New scholarship honors professor's role as mentor

mcginnis med

Recent alumnus TJ McGinnis, who now works as a freelance videographer
in Kansas City, has established a scholarship in honor of Fred Lamer,
assistant professor of mass communication, who served as a mentor to
McGinnis during his years as a Northwest student.

TJ McGinnis believes his decision to attend Northwest Missouri State University is a decision he will never regret. Now, just a year after graduation, he has created a scholarship in honor of a man who was a positive influence in his life -- Fred Lamer, assistant professor of mass communication.

I always felt comfortable talking to Fred,” McGinnis, a broadcasting major who graduated in 2007, said. “He taught me a lot about life and helped me think things through.”

McGinnis established the Fred Lamer Excellence in Broadcasting Scholarship for students involved in KNWT, Northwest’s student television station.

“I wanted to give to an area that meant so much to me, and I want future students to be able to experience the same things I did,” McGinnis said.

At least $500 will be awarded to a continuing Northwest student each year with preference given to broadcast journalism students.

“The entire learning process, both in and out of the classroom, helps a student grow and mature,” Lamer said. “TJ took advantage of this and created many of his own opportunities. I am truly humbled and gratified by his gesture, especially at such a tender age, to help students continue their education.”

McGinnis, now a freelance videographer in Kansas City, said he credits his experience at Northwest, including the ability to job shadow when he was a student and networking with many Northwest alumni, as the reason for his success.

“I know this is really cliché, but I have always wanted to give to others who have helped me. Hopefully others will follow my lead,” McGinnis said. “As a recent graduate, I am trying to do what I can. Money will come and go, but I hope what I do with it will make a difference.”

To contribute to the Fred Lamer Excellence in Broadcasting Scholarship or for more information, contact Polly Howard with the Northwest Foundation at 660.562.1248 or at pollyh@nwmissouri.edu.

For more information, please contact:

Mitzi Lutz
Advancement Communications Specialist
Northwest Missouri State University
800 University Drive, Alumni House
Maryville, MO 64468
660.562.1248 (phone)
660.562.1990 (fax)
www.nwmissouri.edu/alumni

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