What happens when young Black students look around a hospital and see no one who looks like them? They become the change they want to see. Meet Paris Holiday and Lenroy Elbowie, two extraordinary scholars headed to Hampton University and Florida A&M University, respectively, both with dreams of transforming the medical field through representation.

Paris, a Philadelphia native and future Hampton student, shares how breaking her leg years ago became a pivotal moment in her life. Looking around the hospital room at predominantly white doctors, she felt uncomfortable and decided then that she would become the Black anesthesiologist that future generations could look to for comfort and inspiration. As a first-generation college student with neurodivergent siblings, Paris brings a unique perspective on diversity and inclusion, viewing her education not just as personal advancement but as building a legacy of Black doctors within her family.

Meanwhile, Glenroy carries forward a rich family tradition of HBCU excellence. With relatives who attended Morgan State, Howard, Hampton, and Virginia State, his decision to attend FAMU continues a proud legacy. Caught between becoming an anesthesiologist or plastic surgeon, Lenroy articulates a powerful vision for how HBCUs prepare students to advocate for change when faced with institutional barriers. His philosophy of "leading with purpose means lifting up others as you climb" showcases how these young scholars view their educational journeys as opportunities to create systemic change.

Both students represent the transformative power of HBCUs in nurturing the next generation of Black excellence in healthcare. Their stories remind us why supporting these institutions and students matters—because representation saves lives. Vote for your favorite contestant in the Takisha A. Davis Scholarship Award competition and help these future medical professionals bring their vision of equitable healthcare to life.

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The search for the next Takisha A Davis Scholarship recipient heats up as we meet exceptional finalists headed to Historically Black Colleges and Universities this fall. This unique award doesn't focus on GPAs but rather seeks students with unwavering determination, compelling essays, and the ability to shine through multiple interviews.

Host Dr. Monique Robinson welcomes two standout candidates who represent the incredible diversity of talent within the HBCU-bound student community. First, we meet Ayden Glover from Jacksonville, Florida, who will continue her family's powerful legacy as a fourth-generation Rattler at Florida A&M University. With plans to major in political science on a pre-law track, Aiden articulates a mature understanding of how political decisions impact communities and why HBCUs create vital spaces where students feel genuinely valued. Her perspective on diversity, equity, and inclusion reveals wisdom beyond her years.

The competition takes an athletic turn when we meet William Osby II, a record-holding hurdler from Frisco, Texas, committed to Prairie View A&M University. Despite his impressive track record, William displays remarkable humility while sharing his vision for double-majoring in kinesiology with a minor in teaching. His passion for mentorship and desire to guide future student-athletes reveal the depth of character that has kept him consistently at the top of the competition rankings. Coming from a family with strong HBCU ties, including Howard University alumni, William brings a thoughtful perspective on how these institutions help students from diverse backgrounds "grow together and prosper together."

As the scholarship competition narrows from 66 candidates toward the final recipients, these interviews capture why HBCUs remain transformative educational environments that cultivate tomorrow's leaders. Watch previous episodes to meet all the amazing finalists, and don't forget to vote for the candidate who most inspires you before the field narrows further!

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We highlight remarkable students from across the country competing for the Takesha A. Davis Scholarship, which supports attendance at HBCUs with no GPA requirements. Each scholar shares their personal journey and why they've chosen HBCUs as their educational path forward.

• Lashari Patterson-Davis from Las Vegas is headed to Morgan State University to study nursing with plans to address diversity issues in healthcare
• Aniyah Faith Williams from Jacksonville will attend Florida A&M University for biology with a pre-dentistry focus, following a family legacy of FAMU graduates
• Amaris James from North Carolina will begin at Fayetteville State immediately after graduation to study sociology and find community among peers with shared experiences
• Mayonna LeGronne from Michigan will attend Howard University on a pre-med track with specific goals to combat racial health disparities and reduce maternal mortality rates among Black women
• All scholars articulated thoughtful perspectives on the importance of HBCUs and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in today's political climate
• The scholarship honors Takesha A. Davis, who never had the opportunity to attend college herself

Support these extraordinary students by visiting our social platforms under A Better Chance for Youth, Inc., and ABC Television to vote for your favorite scholars as they compete to make the top 10.

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Ever wonder what drives today's brightest young scholars to choose Historically Black Colleges and Universities? Join host Monique Robinson as she sits down with finalists for the prestigious Takesha A Davis Scholarship Award who share powerful insights into their educational journeys.

Meet Amari Bond from Baltimore, an aspiring music educator heading to Bowie State University this fall. Carrying forward a family legacy of HBCU graduates, Amari articulates how attending an HBCU will help him "connect to my roots" while preparing him to teach students from diverse backgrounds. His thoughtful perspective on how this educational environment will shape his future career reveals wisdom beyond his years.

We also hear from a student transitioning from Atlanta to Prairie View A&M University in Texas, who speaks candidly about wanting an education that "represents my legacy and more of my culture." Despite the nervousness that comes with such a significant life change, his determination shines through as he shares his vision of becoming an example of excellence and leadership. His powerful statement that HBCUs have been "a stronghold for people of color" throughout history demonstrates the deep understanding these young scholars have about the institutional significance of their college choices.

As these candidates await news about advancing in the scholarship competition, their stories highlight how HBCUs continue to nurture the next generation of leaders, educators, and changemakers. Subscribe to hear more inspiring conversations with these remarkable young scholars as they prepare to make their mark on the world.

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The future looks bright as we sit down with the top 65 finalists for the Takisha A Davis Scholarship, a dedicated award for students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Each young scholar shares their unique story, revealing not just where they're headed this fall, but why they've chosen the powerful legacy of HBCUs to shape their futures.

From Liliana's chemistry aspirations at Howard University and plans to create inclusive skincare products, to Amari's dreams of wildlife conservation through Tuskegee's veterinary program, these students demonstrate remarkable clarity about their paths forward. Sinclair, a talented jazz drummer and DJ, thoughtfully explains why studying at North Carolina Central University connects her deeply to Black musical heritage, while Devron speaks proudly of continuing his family's multi-generational HBCU tradition at North Carolina A&T.

What truly shines through is the profound understanding these young people have of the significance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in today's world. Mackenzie powerfully asserts that "DEI is not a trend" and affects everyone regardless of background. Morgan, whose activism included leading affinity groups at her predominantly white high school, frames DEI simply as "representation matters." Perhaps most thought-provoking is Dantrell's perspective as a future political science major at Southern University, challenging conventional thinking about who benefits most from inclusion initiatives.

Beyond their academic pursuits, these students reveal how HBCUs represent cultural preservation in challenging times. As one student eloquently states, these institutions serve as "museums to legacy," maintaining traditions and excellence while preparing a new generation to lead. The genuine excitement about joining campus communities – from Southern University's renowned marching band to Spelman's supportive sisterhood – reveals how these choices represent not just an education, but a transformative personal journey.

Watch as we connect students headed to the same universities, fostering community before they even step on campus. These interviews offer just a glimpse into the exceptional talent, vision, and leadership these HBCU-bound scholars will bring to campuses across America.

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Dr. Monique Robinson welcomes Dr. Justin Say and four new members of the Wilberforce University Choir to celebrate their growing legacy and ambitious upcoming concert season.

• Choir membership has doubled to 72 students for the 2025-2026 season
• Dr. Say highlights upcoming performances including three AME conferences, Carnegie Hall, and Mother Bethel
• New members share their musical backgrounds and excitement about joining the choir family
• The choir will perform a concert version of Porgy and Bess in November
• Five specialized ensembles offer additional opportunities for students to develop their talents
• The strong connection between the AME Church and Wilberforce University provides support and performance venues
• This year's choir theme is "There Remaineth the Rest," focusing on faith and purpose
• Dr. Say emphasizes the importance of preserving Wilberforce's legacy that includes notable alumni like Charity Adams and Dorothy Vaughn

If you'd like to support the Wilberforce University Choir, visit wilberforce.edu, go to the institutional advancement page, and select "choir" when donating. Follow them on Facebook at Wilberforce University Chorus and Instagram at WooChorus1856.

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Kaylee Irving shares her journey as a first-year student at Prairie View A&M University, balancing motherhood, academics, and campus involvement while maintaining a strong GPA and clear future goals.

• Participated in Prairie View's Summer Bridge program to ease transition to college life
• Selected Prairie View to balance independence with proximity to her young son
• Maintains academic excellence with mostly A's despite additional responsibilities
• Serves in Student Government Association as Panther Aid Chair of the Judicial Branch
• Pursuing Criminal Justice major with plans to advocate for women, juveniles, and minorities
• Exploring internship opportunities including an FBI summer program
• Plans to eventually pursue law school and ultimately a PhD
• Advises high school seniors to stay true to themselves and take college transition one day at a time
• Emphasizes the importance of networking with alumni for opportunities and mentorship

If you're a Prairie View alum interested in connecting with Kaylee, please reach out to her at KIrving6@PVAMU.edu to offer mentorship, internship opportunities, or guidance in the criminal justice field.

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Two old friends reconnect during Black History Month, delivering a conversation as rich and nourishing as Sunday dinner. Ashley Anya, once the first female drummer at Corinthian Baptist Church, now splits her time between the States and Mexico as a DJ and healthcare entrepreneur.

From the moment they start reminiscing about their shared past, the conversation flows with genuine warmth and honesty. Ashley's perspective as a Black American living abroad reveals something beautiful: "When it comes to the people who are of this land, they embrace us and respect us as brothers and sisters." This cross-cultural connection manifests in powerful ways, like drum circles where African rhythms meet Mayan traditions.

The heart of their discussion tackles colorism—a reality so normalized that some don't believe it exists. Ashley brilliantly connects this to the Drake versus Kendrick Lamar feud, explaining how it represents broader questions about which Black voices get amplified: "White America has created what is normal to the extent that somebody can say that something as obvious as colorism doesn't exist." She unpacks how certain artists receive industry support while others face barriers despite equal talent.

Their shared foundation at Corinthian Baptist Church becomes a touchpoint for discussing authentic representation and cultural education. "I learned 90% of what I know about my people there," Ashley reflects. This grounding allowed them to recognize and reject harmful stereotypes while embracing their heritage.

Ashley's parting wisdom resonates with ancestral power: "Don't ever downplay what our ancestors did for us, how they fought for us... As melanated people on this earth, there are more people who look like you and who you can connect with culturally than not... We'll be fine, because that's our history."

Listen to this episode to experience the unfiltered truth that emerges when authentic voices speak freely. Check out Ashley's DJ sets on social media @DJEasyWine or learn about her rehabilitation clinic, Marathon Medical, in Dayton, Ohio.

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