Guy P. Gannett Journalism Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Maine Community Foundation
Overview
Guy P. Gannett began his career in newspapers in 1921 when he purchased two local papers and combined them to form the Portland Press Herald. Over the decades his media holdings grew; by the time the family sold Guy Gannett Communications in 1998, the company operated three daily Maine newspapers and seven television stations across multiple states.
While still in eighth grade, Gannett added his granddaughter Maddy Corson’s name to the newspaper trust to secure her future role in stewarding the enterprise. In 2000, Corson and her uncle John Gannett used resources from the Guy P. Gannett Foundation (established by Corson’s grandparents) to create the Guy P. Gannett Scholarship Fund. The original endowment was $3 million, making it the largest fund administered by MaineCF. Since its inception the scholarship has supported nearly 150 students, distributing more than $3.2 million in total. Corson’s stated aim for the program is that every Gannett scholar leaves school without debt.
Purpose and eligibility
The Guy P. Gannett Scholarship provides renewable financial assistance to students majoring in journalism or in closely related fields, covering traditional print, broadcast, and electronic media disciplines. Applicants must have completed their final year of secondary education in Maine—either as graduates of Maine public or private high schools or as home-schooled students residing in a Maine community.
Selection criteria
Candidates are selected based on:
- Demonstrated commitment to a career in journalism (evidenced by course selection and extracurricular involvement).
- Financial need.
- Academic achievement.
Recipients are expected to show a growing and sustained commitment to journalism as they continue their education. Gannett scholars are encouraged to seek renewal of their awards during undergraduate and graduate study; the selection committee looks for increased evidence of professional intent over time.
Award amounts, deadline, and application
Scholarship awards have ranged from $1,000 to $60,000, depending on each student’s financial need, academic record, level of study, and engagement in journalism activities.
- Award size: Varies
- Application deadline: May 1
- To apply: Apply online (Gannett Scholarship Fund application)