(BPRW) National Urban League Awards First-Ever Project Ready Scholarship

(Black PR Wire) CLEVELAND, OHIO — The National Urban League took a major step forward today in supporting youth through its Project Ready Scholarship, not just preparing students for college and careers, but now directly investing in their futures.

At an event in Cleveland, the League announced the launch of its first-ever Project Ready Scholarship, marking what it hopes will become an annual tradition of empowering young leaders nationwide.

In partnership with FedEx, the founding sponsor of this initiative, five high school seniors have each been awarded $6,600 to help kickstart their next chapter. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to expanding access, opportunity, and equity in education for young people of color.

“FedEx has been an incredible partner in making this possible,” said Marc H. Morial, President and CEO of the National Urban League. “Their support shows what can happen when we come together around the belief that every student deserves a fair shot at success.”

This year’s scholarship drew nearly 30 applicants, a strong response for the inaugural round. The award is designed to be more than just a financial boost; it’s part of the League’s mission to support the whole student through academic readiness, leadership development, and now, targeted financial resources.

2025 Project Ready Scholarship Recipients:

●      Jocelyn Eldemire, Lorain County Urban League – attending The University of Akron

●      MacKenzie Glover, Columbia Urban League – attending North Carolina State University

●      Warren Scott, Urban League of Greater Chattanooga – attending Tennessee Technical University

●      Payge Turner, Chicago Urban League – attending Florida A&M University (FAMU)

●      Timothy Rice III, Urban League of Greater Chattanooga – attending Middle Tennessee State University

“These young people represent the future,” said Morial. “We’re not just awarding scholarships; we’re cultivating leaders who will drive change in their communities and beyond.”

The National Urban League plans to grow the Project Ready Scholarship each year, with more partners, more students, and even greater impact.