The 2004 Class of Nieman Fellows (and Nieman Affiliates, or significant others).
The Nieman Foundation has selected its incoming class. Twenty-eight fellows from around the world will descend on Harvard for a year of study, fellowship and pampering.
Yes, pampering.
In 2003, I had the privilege of being selected a Nieman Fellow. There are no words to adequately describe what a year as an in-residence fellow at Nieman Foundation is like. One employee told me that of all the fellows at Harvard — and there are many — Niemans (mainly because of the way the program is designed) are the cream of the crop. I can’t tell you whether that’s true, but I can tell you this. It was one of the best years of my adult life.
There’s a sounding each week in which one fellow tells you his or her life story and prepares native dishes for those in attendance. It is a rare opportunity to get to know the fellows beyond their professional affiliations. In these moments, I got to know the other fellows in ways I don’t even know some of my friends.
Then there are seminars and shop talks, which bring in movers and shakers, thinkers and doers to share their wisdom and knowledge with the class of journalists.
It’s a very social year, so there are lots of receptions, campus events, get-togethers and trips. Add in a couple of classes each semester — among my most memorable were intensive Spanish (big, ummm, mistake), Genesis (my favorite), Woman Who Testify (fascinating).
The Nieman staff, led by curator Bob Giles, is gracious. They made us feel like no request was too big or too small. They spoiled us. And for that, I’m still grateful.
For some Niemans, the fellowship was not just about a year of respite, it was a much needed lifeline.
Geoff Nyarota was founder and editor of the Daily News in Zimbabwe, when under government pressure he was forced out. At one point, Geoff’s offices were firebombed. Hunted by the Zimbabwean police, Geoff and his family fled the country. Geoff joined the Nieman class half a semester before I arrived in Cambridge. Our families became very close. And, yet, he was just one of the many amazing people I spent the year getting to know.
To the incoming class of Niemans, you’re in for the time of your life. Enjoy!
