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Delories Thompson Scholarship

Funded by
user profile avatar
Marcus Thomas
$1,000
2 winners, $500 each
Awarded
Application Deadline
Dec 16, 2025
Winners Announced
Jan 16, 2026
Education Level
Undergraduate
Eligibility Requirements
Education Level:
Undergraduate student
Race:
Black/African American
Institution Type:
HBCU

Historically Black Colleges and Universities are changing the game for many college students, providing more equitable and inclusive opportunities for many minority students. 

HBCUs are often more affordable than other colleges, costing 28% less than comparable schools. As a result, more students are able to focus on their studies and maintain financial security while attending. Altogether, HBCUs produce nearly one-fifth of African American graduates despite making up just 3% of American colleges and universities.

This scholarship aims to support African American students who are pursuing higher education at Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Any Black undergraduate student studying at an HBCU may apply for this scholarship opportunity.

To apply, tell us what you want to do in the future or define what being Black means to you.

Selection Criteria:
Ambition, Need, Boldest Bold.org Profile
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Published June 25, 2025
Essay Topic

In 250 words, please share what you want to do with your career in the future and define what being black means to you and/or why you chose to go to an HBCU.

200–250 words

Winners and Finalists

Winning Applications

Minaya Williams
North Carolina A & T State UniversityRaleigh, NC
As a first-generation college student my future career is rooted in service, advocacy, and justice. Growing up in a single-parent household with my absent father due to incarceration, and with a mother who fought tirelessly to make ends meet, I witnessed firsthand the sacrifices required to survive and succeed. These experiences shaped my decision to pursue a Pre-Law path, with the long-term goal of becoming a lawyer who serves and protects individuals and communities that are often unheard, misunderstood, or overlooked. I want to use the law not just as a profession but as a tool to create equity and meaningful change. Being Black, to me, means resilience, responsibility, and pride. It means honoring the strength of those who came before me while committing to uplift those who will come after. My identity has taught me the importance of community, which is reflected in my dedication to volunteering at food banks, serving in my church’s children’s ministry, and tutoring young students. These experiences reinforce my belief that access to support, resources, and guidance can change lives. I chose to attend an HBCU because I wanted an environment where my culture is celebrated and my potential is affirmed. At North Carolina A&T, I am surrounded by excellence, leadership, and representation that motivate me to aim higher. Being part of an HBCU has strengthened my confidence, sharpened my purpose, and prepared me to pursue my career goals with integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to justice.
Malachi Batiste
Bowie State UniversityVacherie, LA
As a young man, I have dreamed of building a career that not only provides for my family but also protects and uplifts my community. Losing my uncle in a tragic accident reminded me how short life can be, and it pushed me to chase my dreams with determination. That experience shaped my decision to pursue a degree in cybersecurity and finance at Bowie State University. My goal is to work in cybersecurity, defending people, businesses, and communities from digital threats. In today’s world, technology is everywhere, and I want to make sure it is safe for everyone—especially families and small businesses that don’t always have the resources to protect themselves. At the same time, with my background in finance, I hope to teach others about building stability and wealth, because I know how financial strength can change the direction of a family and a community. To me, being Black means carrying both the challenges and the triumphs of those who came before me. It means standing tall with pride, knowing that I represent resilience, creativity, and excellence. Choosing to attend an HBCU was an easy decision for me. At Bowie State, I am surrounded by professors and peers who look like me, inspire me, and push me to be my best. It is a place where my culture is valued and my future is being prepared. As a young Black man, I believe my purpose is clear: to honor my past, serve my present, and build a stronger future.
Dillon Jennings
Jackson State UniversityLexington, MS
When I was in 9th grade (via online), I attended Jackson State University Summer Engineering Program. I learned a lot and it changed my mind set about the engineering program and the university. The program solidified my major as that of an engineer. Actually, I won an extra $200 for building and explaining the bridge I made. I learned from the best and was surrounded by the best students. I saw, firsthand, how an HBCU can positively impact a young African American’s mind. What I hear nonstop is the pride and joy they have for their perspective schools. They joke with each other but they have pride in the HBCU institution and do not like it when other universities come in and talk. My basketball coach told me how his HBCU is a tight knit community within itself. Everyone knows each other and it is nothing but love and respect throughout the university. My science teacher told me that at Jackson State, you are not just a number, her professor believed in her and in every student. Regardless, I will be ready but I would rather be ready at a university that treats me as a person and care about my well-being (not to suggest that others do or will not). I come from a small tight knit family, school and community. I want to feel what my Principal and some of my teachers feel about their HBCUs, a sense of pride in their school and in my race.
Simone Lewis
Norfolk State UniversityNorfolk, VA
Kennedy shorter
North Carolina A & T State UniversityRosharon, TX

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FAQ

When is the scholarship application deadline?

The application deadline is Dec 16, 2025. Winners will be announced on Jan 16, 2026.