Recipients

2025 Be a Rising Bud Scholarship presented by Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF) –Congratulations to Jovana Hawkins, who was selected to receive the 2025 Be A Rising Bud Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to high school seniors and/or college freshmen in pursuit of an undergraduate degree with a concentration in the Arts. Jovana Hawkins found her artistic voice through the lens of sports media. What began as routine Sundays filled with football games and family debates turned into a meaningful exploration of storytelling, nuance, and culture. A simple question to her father, “What’s so special about football?”, sparked a passion that would ultimately shape her career path. From attending her first NFL [Ravens] game to visiting the behind-the-scenes of the Army-Navy game, Jovana began to see the powerful intersection of media, gender representation, and sports. Inspired by the lack of women visibility behind the cameras and in the commentary booths, she envisioned a future where she could make her mark in sports and entertainment. Jovana is excited to dive into programs in Sports Media and Journalism, where she plans to develop her craft and amplify the stories that shape sports culture. Congratulations, Jovana! We celebrate your vision and determination to challenge norms and break into the world of sports media. We are confident you will bring passion and purpose to your journey, and we can’t wait to watch your story unfold.

2025 STEM to Flowers Scholarship presented by Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF) – Congratulations to Brooklyn Winslow LeVoir, who was selected to receive the 2025 STEM to Flowers Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to a high school senior and/or college freshman in pursuit of an undergraduate degree with a concentration in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math). For Brooklyn, a career in forensics is about more than science, it’s about truth, justice, and humanity. What began as a curiosity sparked by unsolved cases like JonBenét Ramsey and the Sodder children has become a lifelong mission to bring integrity to the justice system and dignity to victims whose names have been forgotten. She believes in the power of DNA technology not just to solve crimes, but to correct injustices, both past and present. Her passion lies in giving voice to the voiceless, advocating for equity in investigative resources, and ensuring that no child is forgotten simply because of race, gender, or socioeconomic status. By studying biochemistry, forensic science, and criminology, Brooklyn plans to lead with empathy, precision, and purpose. She’s determined to honor victims not by how they died, but by how they lived, and to build a future where every case matters equally. Congratulations, Brooklyn! Your compassion and drive to improve the justice system inspire us. We are honored to support you on your journey, and we are confident you will leave a lasting impact on the world of forensic science and beyond.

2025 Fully Bloomed Scholarship presented by Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF) – Congratulations to Rachel M. Copeland-Nunn, who was selected to receive the 2025 Fully Bloomed Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to mothers who pursue any form of post-secondary education, which may include, but is not limited to, college degrees, certifications, licenses, trainings, and workshops. Rachel is currently pursuing an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Computer Programming. Her passion for web development and coding opened the door to a new future, one filled with opportunity, creativity, and the flexibility to balance motherhood and career. “Coding is like solving a puzzle,” Rachel shares. “Each piece fits together to create something new.” As a single mother of three, Rachel has faced some challenges but through it all, she remains determined to create a better life for herself and for her family. Her ultimate goal is to work remotely as a web developer or software engineer, allowing her to support and be present for her children, homeschool her youngest son, and empower other women, especially single mothers and survivors of domestic violence, to enter the tech industry. Congratulations Rachel! We are inspired by your perseverance, purpose, and dedication to both your family and your future. We wish you much success as you continue to thrive in your studies and carve out a powerful path in tech. You are already creating change and we’re cheering you on every step of the way.

 
2024 Be a Rising Bud Scholarship presented by Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF) – Congratulations to Lavender Minseo An, who was selected to receive the 2024 Be a Rising Bud Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to high school seniors and/or college freshmen in pursuit of an undergraduate degree with a concentration in the Arts. Lavender is passionate about Fine Arts. To her, Fine Arts was also a means of communication and self-discovery. “Art provided [Lavender] with a voice when words failed her and a sanctuary where she could be unapologetically herself.” She found her purpose in painting, sculpting, and sketching. Lavender positively impacted her community by contributing her talent to art exhibitions such as the Asian Student Alliance Youth Art Month Student Art Show. Through these exhibitions, Lavender “wanted to provide a platform for Asian American youth to showcase their talents while promoting inclusivity and cultural exchange among attendees of all backgrounds.” Congratulations Lavender! We wish you much success as you pursue your Fine Arts degree. We hope you continue to thrive in telling your story through the arts. We hope you will succeed in all of your goals and passions. We are excited to witness your creative impact in our world. 
 
2024 STEM to Flowers Scholarship presented by Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF) – Congratulations to Zaria Monaye Clemons, who was selected to receive the 2024 STEM to Flowers Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to a high school senior and/or college freshman in pursuit of an undergraduate degree with a concentration in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math). Watching true crime documentaries fueled Zaria Monaye Clemons’s passion for the field of Forensics. She admires “scientists’ ability to take small pieces of evidence like a hair follicle to solve an entire case.” Zaria wants to help bring justice to communities worldwide while continuing to volunteer as a leader in our communities. Zaria currently volunteers with the Tre’quan Smith Foundation, helping develop youth football players. She is also the Charity Chair for the Black Student Union at Suncoast Community High School. This position inspires her to help her community more. Zaria visited her childhood hospital, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, where she received 30+ surgeries. She was born with Hemangioma, a vascular birthmark made from extra blood cells in the skin. Doctors believed she wouldn’t be able to live past three, talk, or function as a “normal” child. Zaria’s parents taught her that she was capable of achieving anything she put her mind to. Zaria wrote a book about growing up with facial deformities. This inspired her and others to advocate and assist those in need. Zaria’s motto is “You will be great no matter the obstacles you face.” Congratulations Zaria! We are inspired by your story and commitment to impact our communities worldwide. We wish you much success in the Forensics field! We admire your passion, bravery, and strength to achieve your endeavors. Good luck in your pursuits. 
 
2024 Fully Bloomed Scholarship presented by Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF) – Congratulations to Iris-Gracee Monye, who was selected to receive the 2024 Fully Bloomed Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to mothers who pursue any form of post-secondary education, which may include, but is not limited to, college degrees, certifications, licenses, trainings, and workshops. Iris-Gracee Monye is currently pursuing a Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree. “This decision stems from a deep-seated passion for helping individuals with hearing impairments and a commitment to making a tangible difference in their lives”, says Iris-Gracee. In addition, Iris-Gracee hopes to inspire her daughter to positively contributing to our communities. Iris-Gracee aspires to “establish her own mobile audiology practice, offering accessible, comprehensive hearing care services to a wide range of patients. Her goal is to create a patient-centered practice that emphasizes personalized care, cutting-edge technology, and a compassionate approach.” Congratulations Iris-Gracee! We are inspired by your accomplishments and your determination to accomplish your goals. We wish you much success as you earn your degree and contribute to our communities’ health and well-being. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors.  OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership, academic, and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives. These initiatives support individuals & organizations dedicated to advancing women’s rights in STEM/STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, & Math) and continuing education support for Mothers.
 
Shengqian (Cece) Yu
2023 Be a Rising Bud Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to high school seniors and/or college freshman in pursuit of an undergraduate degree with a concentration in the Arts. 
 
Cece has a passion for the Arts. She is a sculptor, a graphic designer, a painter, and an artist. Every piece she creates reflects where she came from and what she has learned. Cece says, “every creation I make comes to life in the womb of fantasy from my mind—exploring the emotional links between lifelong stories and my knowledge…My creations are my means of communication, not limited to the structure of sentence formats or the media and styles. My thoughts are communicated through each line and brushstroke…”. Cece would like to be a visual storyteller to illustrate story books for children. She would like to tell stories where children can seek comfort.
 
Congratulations Cece! We wish you much success as you pursue your degree. We hope you succeed in Visual Storytelling and whatever you put your mind to! We look forward to seeing the visual beauty you create in our world. 
 
 
Lizzette Lilliana Cordero
2023 STEM to Flowers Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to a high school senior and/or college freshman in pursuit of an undergraduate degree with a concentration in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) 
 
While Lizzette comes from a family of construction workers, she chose to pursue a career in the medical field. Lizzette says, “I grew up watching Grey’s Anatomy which I believe was my medical awakening. In the show Callie Torres (former head of orthopedic surgery) she represented a strong Hispanic woman character and always took initiative on her cases. She was my role model since she portrays such a strong leadership role…I’ve always had a passion for helping my community. My goal is to be an Orthopedic Surgeon in the Air Force…” Lizzette has had to overcome many challenges but is driven to succeed her goals. After college, she will go into the Air Force and after her service, plans to open up her own Orthopedic practice. 
 
Congratulations Lizzette! We wish you much success as you pursue your undergraduate degree followed by military service. Continue to pursue your dreams in the medical field! We admire your honesty, determination, and drive to achieve your goals. Good luck! You’ve got this!
 
Cheryl Tomlin
2023 Fully Bloomed Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to mothers who pursue any form of post-secondary education, which may include, but is not limited to, college degrees, certifications, licenses, trainings, and workshops.
 
Cheryl’s interest in Occupational Therapy came after her daughter was born. As a special needs child, Cheryl had to use services such as Occupational Therapy to support her daughter. Cheryl says, “I kept journal after journal of every nurse and doctor who saw Bevy, stats on vitals, tips for caring. I was next to her OTs and PTs every step of the way. I heard more than once, “you’re a natural at this, you should be an OT,” and at the time brushed the compliment off. I was a mom, just doing the best she could to help her child…Just as my daughter’s therapist provided care and support for us, I am ready to become a therapist…”
 
Congratulations Cheryl! We are so inspired and wish you much success in this next phase of your education. You have been resilient throughout your daughter’s journey and we have no doubt that you will achieve your goals. Good luck in your future endeavors.
 
Alyssa Garzoria
2023 Fully Bloomed Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to mothers who pursue any form of post-secondary education, which may include, but is not limited to, college degrees, certifications, licenses, trainings, and workshops.
 
Alyssa Garzoria is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing at Chamberlain University. Alyssa’s hope is to pursue a career in pediatrics. “I want to be able to help and care for children as well as be able to impact and support the parents. Attaining this degree would be the biggest accomplishment for both me and my family. It would show that no matter what you go through, you can reach your goals…This degree would be for my daughter, who I hope to provide with a better life and show her that her mother does not give up. I want to show her that every struggle was just making me stronger to pursue my goals. I hope I inspire her to get up even when it feels like all is lost.”
 
 
 
 
 
Azaria Smallwood
2022 Rising Bud Scholarship
Azaria Smallwood who was selected to receive the 2022 Be a Rising Bud Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to high-school seniors and/or college freshman in pursuit of an undergraduate degree with a concentration in the Arts. Azaria has a passion for the arts and movement, whether it’s ice skating, dancing, skiing or horseback riding. As a child, her grandmother inspired her to do craftwork. “I was knitting hats and crocheting placemats before I could read”. Her grandmother knitted some of her clothing throughout her childhood and this inspired her to become engaged in Fashion. “Fashion has become essential in how I connect with others, but most importantly, it has lifted up my own confidence”. Azaria will be pursuing a Bachelors of Fine Arts degree in Rhode Island beginning this Fall. Congratulations Azaria! We wish you much success as you pursue your Fine Arts degree. We hope you succeed in the Arts, Equestrian community and whatever you put your mind to! You got this!
 
 
 
Siera Woods 
2022 Fully Bloomed Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to mothers who pursue any form of post-secondary education, which may include, but is not limited to, college degrees, certifications, licenses, trainings, workshops.
 
As a mother of three children, Siera endured a lot throughout her life, especially as a teen mom. Although she did not have much guidance during her adolescence, she was determined and resilient when it came to providing for her children. Today, Siera is pursing a bachelor’s degree in General Studies with a minor in Small Business Management and Entrepreneurship in Maryland. Siera has “a passion for biology, educating, and I am an aspiring entrepreneur… I want to start a nonprofit that will serve families and individuals in my community who may need resources for shelter, food, and clothing.” Siera is the first in her family to graduate from high school and will be the first to graduate college.
 
Congratulations Siera! We wish you much success as you earn your Bachelors Degree. You have been resilient throughout and we have no doubt that you will achieve your goals. Good luck in your future endeavors.
 
Tina Chi
2022 STEM to Flowers Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to a high-school seniors and/or college freshman in pursuit of an undergraduate degree with a concentration in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math)
As President (and Founder) of the Computer Science Club in HS, Tina encourages other young women to believe in themselves and explore STEM. Having a passion for STEM fields, Tina participated in the Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program (GWC SIP) where they made useful websites that help fight real issues from a small personal website, a mini quiz, to a social activist website. Tina is the epitome of perseverance. When she “entered in the Congressional App Challenge. One week before the deadline…the app files accidentally erased. So, I had to start the entire project that I’ve worked 4 months on over. I had 1 week to complete it and with knowledge of how to create the app, I persevered and finished right before the deadline. My app, Got Covid?, won first place in the Congressional app challenge. Accomplishments and setbacks like these encourage me to work harder.” 
 
Congratulations Tina! We wish you much success as you pursue your undergraduate degree at the University of Florida this Fall. Continue to pursue your dreams in STEM! This is only the beginning! 
 

Lyndsey Darnell
Fully Bloomed, May 2021 

Congratulations to Lyndsey Darnell. Lyndsey was selected to receive the 2021 Fully Bloomed Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to mothers who pursue any form of post-secondary education, which may include, but is not limited to, certifications, licenses, trainings, workshops. Lyndsey is currently pursuing Social Work at the Texas A&M University Commerce. She currently volunteers her time in helping with juvenile trafficking and crisis intervention to prison ministry and foster youth. She one day plans on creating a nonprofit that will target repeat juvenile offenders and aging out foster youth. We are honored to support

Jamellah Jackson
STEM to Flowers, May 2021

Jamellah was selected to receive the 2021 STEM to Flowers Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to a high-school seniors and/or college freshman in pursuit of an undergraduate degree with a concentration in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math). Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and the health field is important to Jamellah. She looks forward to becoming a nurse-midwife to help our communities. Jamellah will be attending Florida A&M University in Fall 2021. We are honored to support Jamellah in her education and journey through the STEM to Flowers.

Tabytha Jimenez
Be A Rising Bud, May 2021

Tabytha was selected to receive the 2021 Be a Rising Bud Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to high-school seniors and/or college freshman in pursuit of an undergraduate degree with a concentration in the Arts. Tabytha’s love for art blossomed at a young age and impacted her future goals in life. She enjoys creating and designing. She is intrigued with graphic design and hopes to become a graphic designer. Tabytha will be attending the University of Oklahoma in Fall 2021 to pursue her dreams. We are honored to support Tabytha in her education and journey through the Be a Rising Bud.

Kimberly Santiago
The B.E.T.A. Scholarship, May 2020 – Kimberly is presently attending the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College pursuing her Master’s Degree. Kimberly desires to be a Social Worker. A career goal of Kimberly’s is to obtain the position of Program Director, in her field of social work, to provide families & children, with positivity, strong guidance, and to uplift the communities Kimberly will one day service. It is an honor that the B.E.T.A Scholarship is able to assist Kimberly in her education & journey!  Monetary donations, especially in these unprecedented times, truly make a difference and Kimberly will make great use of this scholarship.

Jillian Kygar
STEM to Flower Scholarship,  May 2020 – Jillian will be attending Ottawa University, majoring in Biology, and will play softball for the University. Jillian wants to become a pediatric dentist.  It is an honor that the STEM to Flowers Scholarship is able to assist Jillian in her education & journey!  Monetary donations, especially in these unprecedented times, truly make a difference and Jillian will make great use of this scholarship.

 

Giesha Smith
Fully Bloomed Scholarship,  May 2020 – Geisha presently attends Prince George’s Community College with a concentration in Psychology.  Geisha dreams of becoming a Psychiatrist and has a strong passion for helping the black communities positively with a focus on mental health & well-being.  It is an honor that the Fully Bloomed Scholarship is able to assist Geisha in her education & journey!  Monetary donations, especially in these unprecedented times, truly make a difference and Geisha will make great use of this scholarship.

 

Lia Haynes
Be A Rising Bud Scholarship, May 2020 – Lia presently attends Temple University with a double major in Dance & Africology and African American Studies. Lia aspires to be a professional dancer/choreographer and become an advocate for the arts mainly focused on disenfranchised communities. It is an honor that the Be a Rising Bud Scholarship is able to assist Lia in her education & journey!  Monetary donations, especially in these unprecedented times, truly make a difference and Lia will make great use of this scholarship.

 

 
 
 
 
Sheree Al’Damen
Fully Bloomed Scholarship, May 2019
Sheree is a mother who currently attends the University of Houston at Clear Lake majoring in Art & Design.👏 She aspires to be a graphics designer in marketing.  We are so honored to have helped another mom fulfill her educational goals with monetary donations by our supporters this year!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Kamaya Walker
Rising Bud Scholarship, May 2019
Kamaya currently attends the North Carolina A&T State University majoring in Journalism & Mass Communications major. 👏 She aspires to be a FILM DIRECTOR! 🎥 We are so honored to have helped another young woman fulfill her educational goals with monetary donations by our supporters this year!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Alison Jin
STEM to Flowers Recipient, May 2019 
Alison currently attends the University of Texas in Austin and is pursuing a career in Engineering. We are so honored to have helped another young woman fulfill her educational goals with monetary donations by our supporters this year!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Kandice Johnson
Be a Rising Bud Recipient, May 2018

Kandice attended Benjamin Banneker High School in Washington D.C. and graduated with a 3.76 GPA! She has been accepted to Morgan State University where she’ll begin studying Illustration & Communication Arts this fall and hopes to become a professional Illustrator. She recently participated in the “Art Labs” teen program and her work from this program will be exhibited at the Smithsonian Museum soon.

 

Melanie Kight

Fully Bloomed Recipient, May 2018

Melanie attends Shenandoah University in Winchester, Virginia and currently has a 3.91 GPA! She is studying to obtain her Doctor of Pharmacy degree to further her career in the pharmaceutical industry. Melanie is also a mother of 5.⠀

 

Mary Galeano
Stem to Flowers Recipient, May 2018

Mary attended Seminole High School in Sanford, Florida, and graduated with a 3.83 GPA! She has been accepted to Seminole State College, where she’ll begin studying biology this fall and hopes to become a Veterinarian. She currently volunteers at her local zoo.⠀