By Shawn Nowlin
To state the obvious, college can be very expensive. According to research gathered from the Education Data Initiative, it is not uncommon for a four-year degree to exceed $150,000 in total costs.
Sixteen years ago, after losing their son, Marvin and Lorena Wilson created a scholarship fund in honor of the promising young man who had a bright future.“Our mission is to empower graduating seniors from Roanoke City Public Schools by removing financial barriers to higher education,” Lorena said.
Applications for the Marcus M. Wilson Annual Scholarship Fund (MMWSF) are considered based on academic performance, financial need, community service hours and other circumstances. Funds come from a combination of donations and fundraisers.
On April 25, MMWSF held its annual luncheon at the L.H. Hamlar Event Center. The jam-packed event included dance performances, moving speeches, heartfelt stories and more.
Blake Barnes, a 2015 MMWSF scholarship recipient and Old Dominion University graduate with degrees in sociology and African American Studies, served as Master of Ceremony.
Masoka Kashindi and Blise Tuyizere, juniors and seniors at William Fleming High, respectively, used their talents to express themselves.
Dancers Kennedy Helm and Milana Correa-Jackson, products of Youth Unifying & Narrating God’s Encouragement, Name & Salvation (Y.U.N.G.E.N.S), encouraged all in attendance to continue building community.
Miles Wilson, a third-year mechanical engineering student at the University of Virginia, was the guest speaker. The 2023 scholarship recipient is the founder of Game Time Clothing, a lifestyle brand rooted in self-discipline and culture.
Since its inception, more than 50 teens have benefitted from the scholarship fund.
Knowing that her son is watching over her daily fuels Lorena’s desire to help as many young people as possible reach their dreams.
“Marcus was on his way to being a successful young man, He wanted to study Criminal Justice, but his dream was cut short due to his untimely death,” she said. “He loved life and had a desire to help others, making this the best way to memorialize his love for life, people, family and education.”
Added Marvin, “We extend our deepest appreciation to everyone who attended and supported our annual scholarship luncheon. Your presence, generosity and encouragement continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of so many. Thank you for believing in our mission and helping us empower the next generation. Together, we are building brighter futures.”
Some of the colleges that MMWSF recipients have gone on to graduate from include Ferrum College, George Mason University, Howard University, James Madison University, North Carolina A&T University, University of Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University and Virginia Tech.
To keep up with the scholarship fund, visit www.mmwsf10.org.
