WE ARE THE CHANGE HAPPENING SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

Four-Year Scholarship Application Packet

Due July 20th, 2026

Purpose

The We Are the Change Happening Scholarship Program was created to empower the next generation of leaders, changemakers, and community advocates by investing in education, service, leadership, and civic responsibility and address the reduction in scholarship opportunities for minority students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Rooted in the belief that ordinary people have the power to create extraordinary impact, the program seeks to support students who are committed to uplifting their communities and breaking barriers through education and action.

The organization believes meaningful change happens when individuals are equipped with opportunity, encouraged to lead with purpose, and inspired to serve others through both heart and action.

The scholarship reflects the organization’s commitment to:

· Expanding educational access and opportunity;

· Supporting historically underrepresented and underserved communities;

· Encouraging civic engagement and community leadership;

· Promoting resilience, empowerment, and generational impact; and

· Inspiring individuals to become the change happening within their families, schools, professions, and communities.

Scholarship Overview

The Scholarship Program was established to support students who demonstrate academic promise, leadership potential, community involvement, and a commitment to creating positive change in their communities. Selected recipients will receive up to $2,500 per academic year for up to four (4) consecutive years, subject to annual renewal requirements and funding availability.

The purpose of this scholarship is to encourage and invest in students who embody scholarship, service, leadership, resilience, and civic responsibility. The program is designed to support students from historically underrepresented, marginalized, or underserved communities who seek to create positive change through education, leadership, advocacy, and community impact.

Consistent with the mission of We Are the Change Happening, this scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate the courage to overcome obstacles, the willingness to serve others, and the vision to help create stronger and more empowered communities for future generations.

Scholarship Award Details

Award Amount: Up to $2,500 per academic year

Renewal Period: Up to four (4) years total

Eligible Use of Funds:

• Tuition
• Required fees
• Books and educational supplies
• Other approved educational expenses

Renewal Requirements:

To remain eligible for scholarship renewal each year, recipients must:

1. Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale;

2. Remain enrolled as a full-time student unless otherwise approved;

3. Demonstrate continued participation in community service, leadership, or civic engagement activities;

4. Submit an annual renewal application and unofficial transcript by the required deadline;

5. Participate in reasonable scholarship program media and engagement activities associated with We Are the Change Happening initiatives, which may include video testimonials, interviews, written reflections, attendance at scholarship or community events, promotional features, mentorship spotlights, or other storytelling and outreach opportunities intended to highlight student success, inspire others, and support the mission of the organization.

6. Remain in good academic and disciplinary standing with their educational institution.

Failure to meet renewal requirements may result in suspension or termination of scholarship funding.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

· Be a graduating high school senior or current college student;

· Identify as a person of color, member of the LGBTQ+ community, or an individual who has faced extraordinary personal, social, economic, educational, or life circumstances;

· Plan to attend or currently attend an accredited Historically Black College or University (HBCU);

· Possess a 3.2 GPA or demonstrate significant improvement in academic performance over high school career;

· Demonstrate academic achievement, leadership, resilience, and community involvement;

· Submit all required application materials by the stated deadline.

The scholarship program recognizes that talent, leadership, and potential often emerge through adversity. Applicants are encouraged to share how their lived experiences, identity, challenges, or commitment to uplifting others have shaped their educational journey and future aspirations.

Required Application Materials

Applicants must submit the following:

· Completed scholarship application;

· Most recent official or unofficial transcript;

· Essay response.

Optional Submissions

· One (1) letter of recommendation from a teacher, mentor, counselor, employer, coach, or community leader;

· Optional supporting materials (certificates, awards, portfolio items, etc.).

Transcripts, letters of recommendations and any other options supporting documentation can be emailed to watch.inc.indiana@gmail.com.

Application Link: WE ARE THE CHANGE HAPPENING SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION 2026-2027

Send questions to watch.inc.indiana@gmail.com.