Another Successful Project ENRICH Year Closes With Annual Scholarship Banquet

The Memorial Day weekend is generally considered the unofficial start of the summer vacation season. But when it comes to our young people's education, Gamma Pi never takes a vacation. That is why the Brothers who work with Project ENRICH and the Charles Drew Memorial Scholarship Fund were all  "on duty" Saturday at the National Wildlife Visitors Center in Laurel along with a full contingent of parents and students for the Third Annual Scholarship Banquet.

The purpose of the scholarship banquet was to recognize seniors who received more than $5 million in scholarship funds this year, including 10 students from Prince George's County schools of which three were from Project ENRICH who received $3,000 each from the Charles Drew Memorial Scholarship Fund. In addition, the program honored essay contest winners who competed at all four grade levels (9-12) in April, as well as the Parent of the Year and the School of the Year for the just-completed 2024-25 academic calendar. 

This year's class was comprised of 35 seniors, 32 juniors, 22 sophomores and 14 freshmen, according to program chairman Bro. Dr. George Montgomery, Jr. These students come from 25 local schools.

American Urban Radio Network White House beat reporter Ebony McMorris brought forth a strong and interesting keynote speech that connected with students and parents. Her message centered on students -- and their parents -- seeing themselves through the lens of success, talent, and prosperity. " Speaking metaphorically about the power of the lens, she challenged the students, especially the seniors, to capture their stories, shape their images and keep the "focus" on their stories. "Each of you were born at the right time and chosen for a time such as this. What will you do with the lens that you have been given?"

Students also heard from Charles Drew chairman Bro. Brett Blake, along with vice chair Bro. Willie Hines, Bro. Dr. John Howard, Bro. Brian K. Long, former program director Bro. James Riley, Jr. and Gamma Pi Basileus Bro. Eric Fields, who reminded students that getting a scholarship was about more than just the money but also about the responsibility to use it to achieve success.

This year Project ENRICH will celebrate 40 years. It began with a plan to close the education gap between Black and White students. In the program's existence, a total of 922 students have completed Project ENRICH with a 100% college placement rate. Also during this time the Charles Drew Memorial Scholarship Fund has awarded $1.5 million to deserving Prince George's County seniors and Project ENRICH scholars.

At the end of the program, students and families enjoyed a hearty catered meal at the venue. You can see more photos here. You can also view, download and save the official program guide at this link.