FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 29, 2025
Contact: Jada Wright-Greene, Executive Director, Manasota ASALH
(941) 400-8454
Manasota ASALH Awards $45,000 in Scholarships to 17 Local Students
SARASOTA, FL – The Manasota Branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) proudly awarded $45,000 in scholarships to 17 outstanding students from Manatee and Sarasota counties during its annual scholarship awards ceremony, held on May 24, 2025. This effort is part of the organization’s ongoing commitment to supporting the educational success of students in the region.
Now in its latest cycle, the Manasota ASALH Scholarship Program supports high school seniors and college students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, community involvement, and a dedication to pursuing higher education. In addition to these new awards, Manasota ASALH continues its support of recurring scholars, allocating an additional $10,000 to students currently enrolled in higher education institutions. This sustained support helps ensure long-term academic success and degree completion for returning students.
To date, Manasota ASALH has awarded more than $701,000 in scholarships to 333 students in the Sarasota and Manatee region—a powerful testament to the organization’s mission to advance educational equity and opportunity.
Jada Wright-Greene, Executive Director of Manasota ASALH, emphasized the importance of this initiative for the community’s future. “This scholarship program is a direct investment in our youth,” said Wright-Greene. “By supporting their educational paths, we are helping to build a stronger, more equitable community. These students represent hope, progress, and the enduring legacy of excellence.”
The scholarship program is led by Harriet Cowan, Scholarship Committee Chairman, whose leadership and dedication have been instrumental in guiding and mentoring students throughout their academic journeys. “We are not only awarding scholarships—we are investing in futures,” said Harriet Cowan. “Our goal is to walk alongside these students as they navigate college and career, offering encouragement, resources, and a strong support network.”
The 17 new recipients received individual awards to support their studies at accredited colleges, universities, and vocational institutions. Many are pursuing fields such as education, engineering, medicine, and science. This impactful program is made possible through the generous support of local donors, sponsors, and community members who believe in the power of education to transform lives.
For more information about the Manasota ASALH Scholarship Program or to learn how to support future scholarship efforts, please visit www.asalh-manasotafl.org
About Manasota ASALH: Manasota ASALH is a local branch of the National Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH)—the organization founded in 1915 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, who is credited with establishing Black History Month. Since its founding in 1995, the Manasota Branch has remained committed to promoting, researching, preserving, interpreting, and sharing the rich history and culture of people of African descent with both local and global communities. Manasota ASALH fulfills its mission through impactful programs such as the Manasota ASALH Freedom School—a community-based initiative that provides K–12 students with an honest and empowering education about the history and contributions of African and African American people. To date, more than 100 students have completed the program, which is led by certified teachers. The branch also supports academic advancement through its robust scholarship program, which awards scholarships to Sarasota and Manatee high school students accepted to colleges or universities. Over the past 23 years, Manasota ASALH has awarded more than $701,000 in scholarships to 333 scholars in Manatee and Sarasota counties. For more information about Manasota ASALH, visit www.asalh-manasotafl.org
Photo: 2025 Manasota ASALH Scholarship Recipients
First Row (l-r) Savannah Ivery, Marley Hall, Jolissa Allen, Zorianna Torres, Brianna Lynch, Markell Porter, Ava Leblanc Bessette
Second Row (l-r) Shandrea Williams, Kadren Henry, Jade Peters, William Grant, Usman Phillips, Arie Williams, Cayden Arlotta, Javari Mitchell, Amari Lopez (not pictured Jason Anderson)
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