King Street Center is distributing a total of $11,000 to 7 scholarship winners as they begin their academic year in college. The Roxane Leopold Scholarship was established upon the retirement – and in recognition – of long-time King Street Center Executive Director, Roxane Leopold. She served in this leadership role from 1985 to 2007 and was dedicated to improving the lives of King Street Center youth through education and training.
Applicants provide a review committed with transcript, essay, and letter of recommendation. Most importantly, they must be a current or former participant of one of King Street Center programs. Vicky Smith, Executive Director, shares, “I am really fortunate to know these young people since early childhood and watch them grow into our future leaders.
I think what strikes me is that these kids really illustrate the crucial life skills that so many brilliant researchers speak about – such as the ability to be creative, collaborative, and confident critical thinkers. And, let’s not forget their absolute determination to move ahead, all the while still maintaining a strong sense of and commitment to their family and community. I have every confidence they will more than thrive and succeed in letting their voices be heard as they determine their next course of action- not just for themselves, but keeping in mind how it may impact others. These kids have a wide lens toward the greater good which gives me so much hope!”
One scholarship recipient writes, “I was able to become academically successful because of King Street due to their firm belief in strengthening life skills such as reading, writing, and more. I was also able to grow into my individual identity and discover my likes and dislikes, my strengths and weaknesses, and much more. The staff there became my family.”
A Champlain College staff member writes of one recipient, “It is truly rare to find such a consummate student who excels in every area of their collegiate experience and I can’t think of a more qualified recipient of funding to create access to experiences like these. As a student affairs professional, it is an honor and joy to know [this student] and learn alongside her…”
This year we celebrate the academic achievements of Hawa Adan (Champlain College), Halima Said (Champlain College), Hamdi Jafar (Champlain College), Misky Noor (UVM), Ahmed Adan (Champlain College), Ali Hussein (UVM), and Deborah Mmunga (Johnson State).
