Former Torch News Editor Ben Rettinhouse was honored with 10 other journalism students from around the state with an MPA Foundation Scholarship for his dedication and excellence in journalism.
Rettinhouse was one of five to receive The Milliman Scholarship, which is given to the original five schools that the Michigan Press Association (MPA) honored with scholarships. Ferris State is among the original five with Michigan State University, Central Michigan University, Wayne State University and Western Michigan University.
Rettinhouse is a senior in journalism and technical communications at Ferris, and worked for the Torch for two years where he got his start as a Lifestyles reporter before being promoted to Opinions Editor midway through his first year on staff.
“I was very touched to receive [The Milliman Scholarship],” Rettinhouse said. “I’m glad the MPA is recognizing community journalism.”
Rettinhouse joins former Torch staff members including 2013-14 Editor-in-Chief Alex Wittman, former sports Editor at both the Torch and Big Rapids Pioneer Greg Bucker, former News reporter Katelyn Crain and former Opinions Editor Angie Walukonis as recipients of the Milliman Scholarship over the last several years.
Then Ferris State’s journalism program was cut back on in the late 1990’s, Ferris was dropped from the Milliman Scholarship program.
Current Torch Advisor and journalism professor Steven Fox appealed the decision early in his seven-year tenure at Ferris State, and Ferris was reinstated.
“[The Milliman Scholarship] legitimizes Ferris and our journalism program,” Fox said. “Our students have gotten involved in the MPA conference and have represented the University well.”
Nine Torch staff members were in attendance to congratulate Rettinhouse and enjoy the benefits of the annual MPA conference at the Amway Grand Plaza.
The group toured the MLive Hub, had lunch with Michigan Governor Rick Snyder and attended seminars on the issues and insider views of the current climate of journalism in Michigan. The conference is also a unique networking opportunity with other college newspaper staffs as well as long-time professionals.
More than $256,000 has been awarded to students pursuing journalism degrees and careers over 25 years through the Michigan Press Association.