Scholarship Details
Scholarship Details
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Albert & Hattie Thomas Award of Excellence $1,500 Scholarship
Albert & Hattie Thomas Award of Excellence $1,500 Scholarship
This scholarship honors both the Patriarch and Matriarch of the Thomas Family. Hailing from small towns in Georgia, Albert and Hattie ensured their children received the education they were unable to. As we continue this legacy, the Albert and Hattie Thomas Award of Excellence will be awarded to an incoming first-year college student who showcases academic excellence while striving for success and who not only exceeds expectations in academics but also serves their community.
Requirements
Incoming first-year college student
3.5 or higher GPA
Unofficial transcript showing your grades through the first semester of the current school year
Proof of college acceptance
Essay: The West African 'Griot' is a keeper of history and a teacher of the people. In your life, who has served as your 'Griot,' and what 'history' did they give you that changed the way you see yourself? In no more than 1,000 words, discuss how this sense of identity fuels your ambition to achieve academic greatness and serve as a leader for the next generation.**
Ralph Holback Beacon of Light $1,000 Scholarship
Ralph Holback Beacon of Light $1,000 Scholarship
This scholarship honors a faithful servant in Deacon Holback. He served as a deacon at Abyssinia Missionary Baptist Church in his hometown of Jacksonville, Florida for 53 years. Deacon Holback also proudly attended Edward Waters College, an HBCU in Jacksonville. This scholarship will be awarded to a student who works hard serving their community, excels academically and is an active member in their church. Special consideration for this scholarship is given to incoming first-year college students planning to attend an HBCU.
Requirements
Incoming first-year college student
2.7 or higher GPA
Unofficial transcript showing your grades through the first semester of the current school year
Proof of college acceptance
Essay: The concept of a 'watchman' in the Black community refers to those who keep a vigilant eye on the well-being and progress of the next generation. In no more than 1,000 words, describe a person in your church or local community who has acted as a watchman for your success. How has their belief in your potential fueled your resilience, and how do you plan to take up that mantle for others in the future?**
William "Bill" Thomas Athletic Achievement $1,000 Scholarship
William "Bill" Thomas Athletic Achievement $1,000 Scholarship
This scholarship honors everyone’s favorite coach. Coach Thomas was a proud two-time graduate of Tennessee State University, an HBCU in Nashville, Tennessee. Coach Thomas spent 46 years in higher education at two HBCUs - Tennessee State University and Texas Southern University. This scholarship will be awarded to a student who excels in academics and athletics. Special consideration for this Scholarship is given to incoming first-year college students planning to attend an HBCU.
Requirements
Incoming first-year college student
2.7 or higher GPA
Unofficial transcript showing your grades through the first semester of the current school year
Proof of college acceptance
Essay: Black athletes often navigate spaces where they are expected to perform at a higher standard while representing their entire community. In no more than 1,000 words, discuss a challenge or stereotype you encountered in your athletic career and how your faith or community values helped you overcome it. How did this experience sharpen your resolve to achieve academic excellence and professional success?**
Albert Thomas, Jr. Servant Leadership $1,000 Scholarship
Albert Thomas, Jr. Servant Leadership $1,000 Scholarship
This scholarship honors the captain of the Thomas family. Albert was a businessman at heart displaying hard work, perseverance, and impeccable service over a 50 year career in the fast food industry. He was also devoted to preserving legacy and tradition with an unwavering commitment to his family. This scholarship will be awarded to a student who embodies a positive attitude, unwavering dedication, and a strong work ethic. Special consideration for this scholarship is given to incoming first-year students planning to attend an HBCU.
Requirements
Incoming first-year college student
2.7 or higher GPA
Unofficial transcript showing your grades through the first semester of the current school year
Proof of college acceptance
Essay: Shirley Chisholm famously said, 'If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.' Servant leadership often means creating space for others where none existed before. In no more than 1,000 words, reflect on a time you advocated for a peer, a neighbor, or a cause that was being overlooked. How did using your voice to pull others 'to the table' shape your vision for your future career.**
Leon "Tom" Thomas Salute to Learning $1,000 Scholarship
Leon "Tom" Thomas Salute to Learning $1,000 Scholarship
This scholarship honors the oldest child in the Thomas family. Tom went against the “traditional” grain and paved his own career path and his own way through life. He served in the U.S. Air Force for 27 years. Throughout his life, he was a chef, food service manager, and completed a tour of duty serving during the Vietnam War. This scholarship will be awarded to a student who has decided to take a nontraditional approach to higher education by pursuing a non-four year degree at a trade school, community college, or junior college.
Requirements
Proof of acceptance or enrollment in a trade school, community college, or junior college
Essay: In no more than 1,000 words, tell us your story. Share a personal anecdote that highlights your motivation, resilience, or unique perspective. Discuss how the experience shaped your aspirations and goals.**
Notes for All Scholarships
*All applicants are required to submit their completed recommendation form(s) at the time they submit their application. Recommendation forms are scholarship specific and can be found in the requirements section for each scholarship above.
**We look forward to hearing from you! Please refrain from using AI to write your essay.
Students may apply to more than one scholarship, but no student may win more than one scholarship.
Click here to apply today! 2026 applications are due April 4.
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