Friends of Bill Burton MAB Foundation Board Scholarship
Supporting Michigan’s Next Generation of Media Professionals
If you're a Michigan student studying broadcasting, film, media or a related field and want to build your career in Michigan's media industry, the MAB Foundation wants to help you get there.
Remembering Bill Burton
Bill Burton, former President and COO of the Detroit Radio Advertising Group (DRAG), was one of radio's most enthusiastic champions. His career centered on selling the value and power of radio to decision-makers, and he was individually behind an estimated $300 million in sales during his 30-year career.
Burton was known for bringing creativity and showmanship to everything he did. His famous “Why Radio” sales presentation began by laying a piece of velvet across the desk because what he was selling, he believed, was more precious than fine jewelry. He once even hired a marching band to thank a client for their business.
Following Burton's passing in 2014, the MAB Foundation established this ongoing competitive scholarship to honor his impact on broadcasting and carry his enthusiasm for the industry forward to a new generation.
Your 200-Word Sales Pitch
Bill Sold Radio. Now Sell Us on You.
One of the unique requirements of this scholarship is a 200-word “Why You” sales pitch.
In your own words, tell us what makes you someone worth investing in. What will you bring to Michigan's media industry? What sets you apart? Think of this as your opportunity to make the pitch: be specific, be persuasive and let your personality come through. You have 200 words. Make them count.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must have at least one semester of school remaining after Spring 2027. Graduating seniors are not eligible.
Applicants must be Michigan students studying broadcasting, film, media or a related field and interested in pursuing a career in Michigan's media industry after graduation.
What You'll Need to Apply
Please have the following materials ready when completing your application:
- Current resume
- Letter of recommendation from an instructor or director of your school's broadcast/media department
- Additional recommendation(s) from internships, work, community or extracurricular activities
- A 200-word “Why You” sales pitch, written in your own words
- Copy of your school transcript
- Completed application information
Application Deadline
Completed applications must be submitted by Friday, January 22, 2027 at 5:00 p.m. EST. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
Ready to Make Your Pitch?
Gather your application materials, tell us “Why You” and take the next step toward a career in Michigan media.
Apply for the Friends of Bill Burton Scholarship