Making a Difference: First Generation Students - Pursuing Their Dreams
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Posted By: Reginald Culpepper on June 15, 2017 FEATURED Content Shirley Townsend is a first-generation college student at Fayetteville State University in Fayetteville, N.C. For her first year, “the experience has been very rewarding.” Townsend says, “I was able to learn life skills and also gain beneficial relationships that would later help me become a successful young professional.” Glen Best, another first generation scholar, is a graduate of Saint Paul’s College in Lawrenceville, Va. He says he could not have succeeded without tremendous mentors and academic advisers. Says Best, “They fostered an environment of excellence and instilled a sense of accomplishment in every student. They made us believe that the “College on the Hill” was the giant slayer among colleges and universities in academics.” For Samantha Boyd, going to college never seemed like a reality. She grew up with parents “who struggled with addition.” Even though the alumna of South Carolina State University in Greenville, S.C. received some encouragement, she had lots of support. “My village consisted of impactful teachers, family and mentors. I oftentimes was singled out because my love for learning. When I was finally surrounded by young black men and women who shared that same thirst for knowledge and success, I became comfortable in my skin.” You can support future first generation students, like Townsend, Best and Boyd, by donating to the Tom Joyner Foundation – Denny’s First Generation College Scholarship Fundraiser Road to Success. You’ve got a chance to help a first-generation college student pursue their dreams – today. If you make a donation, you also can receive a 20% discount coupon from Denny’s and FREE breakfast on your birthday. Here are three ways you can show your love:
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Reginald Culpepper
President, Fulfillment and Web Services, HBCUCONNECT Clark Atlanta University class of 1998 Member Since September 2000 |
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