Samford University has received a $5,000 grant from the Birmingham chapter of Jack and Jill of America Inc. to support the annual Minority Youth Science Academy (MYSA) scheduled for June 26–29.
MYSA is a four-day residential program offering college preparation and mentoring for outstanding minority high school students who aspire to careers in the sciences, according to Denise Gregory, Samford’s director of diversity and intercultural initiatives. Gregory, who also is assistant professor of chemistry, coordinates the program.
Gregory said the 17 students attending this year’s academy will have hands-on experiments in the sciences, and participate in other activities that include college application counseling, study skills and test preparation, networking and mentoring, and social activities. They also will have an opportunity to interact with minority scientists and college science students.
In a letter accompanying the grant, Birmingham chapter president Donna R. Lawson noted that Jack and Jill of America believes that “every child, if given the proper guidance and opportunity, can develop into a leader.” The chapter “dedicates its resources to improving the quality of life for children,” particularly African-American children.
Lawson and Foundation Chair Terri Gardner presented the grant check to Gregory.
The grant will be used for need-based scholarships for students to help offset the $350 fee that includes tuition, room, meals, materials and activities, Gregory explained.
This is the third year for Samford’s Office of Diversity and Intercultural Initiatives to sponsor MYSA.
