
Established through the will of the late journalist Karl A. Bickel, this scholarship fund is dedicated to supporting students who demonstrate both need and merit in their pursuit of a journalism education.
Impact on Flagler College students
Overseen by Wells Fargo’s Philanthropic Services, this trust provides an annual institutional grant of approximately $40,000.
The chosen college(s) awards this grant funding amongst its most deserving journalism students. Nearly all Flagler students depend on financial aid, and scholarship funds like this one give the College a competitive edge in recruiting top scholars globally.
One such scholar, Madison Hope Taylor, a young mother from Pennsylvania, said this scholarship allowed her to attend her “dream school” and invest time in extracurriculars aligned with her passions.

“Without [this scholarship] I would not be able to attend [college at] one of the prettiest campuses in the United States,” Taylor said. “...I would not be able to work at my dream place which is Florida School for the Deaf and Blind.”
While completing her degree in Journalism and Documentary Production, Taylor was actively involved in the Deaf Awareness Club and worked part-time at the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind (FSDB). Post-graduation, she secured a role as FSDB’s Social Media Specialist.
Taylor’s success story is just one example of the impact of the Bickel Scholarship. This legacy of support and excellence traces back to the remarkable life and career of Karl A. Bickel.
A legacy of journalism and philanthropy

“Bickel was a born newspaper man,” a Sarasota public history article reported. “While attending Stanford University, he had a chance to cover his first big story, the San Francisco Earthquake in 1906... Bickel had lived most of his life in close touch with the important happenings of the first half of this century.”
Bickel began his illustrious career at the United Press Association in 1907, rising to president by 1935. Under his leadership, the United Press service expanded globally, including pioneering news exchanges with Soviet Russia.
“Much of the growth of the UP organization, which was a second-rate press association a score of years ago, is attributed to the leadership and resourcefulness of Mr. Bickel,” a 1935 article titled ‘Scripp-Howard Enters Broadcasting Field’ reported. “It now ranks as the world’s largest international press association, privately controlled, serving clients in all portions of the world.”
After retiring to Sarasota, Fla., Bickel continued to influence the media landscape by pioneering the Scripps-Howard Radio Company, advocating for the integration of broadcast and print journalism.

“We feel that there are possibilities in radio for the development of a closer and more intimate contact between the readers of Scripps-Howard newspapers and the men and women who produce the papers,” Bickel said in a 1935 interview. “We feel that we should give these possibilities careful study and hope that we may find ways and means of increasing the effectiveness and value of both these great instruments for social advancement.”
Bickel’s passion for journalism was matched by his commitment to community and historical preservation. He and his wife, Madira, were instrumental in various philanthropic efforts in Sarasota, Fla., including establishing the Madira Bickel Mound State Archaeological Site.
A testament to excellence
The scholarship fund’s annual selection process is rigorous, typically awarding funds to just one school. Conner Sawyer, the Wells Fargo fund manager, and his team highlighted Flagler College’s standout application, noting its clarity and community spirit.
“Flagler’s application stands out in many great ways,” Sawyer said. “...Having a fantastic journalism program makes Flagler a great applicant that we look forward to reviewing each year.”
Voices of gratitude
Other recipients of the scholarship have also shared their appreciation:
Alexis Bensoussan | Class of 2025

“The Karl A. Bickel and Madira Bickel Journalistic Scholars Program has allowed me to take the classes I need and enjoy them so that I can pursue a career I am passionate about, all while being at a school I love so much with outstanding professors who truly care.
In the future, I aspire to work in the journalism industry as a news reporter and anchor. I would also love to write for a newspaper, as I greatly enjoy the writing aspect of journalism."
Emily Bruntell | Class of 2025

“This scholarship has significantly relieved my financial needs, [bolstering my] academic achievements and education. My internship search has also been greatly impacted by listing myself as a Bickel Scholar.
My career plan as of now is to become a marketing writer. I want to write scripts for commercials or even for campaigns. I have seen my writing skills improve at Flagler and I plan to use them to my advantage as I move on through my life."
Kyle Richard Miller | Class of 2026

"Having this [scholarship] has allowed me to attend a college that will help me in my future to pursue the career I dream to have. I would like to thank those who have provided me with the Karl A. Bickel and Madira Bickel Journalistic Scholarship, as it allows me to continue attending Flagler College and receive the unique care given to me by a private school.
My plan for the future is to pursue a career in writing for TV series, movies, and books. I have always enjoyed content creation, and I would specifically like to work for companies like DC Comics."
Forward for our people

When Flagler can say ‘yes’ to prospective students, regardless of their ability to pay, we build new futures. The resulting variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enrich campus culture, enhance our creativity, and strengthen the College.
The Karl A. Bickel and Madira Bickel Journalistic Scholarship Fund not only honors the legacy of two remarkable individuals but also paves the way for the next generation of great journalists to emerge from Flagler College.
Join us in continuing this legacy of excellence! Visit the Flagler Forward campaign website to support the Karl A. Bickel and Madira Bickel Journalistic Scholarship Fund and empower the next generation of journalists.