The 33ed Salute to Black Scholars
For the 33rd consecutive year, the Urban League of Flint is once again honoring high school seniors in Genesee County with its Salute to Black Scholars on May 20, 2015, New Jerusalem Full Gospel Baptist Church, 1035 East Carpenter Road beginning at 6:00 pm.
The Urban League of Flint will be honoring 220 graduating African-American seniors from all the high schools in Genesee County with a grade point average greater than 3.0. The Urban League of Flint will award $8,500 of scholarships and another $4,000 of scholarships will be awarded by the Stanley Foundation, Foundation at Mott Community College, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Flint Area Education Foundation Jackson State University Alumni Association, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Flint Area Chapter of Links, and Alpha Pi Alpha Fraternity.
At the convocation the key note speaker, Ja’Nal Jamerson, Director of the Genesee County Literacy Coalition and a former Black Scholar will recognize the student’s accomplishments. Dawn Jones News Anchor for ABC 12 will be the Mistress of Ceremonies.
The convocation is open to the public. There is no cost or entrance fee. Family and friends of the graduating students are encouraged to attend as well as community leaders to show their support for the accomplishments of the students.
In addition to the presentation of scholarships, the students will be introduced to former successful black scholars who are now leaders in the Flint community.
In addition to the convocation, the student’s pictures are published in the CPSA Courier newspaper, and each student is provided a keepsake certificate of accomplishment and souvenir program book. Prior to the convocation, the Urban League held a workshops for both the students and their parents about how to apply for student aid, about what to expect as a college freshman, staying motivated and navigating college life.
The scholarships make a great difference for students and their families. The cost of a college education is burdensome; but the future for bright and motivated students depends on achieving a higher degree. All scholarships help the family with tuition, books and supplies. As a community, Flint has been generous and helped students for 32 years.
Each year, African-American students look forward to being named an Urban League of Flint Black Scholar and being recognized by their community for their accomplishments. Many scholars know of their siblings, and in some cases, their parents being Black Scholars and strive for the same recognition.
