Help send DeShawn Adams to graduate school

My name is Janet Joseph and I have had the privilege of knowing DeShawn for nine years serving as one of his mentors. We met his sophomore year in high school on the West side of Chicago via the After School Matters program. He had a sparkle in his eye, street and book smarts, and determination. He knew that his way out was through achieving a higher education. Per DeShawn, facing disadvantages early in life was a blessing because it forced him to learn to succeed in many different environments.

 

DeShawn has earned many accolades:

 

Salutatorian of his high school graduating class.

Posse Scholarship Applied to his undergraduate degree in Engineering at Trinity College in Hartford CT.

Gates Scholarship Yes, that Gates. Awarded to 300 students nationally each year. This scholarship will fund a large portion of his graduate school education.

 

DeShawn will be attending Brown University’s School of Engineering graduate program this Fall. He fell in love with Brown University and the engineering program when they hosted him in April. The Gates Scholarship will pay for 63% of the two-year program and Brown University will cover an additional 11%.  What remains is $ 42,000 for tuition and room and board.  DeShawn has money saved for books, flights to and from school, and spending money.

This is where we need your help. We ask that you invest in DeShawn’s education and his future.

 

DeShawn asked me recently why I chose to work with him so many years ago. I saw his potential and determination and knew that he would serve as an incredible mentor and role model. Against strong odds, he was able to earn a top-notch education and will be attending an Ivy League school this fall. It’s mind-blowing how far he has come. He put in the hard work that was needed to get him where he is today and will continue to do so. I promise you that an investment in DeShawn is a solid bet. Thank you for your support and for believing in him.