As the cost of tuition continues to rise, students are trying to find funds to help suppress the cost. Fortunately, for female students of Haitian descent, Cassandra Theramene has created a scholarship to do just that.
Theramene, a spring 2004 SBI graduate, is going deep in her own pockets to help women of Haitian decent who are interested or majoring in business decrease the financial burden of tuition.
“This scholarship is committed toward increasing the number of young Haitian ladies in pursuing an undergraduate/graduate degree in the area of business administration, accounting, marketing, finance and business management,” Thermane said.
The title of this unique scholarship is “The Essence of a Haitian Women.” Theramene said she chose this title because she wants the recipient to be one that is filled pride and aware of Haiti’s rich history.
This is the first year the scholarship will be offered, but Theramene said she hopes it is the first of many.
“Through my many business connections I hope to increase the funding in the coming years.”
The plans are to give two $500 scholarships on a yearly basis. The potential recipients must be either a Miami Central High School senior female student who plans on continuing a college degree at FAMU, or a woman who is currently enrolled at FAMU as a sophomore, junior or senior for the following school year.
Each woman must have an overall grade point average of 3.3 or above and be able to prove her nationality by providing a copy of her birth certificate. An essay is also required to receive the scholarship.
Theramene said she is not a stranger to the act of giving. During her matriculation at FAMU, she founded a mentoring program called Helping Hands, served the student body as Secretary of State in the Student Government Association and a very active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.
Theramene said that the inspiration for the scholarship came from her mother and cousin. She said her cousin came to the United States from Haiti at 15 and has found it very difficult to attend and fund college not being a U.S. citizen.
“This is my opportunity to bless others in the process of my blessing” she said.
Roshell Rosemond, a graduating five-year SBI student, also of Haitian decent, found great excitement in the new scholarship.
“I think the scholarship is a great step in a positive direction for the school and students. This proves that you are never too young to give back,” she said.
Rosemond, who has also created a scholarship, said that every little bit helps when trying to complete a post-secondary education.
“This is an opportunity to help not just the Haitian community but the black community in a whole.”
Both Theramene and Rosemond said they feel that this is a chance to leave a small legacy on campus and to ensure the success for blacks in the business world.
For more information for student at Miami Central High school please contact Stephanie Pitts and students currently enrolled in The of Business and Industry contact Leuita Booth.
Contact Arnika Frazier at arnikafrazier@yahoo.com.