“Faith and Education are the Tigris and Euphrates of our liberation, twin rivers at the source of our redemption. Without a trained mind and a centered heart, you will go nowhere.” – Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III
Honoring a Legacy, Empowering Our Future
At the Abyssinian Baptist Church, we believe in the power of faith and education to transform lives. To honor the enduring legacy of our beloved late Pastor, Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, we are proud to introduce the Calvin O. Butts III Community District 5 Scholarship.
This initiative is a celebration of his commitment to education, community, and the development of tomorrow’s leaders. By uplifting Harlem’s youth and supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), we aim to empower a new generation to achieve their full potential.
About the Scholarship
The Calvin O. Butts III Community District 5 Scholarship provides financial support to high school seniors living within Harlem’s Community District 5. These future leaders will receive funds to help pursue their academic dreams at accredited HBCUs, where they can grow in both mind and faith.
Scholarship Goals
- Support five scholarships of $2,500 initially ($12,500 total).
- Expand the program to sustain five $5,000 scholarships annually ($25,000 total).
- Build a legacy of leaders known as the Calvin Otis Butts III Community Scholars.
Applicant Criteria
Are you a Harlem high school senior dreaming of attending an HBCU? Here’s what you need to apply:
- Residency/School Requirements: You must either live in Harlem’s Community District 5 and attend a NYC Public School/Public Charter School OR graduate from a NYC Public School/Public Charter School within Harlem’s Community District 5.
- Leadership & Service: Demonstrate leadership skills and a commitment to community service or volunteer work.
- Academic Commitment: Present an official transcript with a minimum GPA of 2.5.
- Enrollment at an HBCU: Be admitted to and enrolled in an accredited HBCU.
- Application Materials:
- Completed scholarship application form.
- A written biography.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- A professional-quality headshot.
- Interview: Participate in an interview with our Scholarship Selection Committee.
- Deadline: Please submit your application on or before June 18th
How You Can Help
We’re inviting the entire community—and beyond—to join us in making this vision a reality. By contributing to the scholarship fund, you are making an investment in the future of Harlem’s youth and continuing Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III’s lifelong mission of fostering excellence through faith and education.
Together, we can meet our annual $25,000 goal for scholarships and inspire the next generation of leaders.
Impacting Lives Through Faith and Education
With your support, we are not just providing financial assistance; we are creating opportunities for students to thrive in a faith-driven and academically enriching environment. The “Calvin Otis Butts III Community Scholars” will carry their education and values into the world, making a difference wherever they go.