James L. Mateja Memorial Scholarship
On January 30, 2017, longtime Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA) member Jim Mateja lost his battle with cancer. An industry heavyweight, Jim’s powerful media reach and accessible reviews made him one of the most influential auto writers of his era.
Jim was also a dedicated MAMA member, playing an active role in the organization he helped create. As MAMA’s first president, Jim charted the course for a group that now boasts more than 260 members and hosts two of the finest annual automotive media events in the country.
Jim’s dedication to journalistic integrity; his potent, plain-language reviews; and his friendly, unguarded nature contributed to his legend and made him a welcome and respected fixture at MAMA events. Likewise, his counsel and support were always sought after and appreciated by subsequent MAMA leaders.
Honoring Jim
To honor Jim’s legacy, and to fully acknowledge his contributions to our industry, MAMA has partnering with the Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism and established a scholarship in his name.
The James L. Mateja Memorial Scholarship
The James L. Mateja Memorial Scholarship provides an annual sum of at least $4,000 to a promising journalism student as selected by Medill faculty. A new recipient is selected every year.
Funding the Legacy
To fund the scholarship, MAMA initially raised more than $100,000, contributed directly to Northwestern University’s 501 (c)(3) scholarship charity. MAMA members have made a significant contribution to the scholarship, as have automotive manufacturers, as well as partner organizations, to be a part of this tribute to Jim.
About the Scholarship
The James L. Mateja Memorial Scholarship is being managed by Northwestern University with no further input from MAMA —though additional contributions to the fund are always accepted. Most importantly, the name of the scholarship will never change.
How to Contribute
Whether you are representing an automaker, an organization or simply yourself, we continue to welcome any contributions that will be made to honor our founding president. All contributions are tax-deductible and go directly to Northwestern University.
1) To donate via Northwestern's secure online portal, please click here, enter the amount of your donation, select "Other" and then enter James L. Mateja Memorial Scholarship in the text box.
2) If you'd like to send a check, please make the check payable to Northwestern University and mail it to the following address (VERY IMPORTANT: indicate in the memo field or an enclosure that the gift is for the James L. Mateja Memorial Scholarship):
Julie Frahar
Alumni Relations and Development
Northwestern University
1201 Davis St.
Evanston, IL 60201
If you have additional questions, please contact current MAMA President Harvey Briggs at president@mamaonline.org.