Experienced minority journalists have until March 1 to apply for the 17th annual Minority Writers Seminar April 12-15 at the Freedom Forum Diversity Institute at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee.

Participants receive intense training for writing opinion in a “boot camp” environment with veteran opinion writers comprising the faculty, said Tommy Denton, director of the seminar sponsored by the National Conference of Editorial Writers Foundation in partnership with the Diversity Institute.

Enrollment is limited to 12, and minority journalists who have been writing opinion less than two years may also apply. NCEW Foundation pays for lodging and food at the Seminar and reimburses up to $200 each for transportation to and from Nashville.

The program's purpose is to give minority journalists an opportunity to explore the nuts-and-bolts of opinion writing as a career move, said Denton, retired editorial page editor who is past president of both NCEW and its Foundation.

Participants hear presentations on the craft of persuasive writing and keynote addresses by nationally known speakers, attend simulated editorial board meetings, and write two opinion pieces that are critiqued by the faculty.

Past participants praise the value of the writing exercises and the “exceptional” faculty.

“Having participated in 14 of the 16 Seminars, I believe that those who experience this concentrated, four-day exposure to the opinion craft leave Nashville with a deeper understanding and appreciation of this essential journalistic function of American democracy,” Denton said.

Past participants agree, praising the value of the writing exercises and the faculty members for their expertise, style and passion for the craft.

Denton said he is pleased to announce that last year’s faculty is returning for the 2012 session. They are:

Linda Campbell, editorial writer/columnist, Fort Worth Star-Telegram in Texas, and former NCEW board member.

Vanessa Gallman, editorial page editor, Lexington Herald-Leader in Kentucky, former Seminar director, and past president of NCEW and NCEW Foundation.

O. Ricardo Pimentel, Metro columnist, San Antonio Express-News and past president of National Association of Hispanic Journalists.

Chuck Stokes, editorial/public affairs director for WXYZ-TV/Channel 7 in Detroit, and past president of NCEW and NCEW Foundation.

For more information and to apply online, go to www.MinorityWritersSeminar.org.

Click here to apply.