We aim to target students who are much more than their GPA. In fact, data from the U.S. Department of Education shows a wide racial disparity in the grade point averages of bachelor’s degree recipients. Overall, just 4% of students of color have a 3.5 to 4 GPA. (Scholarship Statistics 2022 – US and Worldwide Data [updated] (thinkimpact.com)

We’re looking for students that are leaders in their communities and feel a sense of pride and accomplishment by giving back to their communities. The Generational Leaders Project will award two scholarships in the value of $6,000. Each scholar will be awarded $3,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year, paid out in the Fall and Spring.

Mission

To target and embolden students of color by closing the access gap and providing them with an equitable opportunity for success that they wouldn’t receive otherwise.

Vision

To empower students of color by providing them with the confidence and tools necessary to become powerful leaders in society, thereby creating individuals whose legacies will leave a profound impact for generations to come.

Issue Being Addressed:

Black and hispanic students encounter access gaps in higher education. White students have a 14.2% chance of getting a scholarship, while minority students have 11.2%. Getting into college is no longer enough, they are also less likely to graduate (Washington: The Education Trust,  2017). These startling gaps show that true equity for students of color in higher education means more than getting students to and through college; it also means providing equitable access to programs and scholarships that support their education.

Hi, I’m Kofi Asibey. I am a first-generation college student pursuing a BBA degree in Operations Information Management with a Data Analytics Minor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. I’m currently the vice president of Umass Brotherly Union; an organization based on bringing togetherness, networking, and providing a safe haven for men of color. I also serve as a treasurer for Brother and Sister in Christ; an organization that promotes the gospel of God. Alongside being involved in clubs I’m one of the hosts for Day by Day University; an on-campus podcast focused on advocating the importance of maintaining good mental health as a POC at a PWI. At home, I participate in donation programs to help the least fortunate and involved myself in many non-profit organizations geared towards helping kids, because I was once in the same shoes as them. Born and raised in Ghana, my mom taught me to work like there is no tomorrow and to always remember where I came from. These two lessons have stuck with me and have pushed me to be the best version of myself. Migrating to America at the age of 11 was something that was hard to adjust to mainly since I lived in a predominantly white town but I knew my worth and did not let anything stop me. I involved myself in school government in high school and the leadership traits I gained have solidified my role on campus.