The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) is an organization of journalists, students and media-related professionals that provides quality programs and services to and advocates on behalf of black journalists worldwide, according to their Web site, www.nabj.org.

The site also explains that the organization was founded by 44 men and women on December 12, 1975, in Washington, D.C. NABJ is the largest organization of journalists of color in the world. NABJ is committed to strengthening ties among black journalists by expanding job opportunities and recruiting activities for veteran, young and aspiring black journalists, while providing continued professional development and training. They also want to increase the number of black journalists in management positions and encourage black journalists to become enterpreneurs.

Each year, NABJ awards, through its Endowment Campaign, nearly $100,000 in scholarships and internships to college and high school students nationwide, as well as fellowships for seasoned professionals.

The organization also helps the general public by providing training services. NABJ works with high schools and colleges to identify and encourage black students to become journalists and to diversify faculties and related curriculum, according to their Web site.

The national headquarters for NABJ is on the campus of the University of Maryland-College Park.

UTM has its own chapter of NABJ. All communications majors and minors are invited to join.

“The NABJ is an organization for anyone, African American students especially, to come together and network, gain leadership experience and knowledge about the communications fields and gain more career opportunities from becoming an affiliated member,” said UTM’s NABJ President Naomi Whitson.

NABJ meetings are the second and fourth Thursdays of every month.

Look for fliers for more information about NABJ fund-raisers, upcoming events and meeting places.

For more information, contact Naomi Whitson at naowhit@mars.utm.edu.