We believe that your journey of triumphing over adversity deserves recognition, and we are committed to supporting you in your pursuit of higher education. The Samaad Z Frazier Scholarship Award represents our admiration for your achievements both on and off the field or court. This scholarship aims to recognize the strength, resilience, and determination of individuals who have faced mental health challenges while actively participating in basketball. Below are the criteria for eligibility:
- Sports Involvement:
- Applicants must have actively participated in any sport, either at the high school level or in organized leagues.
- Verification of basketball involvement, such as a coach’s recommendation or team membership proof, should be submitted.
- Personal Experience with Depression:
- Applicants must demonstrate that they have battled depression or other mental health challenges during their high school years.
- Applicants may provide a personal statement discussing their experience with depression, including how it has impacted their life, their sports journey, and their mental health journey.
- Leadership and Resilience:
- Applicants should exhibit exceptional leadership qualities, resilience, and determination in overcoming their mental health challenges.
- Letters of recommendation from coaches, teachers, or mental health professionals should highlight the applicant’s leadership, resilience, and personal growth.
- Community Involvement:
- Applicants should have a track record of involvement in community service or volunteer activities.
- Documentation or letters of verification that showcase the applicant’s commitment to community engagement should be submitted.
- Essay:
- Applicants must submit a well-written essay of 350 words that describes their personal journey of battling depression while participating in sports. The essay should highlight the challenges faced, the strategies used to cope, and the impact of basketball on their mental health recovery.
- Financial Need:
- While not a primary criterion, financial need may be considered when selecting scholarship recipients. Applicants may be required to provide information regarding their financial circumstances.
The scholarship selection committee will evaluate all applications based on the aforementioned criteria. The decision will be made impartially and with great consideration for each applicant’s achievements, resilience, and personal growth. The number of scholarships awarded and the scholarship amount will be determined by the available funds and the quality of the applications received.
