The Eugene C. Pulliam Fellowship for Editorial Writing is a prestigious opportunity designed to provide mid-career editorial writers and columnists with the invaluable gift of time away from their routine responsibilities to engage in study and research. Pulliam Editorial Fellows have the unique opportunity to:
- Explore other avenues that enrich their understanding of critical public interest issues.
- Pursue relevant courses or independent study.
- Embark on enlightening journeys for research and exploration.
About the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ):
The Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ), formerly known as Sigma Delta Chi, stands as the nation’s pioneering organization representing the interests of journalists. Its charter was crafted by William Meharry Glenn and officially founded on April 17, 1909, at DePauw University.
SPJ’s core objectives include championing and safeguarding the First Amendment rights related to free speech and press, advocating for diversity within journalism, and promoting and upholding high standards of ethics in journalism practice.
With around 300 local chapters in the United States, SPJ provides communities with valuable educational programming and opportunities for interaction with fellow media professionals. Its membership comprises over 6,000 media experts. Key SPJ initiatives include the Quill magazine, the annual Sigma Delta Chi Awards, the Legal Defense Fund, dedicated to defending First Amendment rights in court, the Project Sunshine campaign for enhanced access to government records, and the SPJ Code of Ethics, which guides journalists in maintaining high standards of conduct and judgment in their work.
SPJ’s fundamental belief is that public enlightenment precedes justice and is the bedrock of democracy. Journalists, according to SPJ, play a vital role in ensuring that information is freely, fairly, and comprehensively disseminated. The SPJ Code of Ethics urges journalists to “seek truth and report it” while demonstrating “honesty, fairness, and courage in gathering, reporting, and interpreting information.”
Eugene C. Pulliam Fellowship for Editorial Writing: Worth and Benefits:
Distinguished editorial writers or columnists are awarded the prestigious $75,000 Eugene C. Pulliam Fellowship for Editorial Writing. This fellowship empowers recipients to broaden their journalistic horizons and global perspectives. The annual grant can be utilized to cover study, research, or travel expenses, often resulting in the creation of impactful books and other written works, including editorials.
Eligibility for Eugene C. Pulliam Fellowship for Editorial Writing:
Candidates aspiring to be considered for the Eugene C. Pulliam Fellowship for Editorial Writing must:
- Hold a position as a full- or part-time editorial columnist or writer for a news organization based in the United States. Independent opinion writers, who primarily focus on their work or derive the majority of their income from it, are also encouraged to apply.
- Possess a minimum of three years of experience as a columnist or editorial writer.
- Demonstrate exceptional writing and analytical skills.
- Obtain guarantees from their editor or publisher, ensuring that the candidate will be granted sufficient time to complete the fellowship without jeopardizing their employment. Fellows are not required to resign from their current positions.
- Display the ability and intent to publish their work within 18 months of selection. Work must be published within this timeframe if chosen.
- Proficiency in English is mandatory for all entries.
The selected fellow is also expected to submit a post-fellowship written report detailing the use of funds. Each Fellow becomes a mentor to the following year’s Fellow.
Application Procedure:
There is no formal application process for the Eugene C. Pulliam Fellowship for Editorial Writing. Each applicant is required to submit the following documents:
- A cover letter outlining the objectives and scope of the proposed research, along with a timeline for completion and a budget for the stipend.
- Complete contact information, including mailing address, phone number, and email address.
- An endorsement from the editor.
- A one-page professional biography summarizing work history.
- Five examples of editorials or columns.
All application materials should be submitted through the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) application form available here.
For further information, please contact the SPJ Headquarters at 317/927-8000 or send an email to [email protected]. Additional details can also be found on the SPJ website here.
Submission Deadline: June 19, 2023
The Eugene C. Pulliam Fellowship for Editorial Writing is your chance to enrich your journalistic journey and make a lasting impact through your words. Apply today and embrace the opportunity to contribute to the world of editorial excellence.