Michael Pride, Jr/ProjectEX Memorial Scholarship

Humanitarian service has been a consistent part of my life, shaped by both lived experience and intentional choice. As a Black male pursuing a Master of Social Work, I understand firsthand the importance of presence, compassion, and advocacy within communities that are often underserved and overlooked. My commitment to service is rooted in meeting people where they are, especially during moments of struggle, transition, and vulnerability. Currently, I serve through my clinical internship with MHMR, working directly with individuals facing substance use disorders, mental health challenges, and the long-term effects of trauma. In this role, I help facilitate group sessions, provide emotional support, and assist clients in developing healthier coping strategies. Many of the individuals I work with feel unseen or written off by society. My role is not only to provide structure and guidance, but to remind them of their worth and capacity for growth. Often, the most meaningful service I provide is simply being a consistent, nonjudgmental presence—someone who listens, affirms, and believes in their ability to move forward. Outside of formal settings, I regularly engage in informal humanitarian acts within my community. Friends, family members, and peers often reach out to me during difficult times because they know I will listen without judgment and respond with honesty and empathy. As a veteran and father, I also model emotional openness and accountability, encouraging young people—especially Black men—to seek help, express their emotions, and redefine strength in healthy ways. These everyday acts of service, though quiet, are powerful in helping shift perspectives around mental health and support. My educational goals are directly tied to expanding my ability to give back. Through earning my MSW, I am developing the clinical, ethical, and leadership skills necessary to advocate effectively for individuals and families impacted by mental health and substance use challenges. My long-term goal is to work in community-based and clinical settings where I can support underserved populations, mentor young Black men, and help reduce stigma surrounding mental health care. I also plan to contribute to program development and policy advocacy aimed at increasing access to culturally responsive services. Michael Pride Jr.’s legacy of showing up for others—even during his own difficult moments—deeply resonates with me. His commitment to uplifting those around him reflects the values I strive to live by daily. This scholarship would not only support my educational journey, but also strengthen my capacity to continue serving my community with purpose, integrity, and compassion. I am committed to honoring that legacy by using my education and life experiences to create lasting, positive impact for others

My name is Jalen Thymes, and I am a recent graduate from Hampton University. After obtaining my degree in sociology, I knew that I wanted to pursue higher education and work towards providing support for my community. I want to become a social worker to give back to the African American community, particularly in the area of mental health. Growing up during a time when mental health was not openly discussed in our community, I witnessed firsthand how deeply it affected Black men from their teenage years through their elder years, and how it impacted previous generations. I also saw the serious consequences that often followed when these struggles were left unaddressed. Many Black men carry an immense weight on their shoulders. The pressure of simply existing in a society that frequently overlooks or misunderstands their struggles is overwhelming. This burden often leads to unaddressed mental health challenges that can silently shape and limit their lives. My goal as a social worker is to help change that. I aim to introduce new resources and policies, and to bring greater awareness to mental health within the Black community. Mental health is a serious issue that demands both urgency and compassion. I want to challenge the harmful stereotype that Black men don’t need help, that we can and should endure it all alone. This mindset too often prevents us from accessing the care we truly need and deserve. Although more conversations are happening and more resources are becoming available, it’s still not enough to fully uplift the community. That’s why I plan to collaborate not only with like-minded individuals but also with people from diverse backgrounds to foster stronger support systems. My goal is to foster a sense of community, healing, and belonging, not only for African Americans but for everyone who needs support. As part of my journey, I chose Columbia University to gain the tools, insight, and training necessary to become an effective advocate and change agent. I’ve chosen policy practice as my specialization because I believe that systemic change begins with policy. This focus will enable me to understand better how to advocate for essential resources at the local, state, and federal levels. I plan to partner with nonprofit organizations and other advocacy groups to build momentum across these platforms. My mission begins with Black men, but it extends far beyond to create a world where every individual has access to the mental health support they need.