, and producing news segments. Montanet’s commitment extends to community service, where she utilized her journalism abilities to raise awareness about vital social issues at the PACE Center for Girls and the Kearney Homeless Center.

Montanet also had to deal with her family abandoning her and financial difficulties. Hampton emphasized Montanet’s incredible comeback, which included a semester withdrawal overcome with tenacity and hard work, yielding an impressive GPA of 3.8.

In addition to academic achievements, Hall’s experience in filming miniseries for her class, participating in field trips with the Bethune Cookman production crew, and photographing celebrities has contributed to her well-rounded education.

“As a multimedia major, I am a hardworking, dedicated student who will do whatever it takes to succeed in life, ‘Live or Die,’” Hall exclaimed.

Montanet insisted that she has unwavering dedication, “a drive for excellence, and a strong commitment to making a positive impact through journalism.”

“I have consistently demonstrated my potential and capacity to succeed in this field,” she confidently noted.

Click here to see the scholarship presentation by the PGA TOUR and NNPA during a lunch session at the NNPA’s Midwinter Training Conference.