Medina's Feeks selected for 'Meet the Press' fellowship

James Feeks, a Medina High School graduate and John Carroll University senior, has been awarded the NBC/John Carroll University Meet the Press Fellowship. Feeks, a double major in finance and supply chain management with a minor in Spanish and Hispanic studies, will graduate in 2026.

He is the 18th student to receive the nine-month opportunity with Meet the Press, NBC’s Sunday morning public affairs program and the longest-running television program in the world. Feeks will begin the fellowship Sept. 3 in Washington, D.C.

“I was overwhelmed with joy when I received the call from NBC,” Feeks said. “All of the hard work I put into preparing for the interview had paid off, but what mattered even more was being chosen to carry on the legacy of Tim Russert. I will begin this fellowship with the goal of seeking the truth and holding others accountable in each airing of the show.”

The Meet the Press Fellowship was established at John Carroll in 2009 in memory of journalist and JCU alumnus Tim Russert ’72. Each year, the fellowship is awarded to a senior who demonstrates a passion for journalism, politics and public service.

“James embodies the intellectual curiosity, ethical grounding and leadership that are hallmarks of a John Carroll student,” said Dr. Brent Brossmann, associate professor and chair of the Tim Russert Department of Communication. “This fellowship provides an unparalleled opportunity to gain hands-on experience at a national news program while continuing a legacy of JCU graduates who build distinguished careers in journalism and public affairs.”

Feeks’ interest in politics and media began while he was in high school, when he became involved in congressional campaigns. He later moved into leadership roles, serving as a county coordinator and field director, where he gained experience in political organizing, public speaking and campaign strategy.

In college, Feeks expanded his media experience as a guest on Cleveland-based radio station The Answer AM 1420 and on the “Man in the Arena” podcast, where he discussed topics including generational political trends and the impact of artificial intelligence.

“I am the first student outside of political science or journalism to be selected for this position,” Feeks said. “I am confident that John Carroll’s well-rounded Jesuit education, combined with my diverse political experiences and involvement in podcasts and radio shows throughout high school and college, has prepared me for this intensive role.”

As a Meet the Press Fellow, Feeks will conduct research, assist with production, work on Capitol Hill and support producers and on-air talent.

He credited the guidance of John Carroll faculty and staff for helping him navigate the competitive application process.

“I received tremendous support from the John Carroll community throughout each stage of the selection process,” Feeks said. “I am especially thankful to Dr. Swearingen and Dr. Bruce for spending their weekend with me in Washington for the final interview and for being such dependable and inspiring mentors.”

The NBC/John Carroll University Meet the Press Fellowship is one of the university’s most prestigious experiential learning opportunities. Alumni of the fellowship have gone on to careers in journalism, government and public service, continuing Russert’s legacy of informed and ethical public discourse.

Feeks will graduate in May before beginning the fellowship in Washington.