Ebony Scholars visit Stetson Law for annual college scholarship workshop

Contact Brandi Palmer
Communications Specialist
727-562-7381

Gulfport, Fla. – On Jan. 20, Stetson law professors and students invited local high school students from the Ebony Scholars club to the Gulfport campus to learn about preparing for the scholastic and financial rigors of a college education.

Stetson Professor Dorothea Beane partnered with Stetson’s Black Law Student Association to offer the weekend workshop. Seminar topics included “Funding Your College Education,” “Preparing for College and Beyond,” and “What Parents Need to Know About the Hidden Costs of College.”

The Ebony Scholar students and their families learned about computer-based research for scholarships in Stetson’s state-of-the-art law library.

“This program strengthens Stetson’s commitment to the community to support academic excellence,” said Professor Beane, who believes that mentoring can be key in shaping the futures of young people.

The Ebony Scholars program was started more than two decades ago by retired Pinellas educator Vyrle Davis to honor African-American students for their scholastic and community achievements and to challenge them to continue their education.

The Ebony Scholars program annually targets elementary school students who are recommended for awards. The students must maintain a 3.3 grade point average in middle school and a 3.0 average in high school to stay in the program. As 11th graders, they are invited to join the Ebony Scholars academic club, where they meet monthly to discuss career and college opportunities and social etiquette. They also complete an eight-week Toastmasters International youth leadership program to develop communication and leadership skills.

An annual luncheon in May honors graduating seniors and their parents. Various scholarship awards are available for the students.