Sports journalist Jim Trotter launches Success Fund for aspiring reporters

By Simone Denard

For generations, the Cathy Hughes School of Communications has trained and graduated remarkable communications professionals. Sports journalist Jim Trotter (’86, B.A.) is a proud graduate of the School of Communications and has spent much of his career implementing the lessons imparted in him while at Howard University.

Prior to his retirement, Trotter worked for the NFL, The Atlantic, ESPN and Sports Illustrated. With nearly four decades in the industry, Trotter recognized the disparity in diverse representation in sports journalism and crafted a plan to help bridge that gap. Work, Plan, Pray Foundation was founded to provide students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) with scholarships and resources to assist in their pursuit of a sports journalism or sports management degree. Through Work, Plan, Pray Foundation, Trotter will donate $300,000 under the Sports Journalism Success Fund to support Howard students.

“With these scholarships, one of my hopes is that it can provide greater opportunities for those serious about going into journalism for the right reasons. I hope that these resources will help students get off to a good start,” said Trotter.

Journalism is an ever-changing field, requiring practitioners who are deeply committed to the craft despite the challenges that will likely be encountered. Trotter believes that training received at HBCUs equips future journalists for the industry, but sometimes funding is the only barrier standing between a student and a potentially groundbreaking career. Because of the lack of journalists of color telling the stories of African-American athletes and sports professionals, diverse and culturally specific stories are often never told or misrepresented. D. Orlando Ledbetter (’84, B.A.) is an Atlanta Falcons beat writer for the Atlanta Journal- Constitution excited about the impact Trotter’s fund will have on the future of sports journalism.

“It is great that Jim Trotter is ensuring that funds are available for students to enhance their education and strengthen the future of journalism,” said Ledbetter.

“Sports journalism isn’t about simply covering games or writing features on your favorite players. There are fundamental tenets of journalism that apply, and part of that is holding those in power accountable. It is about exposing hypocrisy. It is about truth-telling as much as storytelling,” said Trotter.

Trotter’s desire to give back is partly inspired by the mentorship he received at Howard and throughout his career. One significant influence in his life was the late Junior Seau. Seau, a Hall of Fame linebacker, taught Trotter about the mindset of elite athletes. The name of Trotter’s foundation pays homage to Seau, honoring how he ended many of his speaking engagements by telling the audience to work for today, plan for tomorrow, and pray for the rest.

Trotter said attending Howard was one of the best decisions he ever made. While at a state convention with his high school’s Black Student Union, Trotter attended an HBCU forum, and the Howard panelist piqued his interest in the university. Trotter recognizes that countless Howard professors helped him get to where he is today. He credits their leadership and professionalism for assisting him in navigating the often-tricky field of sports journalism.

“The reality is that for any of us who have success, we stand on the shoulders of those who came before us. There were a number of people at Howard who I consider to be not just professors but mentors. The lessons I learned from them I take forward with me, even today. In this day and age, it's important for all of us to do what we can to help those who are coming behind us,” said Trotter.

Trotter’s career is a testament to the power of education, responsible storytelling and giving back. He not only personifies the mission of the School of Communications but also honors the legacy of those who shaped his journey. Investing in the next generation of truth-tellers is crucial during a time when diversity and integrity are under attack. Trotter’s commitment reminds us that giving back extends beyond a signature on a check; it can open doors and enable a future where more stories are told by those who understand and recognize their value.

For more information on how to support the Sports Journalism Success Fund please contact Tiana Williams Elliott at tiana.williams@howard.edu.