The Missouri School of Journalism Selected as an Initial PatchU Network Member
The Program Is Sponsored by AOL and Patch
Media Contact
Caroline Campbell
917-606-4772
New York, N.Y. (Sept. 21, 2010) — AOL Inc. (NYSE: AOL) and its wholly-owned subsidiary Patch Media Corporation today announced the launch of PatchU, a new network of partnerships between local Patch online publications and leading journalism schools, colleges and universities to help prepare the next generation of journalists for successful careers. The initiative, which debuted this fall, offers internship and coursework opportunities at local Patch publications to students under the guidance of Patch’s professional editors.
The Missouri School of Journalism is one of the first members of the PatchU network. Students will gain first-hand knowledge of Patch’s products, teams, and systems, as well as exposure to the company’s hyperlocal business model.
“Patch is committed to building strong relationships with colleges and universities that are preparing the journalists who will define the new media landscape,” said Warren Webster, president, Patch Media. “Our continuing rapid growth gives us an incredible opportunity to provide cutting edge, real-world experience in various communities across the country to students who will become tomorrow’s editors and reporters, at Patch and elsewhere. We’re delighted to offer students the chance to learn alongside our outstanding editors and develop their skills in multimedia journalism at the community level.”
The PatchU model offers flexible program options to partner schools including internships for course credit in the fall/winter semester or over summer break, independent study projects, and unique professor- or class-specific collaborations. In addition, advanced journalism students not enrolled in a PatchU course are encouraged to earn money by freelancing for nearby Patch publications.
Patch launched its 100th site in August and plans to expand to more than 500 U.S. neighborhoods in 20 states by the end of 2010. Patch plans to hire more than 500 additional journalists this year and expects to be the largest hirer of full-time journalists in the U.S. in 2010.
About Patch
Patch is a local content and advertising platform. Patch Media Corporation currently operates 186 community-focused sites serving towns in California, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Virginia. Patch is making an important investment in local journalism by placing professional journalists in each town it serves to encourage community participation and provide original, trusted coverage for each individual town. In addition to professional journalists producing original content, Patch is a platform for community members to comment on stories, share their opinions, post photos and announcements, and add events to the community calendar. For more information about Patch, go to www.patch.com.
About AOL
AOL Inc. (NYSE: AOL) is a leading global Web services company with an extensive suite of brands and offerings and a substantial worldwide audience. AOL’s business spans online content, products and services that the company offers to consumers, publishers and advertisers. AOL is focused on attracting and engaging consumers and providing valuable online advertising services on both AOL’s owned and operated properties and third-party websites. In addition, AOL operates one of the largest Internet subscription access services in the United States, which serves as a valuable distribution channel for AOL’s consumer offerings.
Updated: May 14, 2020