Two HBCU Scholars have been chosen by The White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) from pg电子下载 State University.
Antoine Johnson Jr. and Frances Sade Lewis are among the 110 students in 77 HBCUs across America who have been recognized for their academic achievements, leadership potential, and community dedication.
The HBCU Scholars program is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year after having empowered more than 500 students since it started in 2014. Personal and professional development opportunities, mentorship, as well as networking are some of the areas that participants benefit from.
“This year’s 110 outstanding students exemplify Black excellence – and fill us with hope for the promise of tomorrow,” said Miguel Cardona, U.S Secretary of Education. “We couldn’t be prouder to support them on their journey,” said Miguel Cardona, U.S Secretary of Education.”
The competitive pool includes over 350 applicants from diverse disciplines such as science, technology, engineering math (STEM), humanities, social sciences and arts; hence the selection was drawn from a total of twenty-three American states and eleven different nations worldwide.
Antoine Johnson Jr., a sophomore from Clinton, La., is currently studying computer networking and information systems.
“I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for the opportunity to become a White House HBCU Scholar,” said Johnson. “It is truly an honor and privilege to be selected for such a prestigious program, and I am elated to have the chance to represent my school and community in this capacity.”
Johnson actively participates in campus life, serving as Mr. Freshman for the 2023-2024 academic year and recently elected as Mr. Sophomore for 2024-2025. He engages in various student organizations, including Student Support Services, Brave Ambassadors, Braves Dining Committee, NAACP, and as a University College Student Leader.
Frances Sade Lewis, a junior from Jackson, Miss., is a psychology pre-med major.
“I am very excited, honored, and humbled to be selected as not only an HBCU Scholar but also to be chosen to represent my university,” said Lewis. “I think this experience will contribute to my leadership capabilities and enhance my professional development for future endeavors. This opportunity inspires me to work with others who look like me to improve my HBCU Community and the challenges HBCUs face as a nation. Overall, I honestly cannot wait to grow in this role as a White House HBCU Scholar.”
Lewis participates in numerous campus organizations, including Student Support Services, Resident Assistance Life, NSLS, Dean’s Scholar, President’s Scholars, Alpha Chi Sigma Fraternity, Psychology Society, SNEA, and SSS Elev8 Book Club.
Throughout the year, Johnson, Lewis, and their fellow HBCU Scholars will engage in workshops, leadership development programs, and networking events designed to enhance their skills and expand their horizons. They will connect with industry leaders, policymakers, and program alumni, enriching their educational experience.
The HBCU Scholars program aligns with the U.S. Department of Education’s mission to “Raise the Bar.” It encourages students to lift their communities, unite others around student success, work to strengthen democracy, and grow the economy.
