TSU offers scholarship to Floyd’s daughter

Texas Southern University will honor the memory of George Floyd by offering his 6-year-old daughter Gianna a full scholarship to the university, according to a release.

The announcement came Tuesday — the day Floyd’s funeral was held at the Fountain of Praise Church in southwest Houston — from the board of regents and the TSU Foundation, an independent nonprofit that supports fundraising and development efforts.

Floyd, who grew up in the Third Ward and graduated from Jack Yates High School, died May 25 while in Minneapolis police custody.

The historically black college’s academic and executive staff will

ensure a spot for Gianna should she wish to attend TSU.

Albert H. Myres, chairman of the board, said in a written statement that Floyd’s legacy will only be strengthened by the offer of an educational pathway for his daughter.

“This board is committed to education and understands that a college degree is one of many powerful steps toward a productive and successful life,” Myres said. “We know that this gesture cannot take the place of her dad’s loving presence, but we hope that it will contribute to easing her journey through life.”

Gerald Smith, chairman of the TSU Foundation, agreed.

“We know the value of an education in the pursuit of solutions and generational progress,” Smith said in a written statement. “We look forward to embracing her into the TSU family.”

In addition to the TSU scholarship, Gianna Floyd has also had a 529 college savings plan account created for her by musician Kanye West, according to reports from CNN and People.