Celebrating Jamaican Excellence: The 2024 JHUAN Scholarship Awards
In a heartwarming celebration of academic achievement and cultural pride, twenty-six students of Jamaican descent at Howard University are set to receive a significant boost to their educational journeys. Thanks to the Jamaican Howard University Affinity Network (JHUAN), these scholars will share in over $100,000 in scholarship awards, each receiving $4,000 to support their studies.
A Night to Remember
Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 13! The scholarship winners will be honored at HUes of Blue, JHUAN’s annual fundraiser, now in its seventh year. This vibrant event not only recognizes the scholarship recipients but also pays tribute to two distinguished Jamaicans with Impact Awards. These awards celebrate individuals who have made remarkable contributions through professional achievements, leadership, and community service.
Who Qualifies?
The scholarships are specifically aimed at Jamaican-born students or those with Jamaican parents who maintain a grade-point average of 3.0 or higher and are enrolled full-time at Howard University. This initiative is designed to empower Jamaican students, providing them with greater access to educational opportunities and resources.
A Keynote to Inspire
This year’s fundraiser will be hosted by Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson. He will deliver the keynote address and present the scholarships, emphasizing the importance of education and community support.
“As an alumnus who has benefited greatly from Howard University, it is important that we look for ways to support our academic institutions and pay it forward,” shared JHUAN President Don Christian, who is also a member of Howard’s Board of Trustees. His passion for uplifting Jamaican students is palpable. “JHUAN exists to inspire our students to dream more, learn more, and become more. That is what we hope to inculcate with the help of our partners, donors, and academic institutions.”
A Legacy of Support
Since its inception in 2018, JHUAN has awarded a remarkable 115 scholarships, totaling $463,000. This financial lifeline has been crucial for many Jamaican students at Howard, allowing them to focus on their studies without the burden of financial stress. The demand for scholarships has surged, with applications increasing by 75% and fundraising efforts growing by an impressive 39% annually. This trend highlights the urgent need for continued financial support in the community.
Honoring Trailblazers
At the September 13 event, JHUAN will also honor Arlene Isaacs-Lowe, an independent director for Compass Group PLC, and Christopher Williams, former CEO of NCB Capital Markets. Both have played pivotal roles in transforming the Caribbean financial services sector, making them deserving recipients of the Impact Awards.
A Vision Realized
JHUAN was born from the collaborative vision of Jamaica’s former ambassador to the United States, Audrey Marks, and Howard University’s 17th president, Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick. Together, they aimed to enhance support for Jamaican students and appointed Don Christian as the founding chairman to lead this vital initiative.
As the community gears up for this exciting event, one can’t help but wonder: What new heights will these scholarship recipients reach with the support of JHUAN? The future looks bright for Jamaican students at Howard University, and the journey is just beginning.