Make A Difference
​Since 2016, the Scholarship Fund has raised more than $85,000 with the help of 200+ donor,  to push young women of color towards their goals of a college education, to help them fulfill their dreams of an enriched college experience and  to provide inspiration for them and their families to stay the course despite financial hardship.

The 2021/2022 Scholarship Program year will award scholarships to up to  18 young women of color from communities in Auburn, Syracuse, New York City and Yonkers during our 1st virtual awards ceremony in August. These young women have worked to overcome the challenges of poverty, peer pressure, racial discrimination, depression, familial dysfunction and just being a teenager in 21st Century America. 

They attend historically Black Colleges/Universities, Ivy-League Colleges/Universities and Community Colleges throughout the Eastern United States.  70% are from single parent households and 80% are the first college attendee in their family. We applaud their tenacity and celebrate their success. 

Program Guidelines & Priorities

  • Seeking Class of 2021 high school graduates with a record of volunteerism in their communities.
  • Applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA. A copy of the transcript or official letter required.
  • One recommendation from a teacher or professor required.
  • Must be a high school graduate who has accepted admission to a 2 or 4 year college or technical school.
  • Scholarships will be awarded in August 2021 (date TBA) via a virtual awards ceremony. 
  • Return your completed application by June 15th, via email or Google drive to: BLSEI2016@gmail.com. Subject line of the email: 2021 Scholarship Fund – (your first & last name)
                     2021 Application Deadline: June 15, 2021. 
                     Applications will be available May 1, 2021
                     To request an application: blsei2016@gmail.com

Contact Us

If you would like further information about The Beverly L. Smith Empowerment Initiative please use the form below.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Are there young people of color who need resources to help them pursue their education, career and life goals? Connect us!
Beverly L. Smith Empowerment Initiative
​P.O. Box 331
Auburn, NY 13021
800-726-3560
blsei2016@gmail.com