Florida Group Raises $100K for Student Scholarships

The Manasota Branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History raised $100,000 during their first-ever Black History Month Scholarship Luncheon in February. Every dollar will go directly to students in Sarasota and Manatee counties pursuing higher education.

The celebration at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens brought together scholars, community leaders, and supporters who believe in the power of education. Dr. Maurice Hobson from Georgia State University praised the organization's strength and commitment to preserving Black history while building futures.

What makes this event even more special is seeing the circle complete itself. Simone Fletcher, a past scholarship recipient, emceed the luncheon, while Tiona Sellers spoke about how her ASALH scholarship changed her life and launched her career at Gulf Coast Community Foundation.

Since launching in 2000, Manasota ASALH has invested more than $700,000 in 333 local students. That's 333 young people who got the chance to pursue their dreams because their community showed up for them.

The Ripple Effect

The impact of these scholarships extends far beyond tuition payments. When students like Tiona and Simone receive support, they return to strengthen their communities, creating a cycle of opportunity that touches generations.

Executive Director Jada Wright-Greene captured the spirit perfectly: investing in education is investing in the future. The generosity shown at this luncheon proves that when communities come together around shared values, incredible things happen.

The 2026 scholarship recipients will be announced in May at the organization's annual awards ceremony. For students waiting to hear their names called, that announcement could change everything.