FAMU Scholars Selected for Prestigious MIT Knight Science Journalism Fellowship
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Two standout scholars from the Florida A&M University (FAMU) School of Journalism & Graphic Communication have been named to the prestigious 2026-27 HBCU Science Journalism Fellowship class at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Broadcast journalism majors Khalil-Lullah Ballentine and Krysten Hood are among 10 students selected nationwide for this highly competitive program, marking a significant achievement for the university’s journalism department.
For Ballentine, the opportunity represents a bridge between his journalistic training and his passion for community impact.
"Being selected for this fellowship is an incredible honor, and I’m eager to learn
how to translate complex scientific data into stories that resonate with our community,"
he said. "I believe that science journalism is a powerful tool for advocacy, especially
when it comes to addressing health disparities and environmental justice."
Khalil-Lullah Ballentine is a junior at Florida A&M University. (Photo special to
FAMU)
The fellowship, now in its third year, is a key part of the Knight Science Journalism (KSJ) Program at MIT. It is designed to give top-tier training, guidance, and early career assistance to undergraduate students at HBCUs who want to pursue a career in science, health and environment. By selecting Ballentine and Hood, the program recognizes their potential to lead in a field that has historically lacked diverse voices and perspectives.
Hood said the fellowship is an opportunity to learn how technology and society affect each other.
"I am thrilled to represent FAMU at MIT and to dive deep into the world of science reporting," Hood noted. "This fellowship gives us a platform to ask the big questions and ensures that the stories being told about our future are inclusive of all backgrounds and experiences."
Krysten Hood, a junior at Florida A&M University, is ready to strike as a Knight Science
Journalism Fellow. (Photo special to FAMU)
A Transformative Hybrid Experience
The fellowship kicks off with a week-long summer camp at MIT’s campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts. During this busy week, Ballentine and Hood will join practical workshops taught by leading science journalists from well-known publications. After the summer camp, the students begin a 10-month program that mixes online and in-person work, where they are paired with professional mentors. This mentorship helps them improve their reporting skills and learn how to pitch difficult science stories to major news organizations.
Expanding the Narrative
The KSJ program works closely with HBCU faculty to ensure the fellowship meets the specific needs of emerging Black journalists. This year’s group includes students who are interested in many different topics, such as artificial intelligence and astronomy.
KSJ Program Director Usha Lee McFarling said representation is important because the field has not always included people from all backgrounds. By fostering talent at institutions like FAMU, the program aims to change that dynamic permanently.
Building a Legacy of Excellence
Ballentine remains focused on the long-term goals of the program and the responsibility that comes with being a fellow.
"I want to use this time at MIT to sharpen my investigative skills," he added. "It’s not just about reporting the news; it's about making sure that scientific advancements are accessible and understandable for everyone, regardless of their zip code."
Since its founding in 1983, the Knight Science Journalism Program has supported over 400 journalists globally. The program is a leader in science communication because it publishes the digital magazine Undark and manages the Victor K. McElheny Award, the program remains a leader in science communication. By having Ballentine and Hood join this top-tier group, Florida A&M University continues to prove it is a great place to train the next generation of expert reporters.
Media Contact
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu
