This week, Ethan Phillips ’09JRN, ’13SIPA reports that Charles and Clydette deGroot have given $75,000 to support Columbia Journalism School’s documentary film program.
Last year, with encouragement from friends who support the Journalism School, the deGroots gave $20,000 to the documentary program. This gift helped fund partial scholarships for two students, several student documentaries, and extracurricular activities. The documentary Born Into This was named the Joyce A. deGroot Memorial Film, recognizing it as the best film among those supported by deGroots.
After visiting Columbia, meeting students, and watching their films, the deGroots extended their support, pledging $25,000 per year to the documentary program for the next three years. Their gift will directly support scholarships for students and offset costs associated with shooting and producing films.
“This is an emerging program at the Journalism School, and the deGroots’ support enhances what documentary students are able to do,” said Phillips. “It’s so rewarding to see the caliber of these films — the complex issues being addressed through powerful storytelling. It makes me proud to be part of this great program.”
