DIASPORA | Jamaican Students at Howard University Awarded US $102,000 in Scholarships

WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2024 - Twenty-five students of Jamaican heritage  attending Howard University last Saturday were the recipients of  scholarships valued at US $102,000 from the  Jamaica Howard University Affinity Network (JHUAN). Each awardee received US $4,000 to assist in  offsetting their tuition requirements. 

In addition, two students Gabrielle Clarke and Bleyne Montaque were  recognized with the inaugural Bancroft S. Gordon Scholarship Award which celebrates excellence in athletics, academics, leadership, and community engagement. The award honors the late Bancroft Gordon, a Howard Alumni and football player.

The scholarship awards were presented to the students by Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States HE Audrey Marks and Chairman of JHUAN, Don Christian at the organization's 6th HUes of Blue fundraising event.  

Ambassador Marks said JHUAN has been a beacon of hope and a pillar of pride for the recipients of this unique scholarship programme.

She said since it began operating in 2018, JHUAN has awarded eighty scholarships valued at US$356-thousand dollars, and was pleased to see the evolution of its impact over the years.

Ambassador Marks pointed out that the mission of the JHUAN organization went beyond financial support and included mentorship, life coaching and career development.

She however challenged the recipients not to for get the source from which came their assistance, charging them to consider giving back once they have succeeded in life by supporting the JHUAN organization.

JHUAN's Chairman and Howard University Board Member, Donald Christian, said, "I am honored to be a part of a community that supports Jamaican students who have navigated challenges to pursue their studies. As an alumnus, it is critical that we identify ways by which we can bolster our academic institutions while supporting our students."

Fundraising efforts continue through the end of the year and donations are still being accepted for the scholarship fund at https://www.jhuan.org/become-a-donor/.

In his message, Howard University President Dr. Ben Vinson lll, said “the ties between Howard University and Jamaica remains remarkably strong. Once again Jamaica is one of the top sources of international students in this year’s entering undergraduate class and is the leader for students from the Caribbean. Our Jamaican students, alumni and families continue to contribute to the wonderful diversity that is a hallmark of the Mecca.”

HUes of Blue for the second year, recognized exemplary Howard Alumni with JHUAN's IMPACT AWARD for distinction in professional achievements, leadership qualities, and service to their communities.

The 2024 IMPACT Award was presented  to Jamaican architect Isiaa Madden, a graduate of Howard University's School of Architecture with an exemplary career in launching innovative designs.

In addition, Entrepreneurs and philanthropists Heather and Kevin Reid also received the IMPACT AWARD for their work with the Blue Lagoon Foundation.

A total of sixty thousand US-dollars were donated towards the scholarship fund at the fundraiser.  Of this amount, Ambassador Marks, one of the founders of the organization, donated US$15-thouand from her Jamaica’s Promise Foundation.

Former President of Howard University and co-founder of the JUHAN organization donated $US 25-thousand in recognition of Isiaa Madden receiving the HUes of Blue IMPACT award.

JHUAN was established in 2018 with the mission of serving the Jamaican student community at Howard University through scholarships, mentorships and career development. The organization is led by a 17-member Board that provides strategic leadership and oversight.

-30-