James T. DeCrescenzo Merit Awards Program Announcement

After nearly a decade of celebrating exceptional stenographic court reporting students, Project Steno has made the difficult decision to conclude the Merit Awards program.

We are incredibly proud of what the awards have meant to students and to our community. For years, our $1,000 awards recognized students who reached remarkable milestones —140 words per minute in one year or 225 words per minute in two years or less. These achievements reflect extraordinary dedication, perseverance, and commitment to the profession.

Our awards have been presented in memory of James T. DeCrescenzo, Project Steno’s founder and first president. His vision and passion for the future of stenographic court reporting continue to inspire our work.

The Future Is Bright

While the Merit Awards have concluded, there is tremendous reason to be excited about the future of the profession.

Project Steno’s free six-week Basic Training program is overflowing, with a waitlist extending through the end of the year. Court reporting schools across the country are experiencing similar demand, with full programs and growing waitlists.

More people are discovering stenography, and more students are choosing this profession. That is something worth celebrating.

To Every Merit Award Recipient

We are proud of you and wish you every success in your career. Keep practicing, keep learning, and keep moving forward. Project Steno will be cheering you on.

And to the educators, volunteers, donors, schools, and supporters who helped make the Merit Awards possible: thank you for helping us celebrate the students who are shaping the future of stenographic court reporting.

If Project Steno’s mission is meaningful to you, we hope you’ll consider making a gift. Your support helps sustain Basic Training and the people and operations behind it, allowing us to introduce more students to this rewarding profession and strengthen its future.