Professor taught, mentored hundreds of CSU students who have gone on to successful media careers in the region and beyond

Betty Clapp, a long-time journalism professor for Cleveland State University's College of Education and Public Affairs, received a Distinguished Alumni Award from the Cleveland chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) at its August 4 annual meeting and Donald Sabath Awards Event.

Professor Clapp, who has taught journalism at the CSU School of Communication for over 20 years helped found The Cleveland Stater student laboratory newspaper in 1999 and served as its faculty advisor for nearly 10 years. She has also served as a faculty advisor to the student chapter of SPJ multiple times.

Professor Clapp's engaging, approachable teaching style has benefited many during her time at CSU; she has mentored hundreds of students who have gone on to successful media careers across many different communication-related fields. 

In addition to her work at CSU, she served as both the President and a Board Member of the Cleveland Professional Chapter of SPJ.

Additional honorees at SPJ’s August 4 event included Monica Robins, senior medical reporter at WKYC and medical columnist for the Cleveland Jewish News (Distinguished Alumni Award); Harry Boomer, reporter WOIO-TV 19 SJP (Lifetime Achievement Award); and Jeremiah Al-Jaleel (Philip Porter College Scholarship).

The Cleveland Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists was founded in 1950. It provides an array of educational programs and events, helping journalists, writers and communicators build their skills, offer a place to discuss journalism issues of the day and provide social and networking opportunities.