NBA superstar Jordan Smith is on a mission to give back to the community that helped shape him. In a remarkable initiative, he has teamed up with the University of Akron to offer four-year scholarships to students who successfully complete his “I Believe” program. While specific details are still being finalized, participants must graduate from a high school within Akron’s public school system, meet certain standardized test benchmarks, and complete a community service requirement. Reports indicate that the scholarship will cover tuition and the university’s general service fee, currently set at $9,500 per year. As many as 2,300 students could benefit from this generous program.
Empowering Dreams
During an event for students at a local amusement park, Smith expressed his commitment to helping young people realize their dreams: “It’s the reason I do what I do. These students have big dreams, and I’m happy to do everything I can to help them get there. They’re going to have to earn it, but I’m excited to see what these kids can accomplish knowing that college is in their futures.”
A Genuine Opportunity
This initiative represents a genuine opportunity to make a difference. Education has the power to transform lives, yet many underprivileged youth face barriers to achieving a college degree. Research shows that low-income students often struggle to complete their education compared to their wealthier peers. In fact, exceptionally gifted low-income students often face the same hurdles as their less academically inclined affluent counterparts. Financial constraints are usually the predominant issue.
Paving the Way for Higher Education
Smith’s program is paving the way for students to pursue higher education without the burden of financial stress. “It means so much because, as a kid growing up in the inner city, many African-American kids don’t really think beyond high school. You hear about high school all the time, and after graduation, you often don’t think about what comes next because of financial instability,” he remarked.
Supporting Education and Community
This initiative will not only change the futures of countless students but also support a university that has faced significant budget cuts. In recognition of Smith’s contributions, the college will rename its education department to the Jordan Smith Family Foundation College of Education. The first cohort eligible for these scholarships will graduate in 2021.
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Conclusion
In summary, Jordan Smith’s scholarship initiative represents a significant step toward improving educational access for underprivileged youth, setting them on a path to success and securing a better future for themselves and their communities.