October 11, 2024
CHARLESTON – The Meeting Street Scholarship Fund has made an unprecedented investment in the future of South Carolina by awarding $15.5 million to students.
The 396 new recipients are the largest cohort in the Fund’s history, with each receiving up to $40,000 toward their college journey. All told, the scholarship has committed $38 million to 952 students.
“This investment significantly enhances the educational opportunities for these deserving students over the next four years,” said Josh Bell, president of Beemok Education, which includes the Scholarship Fund. “This scholarship empowers students and paves the way for a brighter future for them as individuals as well as our entire state.”
The Meeting Street Scholarship Fund is a college promise scholarship, meaning any student who meets its five qualifying criteria are guaranteed to receive up to $40,000. The money can be used for tuition, housing, food or fees.
The Scholarship’s goal is to enhance college access and affordability for high-achieving students with demonstrated financial need. The Scholarship’s criteria include:
The Meeting Street Scholarship launched in 2021 in Charleston County as a privately funded scholarship by philanthropists Ben and Kelly Navarro. With the support of visionary partners, including the Darla Moore Foundation, Dave Proctor, Jessica and Todd Aaron and other anonymous donors, the Scholarship has expanded to 12 South Carolina counties.
The Scholarship seeks to continue growing and ultimately serve eligible students in all 46 of the state’s counties as part of its ambitious Mission 46 initiative.
“We’re creating a new generation of college graduates in South Carolina, and with the support of our donors, are transforming the landscape of higher education in our state,” Bell said.
Students who live in seven of the 10 poorest counties in the state are eligible to receive the Scholarship, and every dollar donated goes directly to scholarship, thanks to the generosity of the Navarros who cover all operational costs.
The Scholarship’s recipients have an average 3.24 college GPA and 44 percent are first-generation college students. Twenty-two percent of all recipients reside in a rural county.
In addition to financial support, the Scholarship acts as a support network. Starting during students’ senior year of high school through college graduation, the Scholarship offers programming and leadership opportunities to help ensure college success.
And initial outcomes are promising. Ninety-four percent of recipients who have completed at least one year of college have graduated or are on track to graduate.
“We’re proud of our recipients, and we look forward to creating more life-changing opportunities for South Carolina students,” Bell said.
© 2024 Meeting Street Scholarship Fund|Policies
