Kingston, Jamaica – On Saturday, July 9th 2016 The Grace Scholarship Fund held their 3rd annual Scholarship Reception Ceremony at the Spanish Court Hotel in Kingston, Jamaica.
The Fund was started three years ago by Executive Director and Jamaican-American Charissa Lawrence as a means to help support the financial needs of Jamaican students attending colleges, universities and trade programs.
Ms. Lawrence was born in New York City to Jamaican parents but always kept a close connection with the island as she has been to Jamaica numerous times each year since birth.
“I’ve worked as an investment banker on Wall Street. I’ve led business units at Fortune 500 Companies in Europe and the Americas. I’ve designed and deployed strategies for start up technologies. It’s all been an amazing experience that I couldn’t have done without the foundation of a good education. I want others to have the same opportunity – this is my way of doing that.”, Ms. Lawrence stated when asked about what compelled her to start the Fund.
A Harvard University graduate herself, Ms. Lawrence’s efforts have proven to be successful as evidenced by the fact that 17 deserving students have received scholarships from The Grace Scholarship Fund over the years.
On July 7 students from across the island received financial gifts ranging from $500 – $1,500 USD each. The students represented several parishes – St. Andrew, Portland, Westmoreland and others.
This year’s 7 Scholarship winners were: Densil Irving (Mannings, Bethlehem Moravian College), Jacqueline James (Paul Bogle, UTech), Andene Bailey (Immaculate, UWI), Janay Duncan (Immaculate / UWI), Roxroy Roach (Mannings, Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College), Damani Campbell (St. Elizabeth Technical, Bethlehem Moravian College), Shackela Harris (Titchfield, UWI).
“It was such a delight to witness the deserving young people receive these financial gifts. They are studying to become future doctors, public servants, dentists and business leaders. I’m just so happy to have been a part of their special day” said Mrs. Grace Lawrence, for whom the fund is named after.
To make the day even more special, the occasion featured guest speakers Dr. Mark Nicely (Secretary General, Jamaica Teachers’ Association) and Dr. Michelle Charles (Dental Surgeon, Business Owner). They both made passionate addresses on the importance of planning for success and keeping God at the center of all endeavors.
Both guest speakers offered to remain in touch and provide mentoring for the students.
“I’m already looking forward to next year’s scholarship ceremony. This is absolutely a community effort so right now I’m focused on fundraising both in Jamaica and abroad so that we can offer additional scholarships next year. You don’t need to make a large donation. Small donations are pooled together to form scholarships so every single dollar donated is effective.” said Ms. Lawrence.
When asked what she would change about the fund or her efforts, Ms. Lawrence replied, “Well…everyone always thinks the fund is affiliated with Grace Kennedy. The name was actually chosen in honor of my Grand Aunt, Grace Lawrence. She is the quintessential icon of what it means to be a public servant and promoter of education. She taught at Immaculate Conception High for over 35 years and still teaches from her veranda at the age of 91.
While many have suggested that I change the name to avoid confusion with Grace Kennedy, that likely won’t happen for sentimental reasons. But maybe it’s something I should consider…”.
The Fund graciously accepts all donations. Many of the scholarships could not have been made without the pledges of under $500USD. Donors who exceed that amount are named ‘Gold Donors’. This year’s Gold Donors included: Dr. Keith Williams (Florida), Andy & Coleen Rowe (New York), Dr. Brian Hamilton (Florida), Sydonie Neysmith (Florida), Dr. Peter Charles (Jamaica) , Bernard Lawrence (Jamaica), Joanne Michaels (Florida) and Charissa Lawrence.
Ms. Lawrence covers all the operational costs associated with the fund so 100% of donations made go directly to future scholarship recipients.
The next annual scholarship reception ceremony is scheduled for the fall of 2017.
To learn more about the fund or make a welcomed donation for the students of Jamaica visit www.gracefund.org
Submitted by: www.writethiswritethat.com
