Bessie Morris Foundation, a local non-profit organization, announced the ten 2023 recipients of their academic scholarship program. Awardees are selected based on their scholastic achievement, community contribution, aspirations, as well as financial need.
Jazmin Simmons, a sophomore at Grand Canyon University; Chantel Palmer, a sophomore at California State University Dominguez Hills; and Takara Ramos, a graduate of Washington Preparatory High School, are this year’s recipients of the NOBLE Reddick Scholarship.
Brison Toussaint, graduate of University High School Charter; Ashley Neponuceno and Cynthia Delatorre, graduates of Washington Preparatory High School; Nora Rodriguez, Dionne Canonizado, and Dorshona Money, undergraduates at California State University – Dominguez Hills; and Delaney Mobely, a graduate of Narbonne High School, are the other seven scholarship recipients.
Applicants completed the application, provided transcripts and proof of college acceptance, and wrote an essay about their personal circumstances.
Founded in 2005 by Ivory Freeman, Bessie Morris Foundation runs several programs that provide underserved Los Angeles girls and young women with tools to help them aspire for and reach their dreams.
The Academic Scholarship program was launched last year through the generous grant from the Southern California Chapter of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE). Four inaugural scholars were awarded the Mom and Pop Reddick Scholarship.
The Foundation’s scholarship program was expanded in 2023 with ten scholars receiving $500 each towards their higher education pursuits. AFSCME Local 685 was one of the sponsors.
“Even those who have been awarded financial aid may have difficulties purchasing school supplies and dorm furnishings, as funds are often not distributed until after the school session has begun. We want to help those of low-income to have the opportunity to better themselves,” said Freeman.
Bessie Morris Foundation is a Los Angeles County-based 501 (C) (3) organization founded in 2005 by Ivory Freeman in honor of her grandmother, Bessie Bernice Morris. The organization is dedicated to inspiring young women to realize their dreams by emphasizing the importance of academic performance, self-esteem, self-confidence, and self-sufficiency.
The foundation offers leadership development training, health education, mentorship, personal development, and character-building programs to at-risk, underprivileged girls. The organization is supported through grants and individual donations. Learn more about the organization and its programs at https://bessiemorris.org.
