Each year, the Diversity and Inclusion Leaders Scholarship from Anderson University helps to fulfill dreams.
Razaria Copeland has a heart for hearing impaired individuals.
“I hope to become many things, but the first goal that comes to mind is to be theatre director for a deaf, hard-of-hearing and hearing school,” said Copeland, past recipient of the Diversity and Inclusion Leaders Scholarship from Anderson University. A student in the South Carolina School of the Arts majoring in acting and minoring in dance, Copeland is grateful.
“Receiving the scholarship from Diversity and Inclusion shaped my focus. Rather than focusing on my financial needs and stressing of the day-to-day necessities, the scholarship gave me the mental and emotional space to focus on my educational goals and bringing my dreams to reality.”
Trey Newton, a digital communication major, feels the Diversity and Inclusion Leaders Scholarship frees him to focus on a future in filmmaking.
Newton, a freshman from North Augusta, South Carolina, wants to someday have his own film production company. He says of the scholarship, “It’s one of the greatest blessings I’ve ever received. One of the things I’ve been passionate about ever since I was little is that I didn’t want my parents to pay for my college tuition. I knew if they had to, then they would, but I’ve always had that vision of receiving a full-ride scholarship. To see the Lord bless me with that, it’s very humbling but it’s very motivating at the same time.
Prospective students took part in Anderson University’s annual Diversity and Inclusion Leaders Scholarship Competition February 25 and 26 for a chance to realize their academic goals, like Copeland and Newton.
In its commitment to cultural diversity, Anderson University strives to be a reflection of the true diversity of God’s Kingdom as stated in Revelation 7:9. The Trojan family is a community that’s not only inclusive but embraces a diversity of people and cultures.
The scholarship competition was among many other events held in February to honor Black History Month.
Students and guests seeking scholarships participated in breakout sessions, which included interviews and a chance to get to know each other and the Trojan community through activities and lunch.
The event included the president’s lunch in the Student Center Banquet Hall, hosted by Dr. Evans Whitaker, president of Anderson University. Several members of the University’s senior leadership were on hand to answer questions about the Trojan family and the college search process. Additionally, prospective students took part in a student panel at the Student Center Theater to learn more from current students about student life, campus dining, Trojan family traditions and why they chose Anderson University.
Other highlights of the weekend included campus tours and helpful information on financial aid.
For details, contact the Anderson University Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Community by calling 864-231-2165 or email audiversity@andersonuniversity.edu.