Embracing Kwanzaa and Opportunities: Scholarships for African American Students in 2025
As we step into a new year, it’s a perfect time to honor the values of Kwanzaa and celebrate opportunities for growth, education, and community upliftment. This blog explores the seven principles of Kwanzaa and connects them with scholarships available for African American students in January and February 2025. Let’s start the year off strong by embracing the spirit of Kwanzaa and pursuing your academic goals.
The Seven Principles of Kwanzaa (Nguzo Saba)
Kwanzaa, celebrated from December 26 to January 1, emphasizes seven guiding principles that resonate deeply with academic and personal growth:
Umoja (Unity): Strengthening connections within the community.
Kujichagulia (Self-Determination): Defining and naming ourselves while standing tall in our identity.
Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility): Building and supporting our community together.
Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics): Supporting businesses and initiatives that benefit the collective.
Nia (Purpose): Committing to the collective vocation of community building.
Kuumba (Creativity): Leaving our communities more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited them.
Imani (Faith): Believing in our people, teachers, leaders, and the righteousness of our struggle.
These principles can inspire you as you seek scholarships that align with your identity, values, and dreams.
Scholarships for African American Students Due in December 2024
Inspire Our Future Scholars Program
Sponsor: Colgate-Palmolive | UNCF
Amount: Up to $8,000
Closing Date: December 4, 2024 – extended to December 27, 2024
Description: Scholarship is open to current undergraduate sophomore students with at least a 2.7 GPA. Applicant must have demonstrated, unmet financial need as verified by their college or university.
GFOA Scholarships
Sponsor: Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA)
Amount: Varies
Closing Date: December 31, 2024
Description: Scholarships are open to students who plan to pursue a career in state/provincial or local government finance. Multiple scholarships available with different requirements. See website for details. In addition to the general scholarship, there is a scholarship specifically to minority students.
HBCYOU Scholarship
Sponsor: Procter & Gamble | HBCU
Amount: Up to $2,500
Closing Date: December 31, 2024
Description: Scholarship is open to full-time students who have at least a 3.0 GPA who are enrolled as an undergraduate student at any U.S. located, accredited, four-year college or university.
Philadelphia Flyers Rising Leadership Scholarship
Sponsor: Philadelphia Flyers | UNCF
Amount: Up to $2,500
Closing Date: December 31, 2024
Description: Scholarship is open to African American current first year college freshmen from the Philadelphia region with at least a 3.0 GPA and have demonstrated involvement with the sport of Ball or Hockey.
Scholarship for Students of Color
Sponsor: CollegExpress
Amount: $1,500.00
Closing Date: December 31, 2024
Description: Scholarship is open to students of color who are U.S. citizens and 13 years of age or older. Applicant must answer the following question in just one sentence: “What is your dream career to pursue after high school?”
Scholarships for African American Students Due in January 2025
Fidelity Scholars Program
Sponsor: UNCF | Fidelity
Amount: Varies
Closing Date: January 30, 2025
Description: Scholarship is open to students ages 16 to 24 who are permanent residents of Florida, Massachusetts, North Carolina, New Jersey, Texas, New Mexico, Rhode Island, Kentucky, Ohio, Colorado, or the District of Columbia. Applicant must plan to attend a four-year accredited, non-profit college or university as a first-time, incoming freshman in their permanent state or residence.
GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship Program
Deadline: January 12, 2025
Award Amount: $10,000 renewable (up to $40,000)
Eligibility: High school seniors who exhibit leadership, drive, integrity, and citizenship. Open to diverse candidates.
Washington Crossing Foundation Scholarship
Deadline: January 15, 2025
Award Amount: $500 - $5,000
Eligibility: High school seniors planning careers in government service, with strong leadership skills.
Mensa Foundation Scholarship
Deadline: January 15, 2025
Award Amount: Varies
Eligibility: High school seniors and college students. Applicants must write an essay describing academic and career goals.
Profile in Courage Essay Contest
Deadline: January 17, 2025
Award Amount: Up to $10,000
Eligibility: High school students (grades 9-12) who write an essay about political courage.
National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) Scholarships
Deadline: January 31, 2025
Award Amount: Varies
Eligibility: Various scholarships for students in specific fields such as medicine, law, and history.
Hillel International Scholarships
Deadline: January 31, 2025
Award Amount: Varies
Eligibility: Jewish students involved with Hillel; inclusive of African American Jewish students.
United States JCI Senate Foundation Scholarship
Deadline: January 13, 2025
Award Amount: $1,000
Eligibility: Graduating high school seniors continuing their education at an accredited post-secondary institution.
Thurgood Marshall College Fund Scholarships
Deadline: January 31, 2025
Award Amount: Varies
Eligibility: African American students attending HBCUs with strong academics and financial need.
Scholars Helping Collars Scholarship
Deadline: January 15, 2025
Award Amount: Up to $1,500
Eligibility: High school seniors who demonstrate an active role in animal advocacy or community service.
SCHOLARSHIPS DUE IN FEBRUARY 2025
Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship
Deadline: February 1, 2025
Award Amount: Up to $30,000 (over 4 years)
Eligibility: African American high school seniors showing leadership potential and dedication to community service.
UNCF General Scholarship Program
Deadline: February 15, 2025
Award Amount: Varies
Eligibility: African American students enrolled at UNCF-member colleges or universities.
The National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs (NANBPWC) Scholarship
Deadline: February 28, 2025
Award Amount: Varies
Eligibility: African American women demonstrating academic achievement and community service.
Tips for Scholarship Success
Embody Kwanzaa Principles: Highlight your dedication to community (Ujima), creativity (Kuumba), and purpose (Nia) in your essays.
Stay Organized: Use a calendar to track deadlines and submission requirements.
Seek Guidance: Reach out to mentors, counselors, or organizations like UNCF for support.
A Bright New Year Awaits
As we honor Kwanzaa’s values and enter 2025, let’s seize every opportunity to grow and thrive. These scholarships are more than financial awards; they are stepping stones toward achieving your dreams and uplifting your community. If you have questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can make this year a success.
Happy Kwanzaa and best wishes for a prosperous 2025!