The Nebraska Broadcasters Association Foundation (NBAF) offers college scholarships to support students enrolled in radio and/or television broadcasting or broadcast journalism programs at accredited colleges, universities, technical colleges, or trade schools in Nebraska. These scholarships are designed to foster learning in broadcasting, broadcast journalism, production, management, advertising, broadcast electronics and technology, and other arts and techniques of the broadcasting field—including over-the-air broadcasting and multiplatform, digital content distribution. Applicants must have a high school diploma and meet all eligibility criteria. Eligible students are encouraged to submit their applications by the stated deadline. Scholarships begin at a minimum of $2,500, with a total annual award pool of up to $25,000. The number of scholarships awarded, and the total amount distributed each year are determined by the NBAF Board of Directors, based on the quality and quantity of applications received.
NBA Foundation Scholarships: $2,500.00
Dick Palmquist Scholarships: $3,500.00
Marty Riemenschneider Scholarships: $5,000.00
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
To qualify for the NBA Foundation Scholarship, applicants must be pursuing a course of study in broadcasting or broadcast journalism at a Nebraska public or private college, university, technical college, or trade school. Applicants must have completed at least half of their degree or graduation requirements at the time of application.
Applicants should be planning a career that utilizes radio and/or television broadcasting or broadcast journalism skills, ideally within a broadcast station environment. This includes roles in engineering, news, programming, sales, and other common departments.
In addition to academic progress, applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance, high integrity, and a clear understanding of their personal and professional responsibilities.
The following institutions have been designated as eligible by the NBA Foundation Board:
- Central Community College – Hastings
- Concordia University – Seward
- Northeast Community College – Norfolk
- University of Nebraska – Kearney
- University of Nebraska – Lincoln
- University of Nebraska – Omaha
- Wayne State College – Wayne
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
In addition to meeting the eligibility requirements outlined above, applicants must:
- Complete and submit the NBA Foundation Scholarship application form.
- Provide your most recent transcript, showing GPA and completed coursework.
- Provide two signed, one-page recommendation letters from school faculty and/or a radio or television station where you have either been employed or served as an intern.
- Important: Recommendation letters must be emailed directly from the source (not the student) to Jenna@ne-ba.org.
- Submit a link to an audio or video sample of relevant coursework, not to exceed 3 minutes.
- This submission may demonstrate your work in a non-talent role if applicable (e.g., engineering, sales, etc.).
- Write and submit an original essay not exceeding 1000 words answering the following question: What do local radio or television stations need to do within the next five years to remain relevant to their audiences, communities, and advertisers?
- Finalists may be asked to participate in a personal interview.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
All applications must be submitted online by clicking the link below. Applications will be accepted starting September 1, 2025 and must be received no later than October 31, 2025.
*This button will only be active during designated application periods
