Measuring Our Impact:
Changing Lives Through Education
At the Debra S. Jackson New Horizons Scholarship Fund, we believe in the power of education to transform not just individual lives, but entire communities. Here's how your support is making a difference.
Empower a Brighter Future
The Debra S. Jackson New Horizons Scholarship aims to significantly reduce the financial barriers that many adult learners face when returning to education. With only 17% of adults aged 40 and above returning to college, our scholarships address a critical gap, enabling recipients to focus on their academic and personal development without financial stress. Adults returning to education see an average income increase of 20% post-graduation, highlighting the economic uplift associated with higher education.
By alleviating these barriers, the scholarship not only aids recipients in completing their education but also transforms their lives by increasing their career opportunities and potential for future success. Approximately 65% of returning adults report enhanced career prospects, thereby improving their economic stability and contributing positively to society.
Success Stories
While we eagerly await our first cohort of scholars, the stories of our applicants already showcase the potential impact of this fund.
Amanda
Going to college after many years in the workforce was not an easy decision to make. What held me back was the fear that I would fail- not be good enough, or motivated enough, or feel awkward starting college at my age. Being an adult, non-traditional student meant having no financial help from my family, not having peers in my age group, and having to be utterly self-motivated and self-sufficient. And I love it. Helping and uplifting other people is what I live and breathe for. Having recently been accepted into the McNair Scholar's Program, my ultimate goal is to help communities on a large scale by addressing the root cause of societal problems.
Wesley
I have dreamed of becoming a pilot and joined the Navy to fly. Though unable to become a naval pilot, I served as an aircrew member. After a naval career supporting aviation, I retired and began civilian flight training to finally pursue my dream. Now in my 50s, I want to prove to myself and my family that it's never too late to achieve that dream of becoming a commercial airline pilot. In order to meet the airline's requirements for training as well as their preference for a college degree, I am enrolled in a Bachelor's program at Liberty University. Winning this scholarship would provide vital funding for my instrument rating certification without diverting my funds reserved for my daughter’s future education. It would enable me to actively advance my lifelong aviation goal of becoming a commercial pilot while still supporting my family’s needs.
Latriece
After 20 years of doubting myself, and feeling, as if I would not be able to endure, I made a decision to pursue my lifelong dream of becoming a clinical psychologist. I will be the first in my family to not only obtain a college degree, but a Master’s degree as well. Growing up as a child, my father was terribly addicted to drugs and alcohol. Presently, I work as a foster care/social work supervisor. I am a mother of five and I have two beautiful grandchildren. I met my husband at age 20. We were married, after dating less than a year, and I gave birth to three beautiful children. After being married for two years, that's when the abuse started. It started with the verbal abuse and gradually expanded to physical abuse. Today, I am an advocate for women who continue to suffer in silence. I am an advocate for children, who are neglected or abused as I was. Today, I am strong, I am confident and I am healed.
Educational Attainment and Community Impact
Higher educational attainment plays a crucial role not only in individual success but also in fostering healthier, more engaged communities. Numerous studies have demonstrated that increased education levels are strongly correlated with a range of positive societal outcomes. For instance, communities with higher rates of educational attainment report lower unemployment and poverty levels, underscoring the economic stability that education can provide. Plus, individuals with higher education are more likely to participate in civic activities such as volunteering and voting.
This heightened civic participation enhances community decision-making processes and leads to more inclusive, responsive governance. By investing in adult education, the Debra S. Jackson New Horizons Scholarship Fund contributes to these broader community benefits, supporting a more educated populace that is capable of driving positive change and fostering societal progress.
When adults return to school and achieve higher education, they not only set a powerful example for their children but also create a ripple effect that promotes educational aspirations within their families. Research has shown that parents who pursue higher education are significantly more likely to have children who also attend college. This cycle of educational attainment leads to socioeconomic improvement across generations, as higher education is associated with better career opportunities, higher earnings, and improved quality of life.
Impact on Families
The Debra S. Jackson New Horizons Scholarship Fund recognizes and supports this intergenerational impact, providing scholarships that help adult learners transform not only their own lives but also the futures of their families. By breaking barriers to education for adults, the fund plays a crucial role in initiating a cycle of success that can lead to lasting socioeconomic benefits for entire communities.
Plans for Growth
Our vision for the future is ambitious yet attainable. We plan to increase the number of scholarships awarded each year and raise the amount of each scholarship to $5,000. This expansion will allow us to support a larger group of deserving individuals, amplifying the impact of the fund significantly. By growing our financial base through continued and new donations, we can reach more adult learners who are at pivotal points in their lives, ready to seize the opportunity for a brighter future through education.
Your Role in Our Growth
As we work towards our goal of offering four $5,000 scholarships annually, your support is crucial. Here's how your donation can make a difference:
$100 can provide textbooks for a semester
$500 can cover technology fees for a year
$2,500 can fund a full scholarship
Every contribution brings us closer to empowering more adult learners.
Help us Light the Path to Education for More Adults
Your support is crucial in turning these plans into reality. Each donation brings us closer to expanding our scholarship offerings and, consequently, our impact. We invite you to join us in this transformative mission.
Remember, your contributions are tax-deductible, and every dollar you give goes directly towards empowering adult learners to achieve their dreams and enhance their lives.
Together, we can build a legacy of learning and opportunity that ripples throughout generations.
Be a Catalyst for Change
Your support can light the path to education for deserving adult learners. Join us in honoring Debra S. Jackson's legacy and empowering the next generation of lifelong learners.
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