Four Howard Community College Students Named Semifinalists for National Transfer Scholarship
Four Howard Community College (HCC) students—Carlton Allen, Zakiyyah Brown, Mudiwa Mawema, and Rafael Sampaio Brazil— have been named semifinalists for the highly competitive Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. The scholarships are awarded to community college students “who have demonstrated exceptional academic ability, leadership, service, and a determination to complete their bachelor’s degrees at top four-year institutions.”
"We are so proud of these scholars and the faculty and staff who support them in reaching the highest levels of academic success," said Daria J. Willis, President of Howard Community College. "These students will move on to excellence at some of the nation's most competitive four-year institutions but will always have community and a home here in Dragon Country."
The finalists will be announced in late spring. They could receive up to $55,000 annually for two to three years. In addition to financial assistance, finalists will receive college planning support, ongoing advising, and the opportunity to connect with fellow scholars.
“All four of these semi-finalists are outstanding members of the Howard Community College community, leaders in student government, athletics, and in the classroom,” said Brandon Bellamy, Associate Director of Completion Services at Howard Community College. “Being considered a semifinalist for this award is a huge accomplishment where all 1,600+ applicants brought stellar credentials and stories to be considered. We are proud of our students and look forward to supporting them on their pathways to success.”
HCC students were among 467 semifinalists selected out of 1,600 applicants.
Scholarship recipients can use the funds to cover tuition, books, fees, and living expenses. Last year, 60 finalists were awarded this generous scholarship, which varies based on their tuition and other financial assistance.
“Our Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship represents a lifeline for exceptional community college students to actualize their academic dreams,” said Giuseppe “Seppy” Basili, Executive Director of the Cooke Foundation. “This year’s semifinalists exemplify the extraordinary talent found within community colleges across America, and we’re excited to congratulate this group as we celebrate a quarter century of work as a Foundation.”