The Ubuntu Scholarship Program
Welcome to the Ubuntu Scholarship Program, dedicated to recognizing the achievements of graduating high school seniors and providing financial assistance as they continue their education in college.
Through our program, we aim to empower and uplift the next generation of leaders.
The Heart Behind Our Community
Named for the African concept of Ubuntu, which stresses the importance of community and shared humanity, the Ubuntu Scholarship Program was established in 2020 to support the belief that young people can progress further and succeed when a community stands behind them. A group of educators, community members, and alumni joined to support our scholars as they pursue their life goals through education.
Every year, we work to help graduating seniors of the Black diaspora find a sense of purpose in the work they do, and encourage them to stay rooted in serving their community as they grow. Along the way, we work to ease some of the financial weight and unseen pressures that too often stand between talent and opportunity.
Over the past 6 years, this commitment has grown into steady, meaningful impact. Eighteen Ubuntu Scholars have continued their education beyond high school, with the program remaining connected to their journeys along the way. To date, more than $130,000 in community-supported funding has helped ease financial barriers as students navigated college.
In June 2025, the first Ubuntu Scholar completed college as an honors graduate from Oregon State University. Since then, scholars have earned academic recognition, including Dean’s List and honor roll distinctions, with several maintaining GPAs above 3.9. Three of the scholars from 2022 & 2023 are on track to graduate in 2026! The Ubuntu committee continues to offer encouragement and connection as students carry the spirit of community forward.
How Our Scholarship Works
Every year, our committee opens the application process in early Spring and invites seniors to share their Ubuntu story, their life goals, and the work they've put into their education.
Students have about two months to gather what they need, including an academic transcript and a recommendation letter from an instructor, coach, or mentor.
Once applications close, we take our time reading through each one with care to select the Ubuntu finalists.
This small group of finalists is invited to interview with us. From there we select the students who will a multi-year Ubuntu Scholarship for college.*
At the end of the school year, in the beginning of June, scholars receive their awards certificates at the Ubuntu Graduation Ceremony.
We stay connected with our scholars throughout their journey, offering assistance, guidance, and support as they move toward their college graduation.
* Awards are funded over a four-year college career, based on satisfactory progress toward graduation, and are funded to the scholar's student account at their university.
Scholars We Support
K
S
Keilee S
2021
Nursing
JaCorey H
2021
Psychology
Jenna M
2023
Advertising & Marketing
Janiya M
2024
Pre-Law
Mattea H
2025
Undeclared
Eric S
2021
Organizational Development
Jade A
2022
Communications
Jalen W
2023
Communications
Mariah H
2024
Music
N
K
Nevaeh K
2025
Chemistry
D
D
Daujae D
2021
Undeclared
Alec S
2022
Mathematics
Jasira J
2023
Psychology
H
K
Haniyah K
2025
Pre-Med
K
S
Kayli S
2021
Drama
Siana B
2023
Fashion Design
Faith C
2023
Psychology
Tatiola S
2025
Film Production
Hear From Our Community & Scholars
Perspectives from students, parents, educators, and community members on the application process, available support, and what makes it easier for students to follow through.
Thank you for supporting our students in this community.
Donor
Thank you for making a difference! Keep up your good work.
Donor
I am proud to represent the Ubuntu Scholarship Program.
Ubuntu Scholar
I really like my professors!
Ubuntu Scholar
It's an honor to help these great kids.
Donor
I am so appreciative for the support towards my education.
Ubuntu Scholar
What Resources Are Available To You?
At Your School
In The Community
On the Internet
Support often starts where you already spend your time. Schools offer access to counselors, teachers, advisors, and programs connected to leadership, community service, and college planning. These resources can help with questions, recommendations, deadlines, and identifying opportunities that align with our scholarship requirements.
Many organizations and individuals in our community provide support related to service, leadership, mentoring, and college access. These may include nonprofits, youth programs, workshops, and events that help students build experience, find guidance, and prepare materials needed for applications. Take a look at a few key community resources below:
There are online resources that can help you understand the scholarship process, track deadlines, prepare materials, and strengthen your application. These include writing guides, planning tools, information sessions, and other digital portals that students can access on their own schedule. Make sure you are connected to the online resources below:
College & Career Advisor
Helps students plan next steps, review goals, and navigate college and career options.
School Counselor
Provides guidance on academics, recommendations, deadlines, and graduation requirements.
Afterschool Writing Center
Supports students with essays, personal statements, and writing revisions.
College Prep Programs
Offer workshops, advising, and preparation for college applications and readiness.
Community Centers
Connect students to local programs, services, and youth-focused opportunities.
Tutoring Groups
Provide academic support to strengthen coursework and subject understanding.
UNCF
Offers scholarships, college guidance, and resources supporting Black students.
Common Black College App
Allows students to apply to multiple HBCUs through one application.
Black College Expo
Connects students to colleges, scholarships, and college planning resources.
Your Scholarship Calendar
There are many important dates students and families should know about throughout the year and during the scholarship process. Our calendar shows important events, deadlines, and support opportunities so you can plan ahead, stay organized, and know when help is available.
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Info-sessions & meetings for parents & students
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Essay help sessions for scholarship writing
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Community service events & opportunities
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Application deadlines & required steps
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Important dates after applications are submitted
Get Scholarship Updates by Email
Sign up to receive timely updates related to the scholarship and student opportunities throughout the year.
Application Updates
Info Sessions
Important Deadlines
Essay Support
Community Events
Scholarship News
News & Community Updates
Ubuntu Scholars at a Glance
Take a look at the many directions Ubuntu Scholars are moving toward. They are pursuing a wide range of fields, earning academic recognition, and seeking experiences that broaden how they understand the world. Shared with care, and with each achievement belonging to the students themselves, these details give families, community members, and supporters a clearer picture of who the scholars are and the diverse goals they are carrying forward.
Scholars
Supported
Since 2021, 18 graduating seniors from High School have received direct scholarship or program support through The Ubuntu Scholarship Program.
Total Funds
Awarded
Since the program began, community funding has contributed $130,000 in direct financial support toward scholars’ college education.
Colleges
Attended
Ubuntu Scholars have enrolled in more than thirteen colleges, representing a broad mix of public, private, and mission-driven institutions.
Program
Years
The Ubuntu Scholarship Program has supported scholars consistently over five academic years, from 2021 through the 2025 graduating class.
College
Graduates
One Ubuntu Scholar from the earliest graduating cohort has completed college to date, graduating with honors from Oregon State University.
On Track
for 2026
Three Ubuntu Scholars are currently on track to complete their college degrees during the 2026 academic year.
Fields
of Study
Scholars are studying across 7+ academic fields including Pre-Law, Pre-Med, Chemistry, Mathematics, Psychology, Film Production, Fashion, & Music.
Career
Directions
Scholars have expressed interests across 6+ career directions, including higher ed, civil rights law, film, fashion, design, and medical professions.
Academic
Honors
Multiple Ubuntu Scholars have earned college-level academic honors, including Dean’s List and President’s Honor Roll recognition.