In the vibrant Queen City, opportunities abound for those willing to reach out and seize them. For LGBTQ+ and ally college students, one such opportunity has emerged as a beacon of hope and empowerment: the Charlotte Pride Scholarship & Internship Program. Generously supported by the Principal® Foundation, this initiative is back for another year, ready to make a difference in the lives of young people pursuing higher education.
At its core, the Charlotte Pride Scholarship & Internship Program is all about breaking barriers and fostering success. Designed to improve economic mobility for LGBTQ+ and ally college students in the Charlotte metro area, this program offers more than just financial assistance. It provides a pathway to academic and professional achievement, empowering recipients to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.
From the prestigious Champion of Pride Scholarship to the Visionary Scholarships, there are opportunities available for students at different stages of their academic journey. What’s more, recipients of the summer internship experience gain valuable hands-on experience working alongside Charlotte Pride staff, along with a $5,000 stipend and $2,500 scholarship for the following academic year.
But the impact of the Charlotte Pride Scholarship & Internship Program extends far beyond financial support. It’s about recognition and empowerment. It’s about celebrating diversity and inclusion. Ideal applicants are high school seniors or college students with a GPA of 3.0 or above who have demonstrated service to the LGBTQ+ community or a strong desire to do so. By investing in these individuals, the program not only transforms lives but also strengthens the fabric of our community.
The success stories of past scholarship recipients serve as a testament to the transformative power of this initiative. These individuals have not only pursued their academic aspirations but have also become advocates and leaders within the LGBTQ+ community. Their experiences highlight the importance of programs like the Charlotte Pride Scholarship & Internship Program in creating pathways to success for all.
Last year’s Champions of Pride Scholarship recipient Monisha Pirela had this to say, “The scholarship means so much to me because it acknowledged my efforts to promote solidarity and be of service to the LGBTQ+ community as well as my commitment to doing well in my studies. Although I did not expect to win the award, I am honored to be among so many other distinguished local LGBTQ+ scholars.”
As we embark on another year of empowering futures, we extend our gratitude to the Principal® Foundation for their unwavering support. Their generous donation has enabled us to expand the reach and impact of this program, providing even more students with the resources and support they need to thrive.
To those considering applying for the Charlotte Pride Scholarship & Internship Program, I urge you to seize this opportunity. Whether you’re a high school senior with big dreams or a college student ready to take the next step in your academic journey, this program is here to support you every step of the way. Together, let’s build a future where all individuals can thrive and succeed.
For more information and to apply, visit Charlotte Pride’s website at https://charlottepride.org/scholarship/.