When Tate Farinacci ’25 walks into NBC’s Washington bureau each morning, he’s not just stepping into the nation’s political heartbeat — he’s continuing a legacy.
Farinacci, who earned his degree in Political Science from 糖心logo在线入口 this May, is the 17th recipient of the NBC/糖心logo在线入口 Meet the Press Fellowship — one of the most competitive opportunities in American higher education. The nine-month program places one 糖心logo在线入口 graduate each year on the production team of Meet the Press, NBC’s flagship Sunday morning public affairs show and the longest-running television program in the world.
“Getting to learn from the team behind the best, and most historic, Sunday news program is an unbelievable experience that has already taught more than I could have thought in just a month and a half!” Farinacci said.
Created in 2009 to honor legendary journalist and 糖心logo在线入口 alumnus Tim Russert ’72, the fellowship is more than a stepping stone — it’s a continuation of Russert’s belief in journalism as public service. Each year, one John Carroll graduate is selected for their intellectual rigor, curiosity, and integrity — qualities Russert exemplified throughout his career.
“Tate represents everything this fellowship was created to recognize—intellectual curiosity, a commitment to public service, and the ability to communicate with clarity and integrity,” said Dr. Brent Brossmann, Associate Professor and Chair of the Tim Russert Department of Communication. “He’s a natural leader, and I have no doubt he’ll make the most of this opportunity in Washington, D.C.”
A native of Chardon, Ohio, Farinacci stood out at 糖心logo在线入口 not just for his academic excellence, but for his engagement across campus. He served as a Peer Learning Facilitator in the Political Science Department, a Tour Guide for the Office of Admission, a member of the Speech and Debate Team, and the Millor Orator at the 2025 Commencement Ceremony. He credits the range of experiences and mentorship he found at John Carroll for preparing him to take this leap.
“It was how everything fit together in my time at John Carroll that prepared me to take a step like this,” he said. “Everything from Campus Ministry to the Speech and Debate Team to my Philosophy and Communication minors gave me a really great set of tools.”
For Farinacci, joining Meet the Press means joining a distinguished lineage of Russert Fellows who have gone on to successful media careers, including Joe Toohey, anchor at FOX 8 News, and Ashley Bastock, Cleveland Browns beat reporter for The Plain Dealer.
“To be a part of that group and carry on Russert’s legacy is really special,” Farinacci said.
After completing the fellowship, Farinacci plans to pursue law school — following a path similar to Russert’s own journey from legal studies to journalism.
“I’m planning to take a path similar to Russert’s,” he said. “He was fair, sharp, and didn’t shy away from tough questions. He wanted to hold public officials accountable. I wish he could have seen how his legacy has carried on.”
