Hampton University Scripps Howard Dean Appointed Chair of WHCA Award Judging Committee

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Courtesy: Hampton University

Hampton University Dean of Scripps Howard, Julia A. Wilson, was appointed chair of the White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) Aldo Beckman Awards Judging Committee for the WHCA annual dinner.

The White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) is a nonprofit organization representing journalists who cover the U.S. President and the White House. Founded in 1914, its mission is to advocate for access to the Presidential administration and promote excellence in journalism. 

“With this big achievement and the possibility of Hampton regaining land grant status, Hampton University is getting recognition for its props and for what we do, which can mean more opportunities for students,” said Jetaime Windbush, first-year journalism major.

Dean Julia A. Wilson has served as the dean of the Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications at Hampton University since 2021. Before being named chair, Dean Wilson served on the Aldo Beckman Award Judging Committee for three years. In her new position, she will be responsible for reviewing submissions, scheduling, and managing the meetings of judges. 

“I am thrilled to serve as a role model for Hampton University journalism students and want them to see opportunities ahead,” said Dean Wilson.

The Aldo Beckman Award for Overall Excellence in White House recognizes a body of work over the course of a year that uses a variety of journalistic tools to illuminate the president and the presidency. 

The award was named after Aldo Beckman, a former award-winning correspondent with the Chicago Tribune and former president of the White House Correspondents' Association, known for his character and journalistic ethics.

The judging committee will evaluate the story selection, sources, fairness, range of journalist skills, subject matter, and accuracy of each applicant’s body of work. The award, which carries a cash prize of $5,000, is now accepting entries.

When asked about Hampton students aspiring to work in the field of journalism, Dean Wilson said, “ I want students to focus on achieving goals and make them come true. Work hard and smart and identify their uniqueness so they can promote themselves.”

In attendance with Dean Wilson will be Jade AbuBakr and Christian Fluellen, two graduating Hampton University journalism students, who will receive $12,000 in scholarships and showcase their work.

“I am committed to Hampton University’s mission and values ,and each day  I live and breathe to promote learning and prepare students for global leadership and service,” said Dean Wilson.