Lou and Carole Prato Sports Reporting Scholarship

Louis F. Prato dedicated more than 30 years to RTDNA and the RTDNA Foundation. Lou served as secretary of the RTDNA Foundation Board of Trustees, and for more than 20 years he was treasurer of the RTDNA Board of Directors. Lou worked as a sports broadcaster, news director, and journalism professor. Lou and his wife, Carole, lived near his alma mater, Penn State University. He authored several books on Penn State football, including The Penn State Football Encyclopedia, and was Director of the Penn State All Sports Museum. He died in February 2025.

The scholarship was established in 2001 in recognition of Lou’s service to RTDNA and the RTDNA Foundation and his commitment to excellence in journalism. It is awarded to a journalism student who brings Lou's journalism values to cover sports.

The recipient of the Lou and Carole Prato Sports Reporting Scholarship will receive $1,000 and an invitation to Washington, D.C.

Who Can Apply

Students who will be sophomores, juniors, or seniors at the time the scholarship is awarded, pursuing careers in radio, television, or digital journalism

Deadlines & Important Dates

September 2026: Applications Open - Apply online.

October 2026: Applications Due 

December 2026: Recipients Notified

March 2027: Recipients are invited to Washington, D.C. In addition to attending the  First Amendment Awards, presented by the RTDNA Foundation, recipients will participate in a day of professional development training and networking with industry leaders. Travel and lodging costs are covered by RTDNA.

How to Apply

• Key things to know
  • Eligibility is open to students and professionals studying or working in the United States
  • Students are not eligible to receive the same scholarship more than once, but can receive a Fellowship in the future
• Complete the online application form, including:
  • Contact information
  • Experience
  • URL links to 3-5 work samples
    • Links should be broadcast (television/radio) or online news pieces
    • And, should be uploaded to a host site like YouTube, Vimeo, SoundCloud, etc.
• Upload supplemental materials
  • Cover letter
    • Discuss current and past journalism experience
    • Describe how you intend to use the funds
    • Discuss your choice to pursue a career in journalism
  • Resume
  • Letter of recommendation
    • From a professor, advisor or supervisor

Individuals can apply for only one scholarship or fellowship opportunity, so please read carefully. Individuals who apply for more than one will be disqualified.