Scholarships Available:
The Wilson Family Advocacy Scholarship
This scholarship is established in honor of The Wilson Family, whose lives have been defined by a deep commitment to advocating for those who have often been unheard and overlooked. The Wilson Family have dedicated their lives to supporting marginalized communities, speaking out for social justice, and fighting for equal rights. Their advocacy has been rooted in the belief that every person deserves a voice and should have the resources and support needed to thrive.
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The Wilson Family Advocacy Scholarship is awarded to a student who demonstrates a strong ethic, and a passion for advocacy, social justice, and making a tangible difference in the lives of others. The recipient should exemplify the same unwavering commitment to championing the rights of underrepresented groups, whether through activism, volunteer work, or community involvement. This scholarship aims to support future leaders in healthcare, law, public policy, or any field dedicated to improving the lives of individuals through advocacy and systemic change.
The Mary Clayton-Long Compassion Scholarship
This scholarship honors the memory of Mary Clayton-Long, a woman who, despite facing personal challenges, embodied the values of compassion, charity, and service. Though she was never able to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse, her generosity and dedication to others were evident in all aspects of her life. She lived by the Catholic principles of love and care for others, offering support to those in need with kindness and humility.
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The Mary Clayton-Long Compassion Scholarship is awarded to a student who demonstrates not only academic promise but also a deep commitment to serving others. The recipient should reflect the same spirit of compassion and selflessness that defined Mary Clayton-Long's life, whether through volunteerism, acts of charity, or a passion for helping others. This scholarship seeks to support and inspire future healthcare professionals or community leaders who embody these same principles of service, kindness, and care for those in need.
Scholarship Recipient
Congratulations Ms. De’Ziyah Smalls
Major - Nursing | Minors - Psychology and Business Administration
School - University of South Carolina-Upstate | Class of 2027
In her personal essay, Ms. Smalls shared:
“Despite the pain and hospitalizations, I have pushed and remained determined to achieve my goals. Living with sickle cell disease has taught me resilience, patience, and empathy—qualities that have shaped my personal and academic growth.”
Scholarship Recipient
Congratulations Mr. Lunden Davis
Majors - Journalism and Digital Media
School - Marquette University | Class of 2025
In his personal essay, Mr. Davis shared:
"I look back on life and sometimes ponder what it would look like without sickle cell, but I know that the active pursuit of my dreams would not falter with or without it."
Scholarship Recipient
Congratulations Mr. Emmanuel Mensah
Major - Accounting
School - Harry S. Truman College with plans to enroll at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Class of 2027
In his personal essay, Mr. Mensah shared:
"Though the debilitating effects of this disease have hindered me to a certain degree, nevertheless, it has opened up a different gear of thinking, possibilities, and perspectives. I refused to depart from my goals."
Scholarship Recipient
Congratulations Mr. Malik Aro
Major - Public Health (Pre-Med)
School - St. Louis University | Class of 2025
In his personal essay, Mr. Aro shared:
"My desire to break down barriers and establish equitable healthcare systems was sparked by my own experiences with the differences in healthcare access in underprivileged communities."
