Contributed by Jordyn Fields
Jay-Z recently held his inaugural gala to support his namesake Shawn Carter Foundation. The organization was started in 2003 by Jay-Z and his mother, Gloria Carter and serves to provide low income students with scholarships, college prep, study abroad and professional development.
This year the organization raised $6 million dollars to support future scholars. Many previous winners come from single parent households and have an income of less than $40,000.
The event was packed with celebrities who supported cause including Jay-Z’s wife, Beyonce, DJ Khaled, Meek Mill, Swizz Beatz, Fabolous and Tyler Perry. The event was hosted by Robin Roberts and included a performance from Alicia Keys.
Students 25 years old or younger from any place in the nation can apply to the scholarship. The minimum GPA requirement is 2.0 and student can be enrolled in a 2 year school, 4 year school, high school senior or have obtained their GED.
Even if students do not have a high GPA they are encouraged to apply as many factors are considered in the selection process, including the quality of the essay, socioeconomic factors, community service and leadership.
The scholarship application opens on April 1st and closes April 30th.
