The Urban League of Northwest Indiana did not let the Covid-19 Pandemic stop the celebration of their scholarship recipients. On Thursday, June 25th from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., the organization featured each scholarship winner virtually via Facebook live as they walked the “Scholarship Red Carpet” at the headquarters located at 3101 Broadway in Gary.
“Education is one of the greatest pillars of our mission,” said Urban League of NWI President and CEO Dr. Vanessa Allen-McCloud. “We must seize every opportunity to highlight the accomplishments of our youth.”
For years, the organization would host a tri-county (Lake, LaPorte and Porter) scholarship luncheon where the youth are honored in front of their families, educators and peers. The spread of COVID-19 caused organizers to get creative this year. Each recipient had a reserved time to walk the red carpet with social distancing being fully enforced. Supporters can view the presentations on Urban League’s Facebook page.
“There were several benefits to this virtual celebration,” added Allen-McCloud. “Every student had his or her big moment, people tuned in from anywhere, and if you missed the live broadcast, you can always watch the playback.”
A total of $35,000 was awarded from a diverse pool of donor organizations, companies and individuals. Several of the donors and board members were also in attendance to participate in the presentations.
“We were so excited that the team at the Urban League of NWI Indiana developed a creative way to honor the scholarship winners,” said Board Chairman Dr. Thomas L. Keon, Chancellor of Purdue University Northwest. “We are proud of their accomplishments, and I am sure the students and their families appreciated the recognition.”
For information about the Urban League of NWI, call 219-887-9621 or visit www.ulofnwi.org. Videos and photos of the celebration are also located on the Urban League of NWI’s Facebook page.
