July 8, 2020
Theresa Law
Las Vegas, N.M. – The New Mexico Highlands University Foundation established the George Floyd Memorial Scholarship in June to benefit African American students, thanks to a generous donor.
“This new scholarship will benefit African American Highlands University students who are leaders on campus or in their communities, or who are working on issues of diversity, equality and injustice,” said Theresa Law, Highlands vice president of student and donor engagement. “The scholarship is open to both undergraduate and graduate students.”
The Highlands Foundation is seeking more donors to build the scholarship fund. To contribute, go online to https://nmhufoundation.org/george-floyd-scholarship-donations Those who wish to contribute by check may mail their donation to the NMHU Foundation, George Floyd Memorial Scholarship, Box 9000, Las Vegas, NM, 87701. Donations may be tax deductible.
George Floyd, an African American, was killed May 25, 2020, by a Minnesota police officer, touching off nationwide protests.
Law said the new scholarship is a tangible opportunity for Highlands to support African American students who are pursuing not only their own education, but also opportunities to change their communities for the better.
Law said the Highlands Foundation has formed a committee to review the George Floyd scholarship applications that will begin meeting in fall 2020. The first scholarships are expected to be awarded spring semester 2021, with the amount of the awards dependent on donations to the fund.
“The George Floyd Memorial Scholarship committee has representation from Highlands faculty, staff and administration, donors to the fund and Highlands alumni. This committee will recommend deserving applicants for the scholarship award based on a personal essay from the applicant,” Law said.