The Jamaica Howard University Affinity Network (JHUAN) has announced the distribution of US $102,000 in scholarships to 25 students of Jamaican heritage attending Howard University. The recipients will be honored at JHUAN’s 6th annual fundraising event, HUes of Blue, on Saturday, September 21, 2024, in Washington, D.C.
Each student will receive US $4,000 to help offset their tuition costs. This year, two students will be recognized with the inaugural Bancroft S. Gordon Scholarship Award, which celebrates excellence in athletics, academics, leadership, and community engagement. The award honors the late Bancroft Gordon, a Howard alumnus and football player.
JHUAN Chairman and Howard University Board Member, Donald Christian, expressed his pride in supporting Jamaican students. “I am honored to be part of a community that supports Jamaican students who have navigated challenges to pursue their studies. As an alumnus, it is critical that we find ways to bolster our academic institutions while supporting our students,” he said.
Fundraising efforts for the scholarship fund continue through the end of the year, and donations can be made at https://www.jhuan.org/become-a-donor.
The event will be hosted by Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Her Excellency Audrey P. Marks, a co-founder and leading advocate of JHUAN, at her Chevy Chase residence.
For the second year in a row, HUes of Blue will also recognize outstanding Howard alumni with JHUAN’s IMPACT AWARD, honoring distinction in professional achievements, leadership, and community service. This year, the award will go to Jamaican architect and CEO of Design HQ, Isiaa Madden, a graduate of Howard University’s School of Architecture. Madden has had an exemplary career in the luxury and hospitality industry, working on projects such as Riu Hotels Jamaica, Excellence Oyster Bay, Hyatt Ziva and Zilara, Half Moon Resort, and Pinnacle Jamaica.
Entrepreneurs and philanthropists Heather and Kevin Reid will also receive the IMPACT AWARD for their work with the Blue Lagoon Foundation, an organization they co-founded to support philanthropic programs, including initiatives that help children in Jamaica further their education.
Since its founding in 2018, JHUAN has awarded 89 scholarships totaling US $356,000. The organization aims to support high-potential Jamaican students facing financial challenges through scholarships, mentorship, and career development. JHUAN is led by a 17-member board that provides strategic leadership and oversight.
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