In October 2015, at the State of Black UC Forum, African American students expressed the need for financial support to pursue study-abroad and international co-op opportunities, aiming to enhance their competitiveness in the job market. Responding to this, the African American Alumni Affiliate (4A) volunteer board took action.
In 2017, the board established the Shani Scholarship, named after the Swahili word meaning "to travel," to assist students in covering the costs of international experiences. Over the past three years, nine students have collectively received $6,000 to study in countries such as Ethiopia, South Africa, France, Portugal, India, Botswana, and the United Kingdom.
The 4A volunteer board is now seeking assistance in achieving this year's goal of raising $10,000 for the Shani Scholarship. Your generous contribution will provide underrepresented students with a transformative opportunity: to explore different countries and cultures, preparing them for success in the global workforce. Your support will not only help us reach our annual goal but also enable us to increase both the number and amount of awards given each year.
For inquiries, please contact Maurice B. Stewart '16, Director, Alumni Engagement, Inclusive Excellence, at maurice.stewart@foundation.uc.edu or call (513) 556-4312.
Covers the costs of vaccinations needed to build a Habitat for Humanity home in Costa Rica