NSA Ohio Jim Canterucci Scholarship

Go Beyond the Textbook: Bridge the Gap Between Academic Theory and Professional Practice

Are you a college junior, senior, or graduate student ready to take your communication skills from the classroom to the professional stage? The NSA Ohio Jim Canterucci Scholarship is designed to be the bridge between your academic learning and the real-world business of speaking.

This opportunity is not a typical university tuition grant; instead it awards you a full one-year membership in NSA Ohio, the association for professional speakers, granting you professional development and direct access to the professional speaking community. (July 2026—May 2027)

Central to this experience is your partnership with a dedicated Professional Ambassador—an established industry veteran—who serves as your guide for perspective, industry navigation, and professional growth.

Who should apply?

Before submitting your application, please ensure you meet the eligibility requirements and are ready to commit to the professional standards of the program.

1. Academic Eligibility You must be a college junior, senior, or graduate student currently enrolled in communication, public speaking, leadership, training, or a related field.

2. The "Driver" Mindset You must be willing to take the initiative to attend all meetings both virtual and in -person (see list below), and coordinate with your Professional Ambassador as part of your membership.

3. Professional Standards This program is a practice ground for the business world. You should only apply if you are ready to:

• Respond Promptly: Adhere to the standard for young professionals by responding to all communications within 48 hours.
• Communicate Professionally: Use proper etiquette (no "ghosting") and treat all interactions with the maturity expected in a business environment.
• Respect Boundaries: Understand that this program is for professional development, not job placement, financial assistance, or academic tutoring.

If you are ready to take the initiative and drive your career forward, apply today to secure your guide to the professional speaking profession.

We are looking for students ready to bridge the gap between academic theory ad the real-world business of speaking.

Application Deadline - May 1, 2026

Award Announcement - May 21, 2026

Apply

Meeting Schedule

All in-person meetings are held at the Dublin Integrated Education Center (DIEC) - 6805 Bobcat Way, Dublin, OH 43016

Thursday August 20, 2026, 7:00pm-8:30pm – Virtual

Friday September 18, 2026, 10:00am-3:00pm – Dublin Ohio

Thursday October 8, 2026, 7:00pm-8:30pm – Virtual

Friday November 13, 2026, 10:00am-3:00pm – Dublin Ohio

Thursday January 7, 2027, 7:00pm-8:30pm – Virtual

Saturday January 16, 2027, 10:00am-3:00pm – Dublin Ohio

Thursday February 11, 2027, 7:00pm-8:30pm – Virtual

Saturday March 20, 2027, 10:00am-3:00pm – Dublin Ohio

Thursday April 8, 2027, 7:00pm-8:30pm – Virtual

Saturday May 15, 2027, 10:00am-3:00pm – Dublin Ohio

For an idea of the past development content, see the NSA Ohio Events page.

Professional Ambassador

The three Scholarship recipients will be connected with a Professional Ambassador to provide guidance, perspective, and encouragement. Note that the scholarship is not designed for job placement. Rather, the Ambassador provides support in navigating the membership and realizing the highest potential for professional development.