Wendy Chioji journalism scholarship announced
A new journalism scholarship at UCF will honor Wendy Chioji, the former WESH-Channel 2 anchor who died in October.
“The merit-based scholarship is available for students studying journalism, digital journalism and storytelling,” UCF Nicholson School of Communication and Media announced.
The Wendy Chioji Memorial Scholarship will honor communication and media students “who have demonstrated academic success as well as significant accomplishments in pursuit of a degree in journalism,” the school added.
Chioji spent 20 years at NBC affiliate WESH and became one of the most admired media figures in Central Florida.
“We are honored to announce this scholarship, which reflects upon the impact that Wendy Chioji made in Central Florida newsrooms and it will provide financial support and inspiration to a student at UCF,” said Patrick Smith, director for advancement at the Nicholson School.
“Knowing that this memorial scholarship was initially funded by Wendy’s professional colleagues at WESH2 and close friends should inspire the Central Florida community to contribute to the scholarship,” Smith added. “It personifies Wendy’ s spirit and commitment to give your best personally and professionally. We are thrilled to know that a UCF student will be shaped by Wendy Chioji’s legacy in journalism.”
Chioji’s many admirers can make a donation in her memory.
Donations can be made at ucffoundation.org/wendy or 407-823-5526.
Chioji died at 57 after a long battle with cancer. Central Florida friends can celebrate her at a Thursday event that will be a fundraiser for Pelotonia, a nonprofit for cancer research that Chioji championed.
The suggested donation is $50, but any amount is appreciated. Admission to the evening can be purchased at Pelotonia.org/DEFY. The event is scheduled to start at 6:30 p.m. at The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Dr. No. 100 in downtown Orlando.