At the May 6, 1989 General Membership Meeting, the idea to honor someone from the professional media, high school administration, local Nebraska communities or Nebraska colleges who significantly supported scholastic journalism was approved unanimously. Initially, the plan was to have NHSPA member advisers submit nominations and then a standard form would be sent to the nominees concerning background information. The sheets would be returned to a panel of executive board members and past distinguished advisers who would vote. Current advisers are not eligible for the award, but past or retired advisers are eligible. The Friend of Journalism Award would be presented at the Spring Contest Awards Ceremony and the winner would be invited to speak at the fall convention. After awarding the first Friend of Journalism Award to Dean Neale Copple, the membership voted to name the award after him as well. If you can help fill in any of the missing information, please email M. Kalkowski.
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*winners are confirmed with Exec. Board Minutes/NHSPA files