The Thomas F. Mulvoy, Jr. Scholarship and Young Journalists Fellowship Program — 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
The Edward W. Forry and Mary Casey Forry Foundation for Community Journalism is proud to launch its inaugural Forry Foundation Fellowship Program for aspiring young journalists in Boston.
This year’s inaugural program is paired with the Thomas F. Mulvoy, Jr. Young Journalist Scholarship, a $5,000 grant that will be awarded to this year’s fellow.
The deadline to apply is Friday, April 10, 2026. A decision will be made by Friday, April 24, 2026.
(We anticipate adding fellowship slots and additional scholarship opportunities in future years.)
Created to expand opportunity and strengthen the future of local news, the FFCJ Fellowship provides emerging reporters with hands-on newsroom experience, professional mentorship, and meaningful opportunities to tell the stories of Boston’s neighborhoods.
Rooted in the legacy of the Dorchester Reporter, the Fellowship reflects more than four decades of community journalism dedicated to informing residents, elevating local voices, and strengthening civic life.
Our goal is simple: to help talented young journalists launch lasting careers while serving the communities they call home.
What makes the Forry Foundation Fellowship different?
Fellows will be based in the Reporter’s Dorchester newsroom, work alongside experienced editors, and contribute directly to community journalism serving Boston neighborhoods.
Participants will gain experience in:
- Local reporting and storytelling
- Interviewing and source development
- Multimedia and digital journalism
- Community engagement reporting
- Editorial collaboration and newsroom ethics
The program reflects the Foundation’s core values:
Community — Journalism rooted in neighborhoods and lived experience
Mentorship — Learning directly from working journalists and editors
Opportunity — Creating accessible pathways into media careers
Who can apply for the Forry Foundation Fellowship?
We welcome applications from:
- Boston residents who are rising high school seniors and/or college students studying journalism and media
- Applicants do not need prior newsroom employment, but should demonstrate initiative and commitment to public service journalism rooted in Boston’s neighborhoods.
- Candidates available for the summer 2026 season to complete fellowship.
- The winner should be available to attend a special evening launch event at Southline Boston, Dorchester, MA on Thursday, May 28, 2026.
Do applicants need to be declared journalism majors?
No, but we prefer applicants who intend to pursue journalism in their studies and as a career.
Strong storytelling instincts and community connection are valued as highly as formal training.
What are the dates of the Fellowship?
The inaugural Fellowship is scheduled to run:
June 10, 2026 – August 20, 2026
Final program dates will be announced prior to selection. Fellows will be expected to be in the office or working remotely on assignments @ 3 days per week.
Where will Fellows work?
Fellows will work primarily from the Dorchester Reporter newsroom with journalists affiliated with The Reporter and partner community media organizations across Boston.
The program will include:
- In-person newsroom experience
- Reporting assignments in the field
- Weekly meetings with editors
- Post-fellowship professional development/mentoring
Is the Fellowship in-person or hybrid?
The Fellowship will follow a hybrid model, combining in-person reporting and newsroom collaboration with flexible remote work depending on assignments.
Fellows should expect regular in-person participation in the Reporter newsroom (1-2 days a week average).
Is the Fellowship paid?
The Forry Foundation Fellowship offers a $3,000 stipend for the summer and will offer a flexible schedule that allows for other part-time summer employment if needed.
Compensation details will be shared with selected fellow upon award.
Will Fellows receive mentorship?
Fellows will work with experienced editors and journalists, including mentors connected to the Foundation’s advisory committee and the Thomas F. Mulvoy Jr. Journalism Scholarship, named for longtime editor and educator Thomas F. Mulvoy Jr.
Mentorship is a central pillar of the program.
Does the Fellowship lead to future opportunities?
Yes.
The Fellowship is designed as an entry point into journalism careers through:
- Published reporting experience
- Professional references
- Industry connections
- Internship and employment pathways in local media
Our long-term goal is to build a sustainable pipeline of Boston journalists serving Boston communities.
How do I apply?
Application details, deadlines, and submission requirements are posted in the application pdf below:
Applicants will be asked to submit:
- Resume
- Writing or media samples
- Short statement of interest
When is the decision made— and by whom?
Applicants will be reviewed by a select sub-committee of FFCJ advisory board members and staff. The deadline to submit the application is April 10, 2026. A decision is expected by April 24, 2026
I have additional questions. Who do I contact?
Send an email to: scholarships@forryfoundation.org