Syracuse Sun

Ghael Fobes, a 2022 graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Marshall Scholarship. This program was established by British Parliament in 1953 to honor former U.S. Secretary of State Gen. George C. Marshall and American support post-World War II. The scholarship offers up to three years of fully funded graduate study at any university in the United Kingdom.

Fobes is among 36 students selected nationwide and becomes Syracuse University’s seventh recipient of this scholarship. Dame Karen Pierce, British ambassador to the U.S., stated, “Marshall Scholars continue to represent the very best of American society, dedicating their time and effort to address some of the great challenges of our time.”

Fobes plans to pursue master's degrees in data and artificial intelligence ethics and future governance at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. He began his career with NBC News as an intern during college and currently works as an associate White House producer for NBC News in Washington, D.C.

Reflecting on AI's impact on journalism, Fobes said, “I think the effects right now are pretty wide-ranging and pose some great opportunities and challenges.” He noted how AI tools have improved transcription efficiency at NBC News but also highlighted challenges such as verifying content created with generative AI.

Looking ahead, Fobes aims to lead an innovation office within NBC News' newsgathering operations after completing his studies. “My goal is to develop ethical workflows that enhance our ability to gather and present news,” he explained.

During his undergraduate studies, Fobes majored in broadcast and digital journalism while minoring in political science at Syracuse University. He was recognized as a Syracuse University Scholar and served as Commencement class speaker in 2022.

He credits his academic experience for preparing him for his role at NBC News: “It gives me a great foundation for approaching my Marshall Scholarship proposal for developing ethical newsgathering workflows with AI.” He expressed gratitude towards professors Cheryl Brody Franklin and Charlotte Grimes for their mentorship.

Fobes also contributed significantly to The Daily Orange newspaper by leading its audio department and founding "The Daily Orange" podcast. “Leading the podcast taught me how to pitch and integrate new technologies into the operations of a storied newspaper,” he said.

Jolynn Parker from Syracuse University's Center for Fellowship and Scholarship Advising (CFSA) praised Fobes’ record: “Ghael’s extraordinary record of service and leadership...made him an outstanding candidate for the Marshall Scholarship.”

Fobes acknowledged Parker's guidance during his application process: “I would not have known about...the award without Jolynn’s encouragement.” Students interested in similar scholarships should contact CFSA by June 2025.