Calvin W. Rolark Sr. Journalism Scholarship

Supporting the next generation of journalists committed to truth, community, and social impact.

A journalist, publisher, and community advocate, Dr. Rolark believed education and access to information were essential to opportunity and empowerment. Through his work, he championed literacy, mentorship, and pathways into journalism for young people committed to telling meaningful stories.

In that spirit, Washington Informer Charities awards this scholarship to graduating high school seniors who aspire to pursue careers in journalism and demonstrate a commitment to social advocacy and community engagement.

Award Details

• Award Amount: $1,000 per year
• Renewable: Up to five (3) years
• Institution: Accredited four-year college or university
• Field of Study: Journalism or related communications discipline
• Renewal Criteria: Continued enrollment and academic progress

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be a graduating high school senior from a school in the DC area
• Plan to pursue a career in journalism or communications
• Demonstrate a passion for social advocacy and community involvement

Application Details

• Application Deadline: April 15, 2026
• How to Apply: Complete the online application and submit all required materials by the deadline.
• Required materials:
  • Completed application form
  • Letters of recommendation on official letterhead, including contact information

---

Wilhelmina J. Rolark Leadership Scholarship Award

Wilhelmina Rolark served for 16 years as the Ward 8 representative on the D.C. City Council, where she was a strong voice for community empowerment, accountability, and social justice. She founded the National Association of Black Women Attorneys, creating a national support network and mentorship pipeline for African American women in the legal profession. A respected thought leader, she also authored a weekly column, Checks and Balances, published in The Washington Informer, offering insight on public policy and civic responsibility.

In addition to her legislative and legal achievements, Councilmember Rolark helped shape the cultural and historical identity of Ward 8. She was instrumental in naming Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue and Malcolm X Avenue and co-founded the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Parade alongside her husband, Dr. Calvin W. Rolark Sr., and community leader Ralph Waldo “Petey” Green.

In her honor, Washington Informer Charities awards the Wilhelmina J. Rolark Leadership Scholarship to high school students who demonstrate exceptional leadership potential, a commitment to social justice, and a dedication to community service.

Award Details

Cash awards are granted to the top three applicants:

• First Place: $2,000
• Second Place: $1,000
• Third Place: $500

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be a high school junior or senior (you may change to “senior” if preferred)
• Be actively involved in school, community, or civic organizations
• Demonstrate a passion for social justice, leadership, and community service

Application Details

• All applications must be completed and submitted online by the stated deadline.
• Incomplete applications will not be considered.
• Essays must be original and submitted electronically as part of the application process.
• Application Deadline: April 15, 2026, 11:59 PM (ET)

Essay Requirement

Applicants must submit an original essay responding to the following prompt:

“Wilhelmina J. Rolark believed that leadership requires courage, accountability, and service to community. Describe a challenge facing your community today and explain how young people can take meaningful leadership roles in addressing it.”

Essays should reflect the applicant’s leadership experience, vision for civic engagement, and commitment to making a positive impact in their community.