Tajia M. Perry was born on January 21, 1998, in Denver, Colorado, with so much stacked against her. Born prematurely and physically underdeveloped, medical professionals cautioned that she might never walk, might struggle to communicate, and would likely face lifelong learning difficulties, challenges and limitations.

But Tajia refused to be defined by limitation.

She not only walked, she ran.

She found her voice and used it boldly.

She didn’t just learn, she excelled.

Raised in Houston, Texas, Tajia became a vibrant young woman known for her resilience, humor, faith, and boundless joy. A speech and debate competitor, a Business Management graduate, and the 2022 commencement speaker at Blinn College in Bryan, TX during the height of the pandemic. She persevered even as her health challenges intensified.

Tajia knew firsthand that academic spaces are not always welcoming to those living with disabilities, health challenges, or other extraordinary circumstances. She believed deeply that every child deserves to be seen, supported, and celebrated. Her greatest dream was to become an educator, especially for children with learning disabilities. She fulfilled that calling as an early childhood teacher, pouring encouragement into every student she served.

No matter the challenge, she faced each with courage, perseverance and empathy. In her own words "I just kept swimming."

The Tajia M. Perry Scholarship honors her life by investing in students who embody her spirit of perseverance and purpose. Any African American, female undergraduate student in the Houston, Texas, or Denver, Colorado, area may apply for this scholarship opportunity if she has a learning difference, physical or mental health challenge, or another extraordinary circumstance. This scholarship exists to affirm, support, and uplift students who continue pursuing their education despite the challenges they face. Though Tajia’s time here was shorter than we wished, her impact was immeasurable. She was sunshine, steady, warm, and life-giving. Her laughter was joy in its purest form. Her voice was encouragement.

Through this scholarship, her dream continues.

To apply, write a short essay in response to the prompt below. Additionally, upload a photo of yourself.

Donor Profile: Perry

Perry

Donor since Feb, 2026

Contributions

Barry Ward

Scholarship

Total awards

Scholarships

Tajia M. Perry Memorial Scholarship

Deadline: Dec 19, 2026