PVAMU seniors honored as White House HBCU Scholars

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (Aug. 15, 2024) - In a landmark achievement, two of Prairie View A&M University's outstanding students have been named 2024 White House HBCU Scholars. They join a distinguished cohort of the brightest minds selected from 77 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the nation. This prestigious recognition, now in its 10^th year, celebrates their exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential, and unwavering commitment to their communities.

The White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through HBCUs announced this year's scholars. U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona praised the scholars, stating, "This year's 110 outstanding students exemplify Black excellence and fill us with hope for the promise of tomorrow. We couldn't be prouder to support them on their journey."

PVAMU senior mechanical engineering major Nadia Higgins expressed her gratitude, saying, "I am deeply honored and grateful to all of the students, professors, and faculty at Prairie View A&M University for the unwavering support and opportunities that have shaped my academic and leadership journey. Being selected as an HBCU White House Scholar is a tremendous privilege, and I owe much of this achievement to the guidance and encouragement from my parents, family, friends, and the University."

Higgins emphasized her commitment to using this platform to advocate for educational equity and excellence. "As an HBCU White House Scholar, I plan to leverage this opportunity to foster connections between students and industry leaders, bringing valuable resources and knowledge back to our campus. My goal is to inspire my peers to reach their full potential and to work collaboratively on initiatives that advance our collective success."

Senior biology major Haile Allen echoed similar sentiments, stating, "I am profoundly humbled and privileged to have been selected as a White House HBCU Scholar, representing Prairie View A&M University on this esteemed national platform. This recognition is undoubtedly attributed to the continued reinforcement I have received from many staunch supporters who I have been blessed to have in my corner throughout my academic and life's journey."

Allen's passion for creating positive change and amplifying the voices of HBCUs nationwide is evident. "This opportunity aligns with my passion for giving back to my community and maximizing the potential of this platform. I am ready to contribute to the legacy of excellence that HBCUs represent," she said. "I am dedicated to maximizing this platform, building connections with other leaders, and bringing valuable resources and opportunities back to PVAMU. Furthermore, I embrace the responsibility of being a role model for my little brother and others who see me as a source of inspiration. I aspire to inspire them to pursue their dreams with confidence and know that their potential knows no limits."

The 2024 HBCU Scholars will engage in a series of workshops, leadership development programs, and networking events throughout the year, designed to enhance their skills and expand their horizons. They will also have the opportunity to participate in the 2024 HBCU Week National Annual Conference in Philadelphia, PA, where they will engage with industry leaders, policymakers, and program alumni, further enriching their educational experience.

"The selection of Nadia and Haile as White House HBCU scholars recognizes the brilliance that is cultivated at PVAMU," said Dr. Quincy C. Moore III, director of PVAMU's Honors Program, of which Higgins and Allen are a part. This recognition further demonstrates that excellence truly lives here. This achievement is evidence of the first-class education and training received at our University."

Since its inception in 2014, the HBCU Scholars program has empowered over 500 students, providing them with invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth.

As these PVAMU students embark on this new chapter, they are ready to represent the University with pride and continue to make meaningful contributions that uplift the HBCU community nationwide.

Click here to read the full press release by the U.S. Department of Education.

-PVAMU-

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