NMHU Foundation establishes George Floyd Memorial Scholarship
First awards likely to be distributed in spring
LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO — Thanks to a generous donor, the New Mexico Highlands University Foundation announced that it will establish a George Floyd Memorial Scholarship, named for the Black man killed by Minneapolis police in May that sparked protests around the country.
Theresa Law, vice president of student and donor engagement at the university, said the scholarship is an opportunity for Highlands to support African American students who are not only interested in pursuing advanced education, but also opportunities to change their communities for the better.
“This new scholarship will benefit African American Highlands University students who are leaders on campus or in their communities, or who are working on issues of diversity, equality and injustice,” she said in a news release. “The scholarship is open to both undergraduate and graduate students.”
Law said the Highlands Foundation has formed a committee to review applicants and will begin meeting this fall. The first scholarships are expected to be awarded in the spring semester of 2021.
“The George Floyd Memorial Scholarship committee has representation from Highlands faculty, staff and administration, donors to the fund and Highlands alumni. This committee will recommend deserving applicants for the scholarship award based on a personal essay by the applicant,” Law said.
Anyone interested in contributing to the scholarship fund can write a check to NMHU Foundation, George Floyd Memorial Scholarship, Box 9000, Las Vegas, NM, 87701. Or they can donate online by visiting nmhufoundation.org/george-floydscholarship-donations.
Donations may be tax deductible.