Edna McGrowder Memorial Scholarship

Funded by

Ferguson

Eligibility Requirements

Education Level:

High school student

College Goals:

Will pursue a four-year degree

Immigration:

Immigrant or child of immigrants

GPA:

3.8 GPA or higher

Background:

Low-income, First-generation college student

Education Level:

College Goals:

Immigration:

GPA:

Background:

High school student

Will pursue a four-year degree

Immigrant or child of immigrants

3.8 GPA or higher

Low-income, First-generation college student

Mrs. Edna McGrowder was a beloved mother and grandmother who came from a pioneering family on the island of Jamaica.

Among her many achievements, Mrs. McGrowder was known for her devotion to her family. She worked hard to raise sons and daughters, and later, grandsons and granddaughters who went on to do great things of their own, both personally and professionally. One of the most important things to her, outside of a strong belief in God, was a belief in the transformative power of education. The significant impact she's made lives on in all the people she touched with her smile, her words, and her stories.

This scholarship seeks to honor the life of Edna McGrowder by continuing her mission of helping the next generation pursue their academic dreams.

Any low-income high school student with at least a 3.8 GPA who will pursue a four-year degree as a first-generation college student may apply for this scholarship opportunity if they are an immigrant or the child of immigrant parents.

To apply, tell us about a meaningful family, community, or personal experience that impacted your decision to pursue a college degree.

Selection Criteria:

Ambition, Drive, Impact

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Published December 30, 2025

Essay Topic

Describe a meaningful personal, family, or community experience that influenced your decision to pursue a college education.

400–600 words

Winners and Finalists

June 2026

Winners

Finalists

Northeast High School

Chapel Hill High School

Johnson & Wales University-Providence

Passaic Valley Regional High School

Winning Application

rebekah Powlette

Woodward AcademyAtlanta, GA

My name is Rebekah Powlette. I am the daughter of a Grenadian father and a Cuban mother, and will be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. College has always been part of my story. As a child, my parents spoke about it casually and often, treating it as an expected destination rather than a distant goal. I still remember being in third grade and hearing, “Rebekah, your room is a mess. Is this how it’s going to look when you’re in college?” Because of their constant encouragement, I never saw college as optional; it was a path I knew I would follow. I am an artist; there is not a day that goes by that I don’t create something. It’s one of the many ways I express myself. There was a time, however, when my art was my only voice and my road to college was almost derailed. An experience in middle school caused me to have extreme anxiety and depression. Thankfully, there was an angel at my school, her name was Ms. Hicks. Both she and my mother developed a multi-layered plan which included psychotherapy and art therapy. They were instrumental in my recovery. I believe everything happens for a reason. The compassionate, empathetic person I am today is a result of what happened. It also helped me find my purpose. One day, whether I am practicing as a Licensed Clinical Therapist (specializing in art therapy) or creating socially conscious animation, I will use visual storytelling to heal child and adolescent trauma. Growing up in the church, they often preached about finding one’s “purpose and calling.” As a tween, this pressured me, as I just wanted to get to high school. Once I arrived, I found my "happy place" through various clubs. There were also many opportunities to volunteer. It was while volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club that I truly became hooked. I love helping children with homework, playing games, and teaching them to express frustration through art rather than conflict. These social interactions feed my soul. As an only child, I always wanted siblings. I listen to them, share my story, and I believe I’ve made a difference in some of their lives. Oftentimes, when I interact with the kids, I say "one day when you're in college". I have always been very goal-oriented. My grades are a reflection of this. In high school, I have been on the Gold Honor Roll every year. You have to have a minimum GPA of 4.0. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and the American and Japanese Teachers’ Honor Society. I’ve studied Japanese for the past 5 years. I’ve just received all A’s for the Fall 2025 semester. I have had a wonderful high school experience. No one who knows me today would ever have guessed what I’ve been through. Winning this scholarship will give me the mental, emotional, and financial breathing room to adjust and succeed in my first year as a college freshman. I will use the money towards my books and other fees. My family is currently facing a new challenge as a result of my mother’s recent job loss. Your investment will have a direct impact on my future. I promise you, it will be bright. Thank you for taking the time to read my essay. I hope you have a wonderful day.