1st Place Award Winner – $1,250 Book Scholarship
Samantha Cooper is a senior at STAR Early College School at Erasmus Hall Campus where she is a member of the Yearbook Committee, and the Young Women’s Empowerment Club. In addition to her course load at STAR Early College School, she also takes classes at Brooklyn College through the Early College Program. Samantha has already received 12.5 college credits, and maintains a 3.8 GPA, this on top of her 93 average at STAR Early College School. Samantha plans to attend Syracuse University and major in Public Relations. Stacy Goulbourne, her guidance counselor, says, “Samantha’s teachers and classmates have grown to respect and admire her for her kind heart, diligence and commitment to learning. This respect comes from her willingness to help others, her motivation to learn and the discipline she bring daily to the classroom.”
2nd Place Award Winner – $1000 Book Scholarship
Takisha Morancy is a senior at William H. Maxwell CTE High School where she is a peer mediator and a delegate of the Student CTE Advisory Committee. With a 91 average, she is the valedictorian of her graduating class, and has been an honor roll student all four years. Outside of school Takisha is an intern in the cardiology and recreation therapy departments of Brookdale Hospital and serves as the New York State President of Health Occupations Students of America. Takisha plans to attend SUNY Buffalo where she will major in biology/pre-med. Jocelyn Badette, her principal, says, “Takisha is an extremely bright and conscientious young lady. She is a natural leader and a young lady of high integrity.”
3rd Place Award Winner – $750 Book Scholarship
Lavaisa Ezell is a senior at Medgar Evers College Preparatory School where she is a member of the school band. This past year she enrolled in the SMART Scholars Program at Medgar Evers College, where she also takes classes. She will earn 12 college credits upon graduating from high school. Outside of school, Lavaisa is the President of the Eta Nu Sigma Alumnae Chapter’s Rhoer Club, an affiliate group of the Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. As a member of the Rhoer Club, Lavaisa is involved in various community service projects. She is also an avid chess player and seasoned clarinetist. She plans to attend Penn State University where she will major in Elementary Education. Taniqua Hunter, Basileus of Eta Nu Sigma Alumnae Chapter and Lavaisa’s mentor, says, “she started off as a shy young woman, trying to find her place in this world. With encouragement and guidance, Lavaisa exudes strength and confidence. Lavaisa now serves as a leader and role model to others. “
