ONF Programs

The Oklahoma Newspaper Foundation was formed in 1959 by members of the Oklahoma Press Association. ONF is a non-profit organization created for educational and charitable purposes and supported by private donations. These generous contributions support the foundation’s efforts to improve the state’s newspaper industry and quality of journalism. The foundation’s programs and activities include:

Journalism Education Workshops

Multiple workshops are provided each year at a low cost to members thanks to foundation funding. These educational seminars are an opportunity for staffs to develop journalistic skills and exchange ideas.

Newspapers in Education

ONF provides materials and tools for NIE coordinators as well as newspaper activities for teachers to use in the classroom. Kid-friendly features are also made available for newspapers to print during important NIE events, such as NIE Week and Constitution Day.

Scholarships

A total of $5,000 in scholarships is awarded each year to journalism students at Oklahoma colleges and universities.

University Emergency Funds

A budget of $3,000 per year assists selected journalism students in financial need at Oklahoma State University, University of Central Oklahoma and University of Oklahoma.

Beachy Musselman Award

This annual award, named for the late two-term OPA president and editor of the Shawnee News-Star, recognizes an outstanding journalist for his or her contribution to printed journalism and the community. The recipient receives a plaque and $1,000.

Freedom of Information

The foundation works with FOI Oklahoma on special projects, such as its annual First Amendment Congress event for high school students.

Special Event Sponsorships

ONF assists several Oklahoma organizations by sponsoring events, such as the Oklahoma Celebration of Reading, a statewide reading program and conference for elementary students; FOI Oklahoma’s First Amendment Congress for high school and college students; and the Oklahoma City Gridiron Club’s annual performances.