Former Robert Novak Journalism Fellow Mollie Hemingway, Novak ’04, has evolved in her journalism career from working at small newspapers, to becoming a Novak Fellow in 2004, to her current positions as senior editor at The Federalist and contributor to Fox News. After many years in the media field, Hemingway has a positive outlook for aspiring journalists, and supports the TFAS Communications + Journalism program as a Board of Visitors member.
“The best advice for young journalists is to view the present disruption and implosion of newsrooms as a plus and not a negative,” Hemingway said. “Yes, it’s scary to not have well-known paths to success, but the opportunities to make your own career are endless.”
Hemingway herself is a worthy example of someone who leveraged opportunities to carve out a career path. Hemingway said the Novak Fellowship was instrumental in her rise as a journalist, and finally editor.
“I can’t imagine how different my career would be without the Novak Fellowship,” Hemingway said. “It enabled me to take a year of in-depth study and become knowledgeable on my beat. It helped me get placed in national publications and put me in contact with other fellows who answered my questions and helped me learn the ropes.”
“Because I’ve personally benefited from the generosity of others in getting my career launched, I wanted to help others by supporting wonderful programs that focus on results and first principles.”
As a former Novak Fellow, Hemingway attends events to welcome new fellows and learn more skills from leaders in the field. Each year, past and current fellows meet for retreats where speakers such as Susan Arellano of Templeton Press, Ron Scherer of the Christian Science Monitor, Paul Gigot of The Wall Street Journal and others delivered remarks about the current media landscape. Due to this exposure, Hemingway is an excellent advisor for the TFAS Board of Visitors.
While newsroom budgets are shrinking, TFAS offers training to young journalists on sound principles. More than 100 student journalists complete TFAS programs around the world every year, and experienced professionals such as Hemingway provide input and leadership for programs.
“Because I’ve personally benefited from the generosity of others in getting my career launched, I wanted to help others by supporting wonderful programs that focus on results and first principles,” Hemingway said.