Edward Dorsey, Jr. Memorial Scholarship

As a Black woman studying both STEM and Business Economics, my education is not only an avenue for personal growth but also a platform to help build a better path for Black people in the business world. I have observed the systemic barriers that disproportionately affect Black individuals in business, from limited access to leadership roles to financial inequities. These challenges have fueled my passion for making a meaningful impact by leveraging the tools I am gaining in my education to break down these barriers and create opportunities for Black professionals. A key challenge in the business world is the underrepresentation of Black individuals in leadership positions. This lack of diversity not only affects decision-making but also limits mentorship opportunities, career advancement, and overall representation in industries that shape the economy. My goal is to enter the business world as an advocate for diversity, inclusion, and representation. I plan to work toward dismantling the barriers that prevent Black people from rising to leadership roles, ensuring that there is equal access to opportunities for career growth. By doing so, I hope to inspire other Black professionals to reach their full potential and occupy spaces where they have historically been excluded. Another important aspect of my vision is supporting Black entrepreneurship. Black entrepreneurs face numerous challenges in starting and growing businesses, including limited access to capital, networks, and resources. Through my education, I aim to contribute to initiatives that increase access to business support and funding for Black entrepreneurs. This could include advocating for policies that encourage investment in minority-owned businesses or working with organizations that provide mentorship, networking, and technical assistance to Black entrepreneurs. By empowering Black business owners, we can help create a more equitable economic landscape that benefits not only Black communities but society as a whole. Furthermore, I am committed to mentoring and supporting Black students and young professionals who are pursuing careers in business. Representation in education is critical for inspiring the next generation of Black leaders. Through mentorship programs, outreach initiatives, and partnerships with organizations focused on business and STEM education, I hope to guide and encourage Black students to pursue careers in business. As a mentor, I want to help them navigate the complexities of the business world, build networks, and overcome the challenges they may face due to systemic inequalities. Additionally, my background in STEM and data science provides me with the skills to address the intersection of technology and business. In today’s rapidly evolving economy, technology is reshaping every industry, yet Black people are still underrepresented in tech. I aim to bridge the gap by promoting STEM education within Black communities and advocating for greater inclusion of Black voices in technology. By supporting initiatives that increase Black participation in tech and business innovation, I hope to ensure that the future of business is shaped by a diverse range of perspectives. Long-term, I envision myself in a position of leadership where I can directly influence business practices and policies that prioritize diversity and inclusion. I aim to work in a role where I can advocate for structural changes that increase Black representation at the highest levels of business, ensuring that corporate policies promote equity, access, and fair treatment for Black professionals. Through strategic decision-making, I will contribute to the dismantling of inequities within organizations, driving more inclusive practices and creating lasting change in the business world. Ultimately, I plan to use my education to create a more inclusive business world that not only recognizes the value of diversity but actively fosters it.

As a rising sophomore at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), I have already witnessed the power of education in transforming lives. From my involvement in the Minority Leadership Scholars club in high school to my current roles in the campus activities board and the Business Living Learning Community, I have always been committed to using my education to uplift others, particularly in the Black community. This commitment will continue as I pursue a degree in business administration with the goal of creating pathways for Black people in the business world. Growing up in Orlando, I saw firsthand the challenges that Black entrepreneurs and professionals face. My mother, a small business owner, often struggled with limited access to resources and networks that are crucial for business growth. Inspired by her perseverance, I made it my mission to leverage my education to address these systemic barriers. At FAMU, I have taken courses that delve into the economic and social factors affecting minority communities, and I have applied this knowledge through internships and campus leadership roles. One significant way I plan to use my education is by establishing mentorship programs that connect Black students and young professionals with experienced business leaders. These programs will provide guidance, support, and networking opportunities that are often inaccessible to those from underrepresented backgrounds. My experience as the senior class vice president in high school and as the treasurer of the upcoming Orlando club at FAMU has equipped me with the organizational skills necessary to launch and sustain such initiatives. Additionally, I aim to advocate for policies that promote diversity and inclusion within corporate structures. During my internship as a campaign manager, I developed skills in communication and advocacy that I will use to influence business practices and policies. By promoting the benefits of a diverse workforce and inclusive leadership, I hope to create environments where Black professionals can thrive. In my sophomore year, I am also focusing on community service, particularly projects that support Black-owned businesses. As a member of the community service committee for the campus activities board, I have organized events that raise awareness and funds for these businesses. These initiatives not only provide immediate support but also foster a sense of solidarity and empowerment within the community. My education at FAMU is not just about acquiring knowledge; it is about using that knowledge to create real, tangible change. By continuing to engage in leadership roles, community service, and advocacy, I am committed to building a better path for Black people in the business world. My ultimate goal is to see a future where Black entrepreneurs and professionals have equal opportunities to succeed and where their contributions are recognized and valued. In conclusion, my journey at FAMU is just the beginning of a lifelong commitment to empowering the Black community through business. I believe that by creating mentorship programs, advocating for inclusive policies, and supporting Black-owned businesses, I can make a meaningful impact. With a strong educational foundation and a passion for social justice, I am dedicated to building a brighter future for Black people in the business world.