National Scholars

Girls Incorporated Lucile Miller Wright Scholars Program

The Scholars Program was created in 1992 when Lucile Miller Wright, a long-time supporter of Girls Incorporated, made a bequest from her estate to fund scholarships expressly for young women members.

Since 1993, Girls Inc. has awarded $2.58 million in scholarships to 413 high school women. Multiple scholarships ($2,500 and $15,000) are awarded each year and may be applied to tuition and expenses at any accredited 2- or 4-year college or university. This is a private scholarship, open only to young women who are in the 11th or 12th grade and who are members of a Girls Incorporated affiliate.

The purpose of the Scholars Program is to make post-secondary education more accessible by offsetting the financial costs. Our goal is to inspire members to succeed in school and to consider a broad range of career possibilities.

$15,000 Awardees

Diamond Broussard
Girls Incorporated of Alameda County
Grade: 12

“Girls Inc. has allowed me to join a sisterhood, making me feel proud to be a girl ...” 

Diamond’s involvement began with the Girls Inc. of Alameda County Girls Advocacy Project, where she helped create and host sexual-health fairs in local high schools and established youth advisory boards for teen-serving clinics in her community. She used the confidence she gained to assume other leadership roles in her high school, such as the Black Student Union president, editor-in-chief of her school paper, and a peer educator. Her career goal is to own a clothing boutique. “Girls Inc. has taught me that it does not matter what type of community I come from; by working hard and by being optimistic, I can achieve whatever I want in life,” she says.

Elayne Castillo
Girls Incorporated of New York City   
Grade: 12

“Community organizations like Girls Inc. are so necessary in our neighborhoods as well as the entire world.”

Elayne says her life changed the day she joined Girls Inc. She credits the programs and staff with teaching her to be proud of her Latina identity, achieve a more positive body image, and to take pride in her accomplishments. Through Girls Inc., Elayne learned to respect herself, to take healthy risks, and gained confidence, becoming more involved in her school and community. After college, Elayne plans on becoming an entrepreneur. She says, “I believe that every girl should have the right to be successful, and there should not be any boundaries preventing her from making her dreams come true.”

Jacklyn Crowley
Girls Incorporated of Lynn   
Grade: 11

“The numerous opportunities that were made available to me as a Girls Incorporated member have been paramount to my growth, and I feel, all of my future successes.”

A participant since age five, Jacklyn has literally grown up with Girls Inc. Jacklyn’s early interest in math and science was strengthened through programs such as Eureka!®   and the Girls Inc. of Lynn Odyssey program focusing on academic achievement. She also credits her involvement with giving her the confidence to try new things, including joining her school softball team without any prior playing experience. In college, she plans to major in either mathematics or marine biology and break the stereotype that only males enter the fields of math and science.  

Jennifer De La Luz
Girls Incorporated of Orange County   
Grade: 12

“When I get to the Girls Inc. center, the staff’s happiness and energy rubs off on me, and I am able to focus on the positive things in my life.”

Jennifer considers Girls Inc. her second home because it is a safe place where she is surrounded by friends and supportive adults. After confronting abuse in her family, Jennifer was able to take control of her life and provide a safe environment for her younger sisters. Through her participation in various Girls Inc. and school activities, she developed into a focused and joyful young woman, who serves as a role model for other girls. Jennifer plans to pursue a career as a forensic psychologist, working to understand why people commit crimes and to help victims of crime or abuse.

Nadia Jeronimo
Girls Incorporated of Orange County   
Grade: 11

“Girls Inc. is focused on helping me become a strong, independent woman so that I can reach my highest potential.”

Nadia once said that she would stay at Girls Inc. all day because it is filled with people who listen and support her and “improves every aspect” of her life. Growing up in a large family that sometimes faced economic difficulty, Nadia learned to value the things that matter most, such as a bed to sleep in, her health, and food every day. Nadia says that Girls Inc. helped her develop the self-confidence and the courage to transfer to a high school where she was able to earn college credits. There, she has excelled academically and focused on her goals of pursuing a degree in ethnic studies, planning eventually to become a college professor.

Morgan Mayers
Girls Incorporated of Omaha    
Grade: 11

“Not only is Girls Inc. fun, but we learn so much.”

Morgan joined Girls Inc. at age six. On her first day, she was scared and wanted to go home, but had made a best friend by the end of the day, and soon looked forward to every program she attended. She credits her involvement with Girls Inc. and the opportunities she has received there with helping her through difficult times in her family. In addition to her leadership roles at Girls Inc., Morgan is involved in her church, her school, National Honor Society, and community volunteering. Morgan hopes to run her own business and give back to the community by providing foster care and being a mentor at Girls Inc.

Sage Mitchell
Girls Incorporated of Northern Alberta   
Grade: 12

“My involvement in Girls Inc. has increased my confidence, self-esteem, pride in myself, and my ability to have a voice in society.”

Since she began attending Girls Inc. four years ago, Sage has participated in many programs and developed a strong sense of volunteerism and a desire to help her Canadian Aboriginal community. Sage works hard to challenge the stereotypes that are often placed upon Aboriginal people and strives to be a positive role model for other Aboriginal girls. Her ability to balance school, family, work, Girls Inc., and her passion for music has given her confidence to aspire for academic and career success. Sage plans to become a music teacher in an Aboriginal community similar to her own.

Hemavattie Ramtahal
Girls Incorporated of the Greater Capital Region 
Grade: 12

“Participating in Girls Inc. programs has helped me mature and use my intelligence and strength to be bold and think outside of the norm.”

Hemavattie faced many challenges growing up, including being raised by her older siblings without her parents and struggling with bad decisions as a young teen. Since joining Girls Inc., Hemavattie has developed into a leader, role model, and outspoken supporter for the organization’s mission. Her involvement included becoming a peer educator and helping other teens learn about reproductive health. Hemavattie hopes to become a gynecologist and open a medical practice for low income women. She explains her path to success by saying, “I have learned to work for what I want and to never give up, because no one was going to hand it to me.”

Laura Walter
Girls Incorporated of Jackson County   
Grade: 12

“Volunteering at Girls Inc. has aided me greatly as I prepare for college next year, helping me to see the needs of others and attempt to meet them.” 

Laura participated in Girls Inc. programs throughout her childhood and later became a teen volunteer. Through her role as a teacher and work with the staff, she gained valuable skills, such as organization, creativity, and teamwork. Laura draws on her own experience as a girl with a physical disability to empathize with and help other girls going through difficult times. She does not allow her disability to limit her activities. She has travelled to advocate on behalf of disabled citizens and is a member of a power soccer team. Laura’s goal is to become a preschool teacher for special-needs, low income children.

Julieth Zapata
Girls Incorporated of Orange County   
Grade: 12

“Girls Inc. is a place where I can express myself freely and explore my ideas without being judged.”

During her four years as a Girls Inc. participant, Julieth learned the importance of knowing who she is and standing up for her own beliefs. She says that Girls Inc. staff pushed her to share her life story and to take pride in her accomplishments. Thanks to the confidence she gained at Girls Inc., Julieth obtained an internship at a middle school, which confirmed her career interest in becoming a social worker for special-needs children. She feels her future opportunities are endless and, as stated in the Girls Inc. Girls’ Bill of RightsSM, knows she has the right to take risks, strive freely, and take pride in her success.

$2,500 Scholarhip Recipients

Celene Alva
Girls Incorporated of the Central Coast   
Grade: 12

“I used to be a shy girl, but due to the Girls Inc. programs, I’ve grown into an outgoing, strong, smart and bold, young woman.”

Celene credits her involvement in Girls Inc. with learning to voice her opinion  without being influenced by the judgments of others. Her participation in Girls Inc. began with programs such as Will Power/Won’t Power ® and the Girls Inc. of the Central Coast Smart Choices high school preparation program. She eventually took on the role of Youth Leader, in which she organized and led activities for other teens, as well as managed aspects of the program such as budgeting, scheduling, and member recruitment. She plans to pursue a degree in communications and a career as either a journalist or photographer to bring to light issues affecting the world.

Taylor Curley
Girls Incorporated of Durham   
Grade: 11

“Through my involvement with Girls Inc., I have grown as an individual and benefited in countless ways.”

Through her involvement as both a program participant and volunteer, Taylor says that Girls Inc. has helped her become more self-confident and outgoing. Taylor has exhibited her leadership skills through her role as a peer mentor at Girls Inc. Her participation introduced her to Girls Can Do Anything, a Canadian magazine for tween girls, where she has served as a contributing writer, advisory committee member, and art director. Inspired by her involvement with the magazine, Taylor’s career goal is to become as an art director for a magazine publication, appealing to her creativity and passion for design.

Wiselene Dorceus
Girls Incorporated of Lynn   
Grade: 12

“The exposure to career exploration and goal setting that Girls Inc. provided to me helped me to realize that social norms are barriers that can be surpassed.”

Through her participation as a Peer Leader for the Girls Inc. of Lynn substance abuse prevention program, La Verdad, Wiselene gained new leadership skills, made new friends, and became even more aware of problems within her community. Her experience attending the Girls Inc. Corporate CampSM for Entrepreneurs gave her an opportunity to develop further her networking and public speaking skills. Wiselene plans to pursue a college degree in business administration or marketing and rise above stereotypes, succeed in a male-dominated field, and become a high-level corporate executive.

Markesha Dunham
Girls Incorporated of Chattanooga   
Grade: 12

“As a result of all of the Girls Inc. programs that encouraged me to be more outgoing, my life is infinitely better than it would have been.”

Markesha has participated in nearly every Girls Inc. program offered since joining six years ago, including serving on her local Board of Directors. Markesha’s years of leadership training and community service in Girls Inc. led her to seek other opportunities, such as involvement in Model United Nations and the Infant Mortality Public Awareness Campaign for Tennessee (IMPACT), through which she spoke to legislators at the state level and federal level. Her passion for helping women and infants has led to her career goal of becoming an obstetrician/gynecologist. Thanks to her involvement with Girls Inc., Markesha shares, “not only am I more free thinking and opinionated, but I strive to be strong, smart, and bold in everything I do.”

Nayeli Gallardo
Girls Incorporated of the Central Coast   
Grade: 12

“When I joined Will Power/Won’t Power ®, I learned the importance of taking care of my body and making smart decisions.”

After several years of participation, Nayeli joined a Girls Inc. of the Central Coast leadership program called ECHO (Education, Careers, Health, and Opportunities), where she learned about health, state policy, careers, public speaking, and higher education. Although she is still exploring several career options, Nayeli is very interested in the field of journalism to pursue her passion of informing and educating others. Nayeli shares that she would not have the self-confidence to accomplish her educational and career goals if she did not acknowledge her right to accept and appreciate her body. “I need to feel comfortable in my own body in order to enjoy doing what my mind and soul inspire me to do.”

Nitsihty Gebremedhin
Girls Incorporated of Metro Denver   
Grade: 12

“I think differently now because of Girls Inc.; I don’t doubt myself any longer, I have big dreams, and I know that I can achieve them.”

Nitsihty emigrated from Ethiopia at age nine and, within five months, learned to speak perfect English. This sense of determination has helped her excel in many areas. Through her Girls Inc. participation, Nitsihty has learned a lot about herself, her abilities, and her goals. She loves helping others and believes that quality health care is a human right. Her goal is to become a doctor and join Doctors Without Borders to donate her time and skills in developing countries. Reflecting on her Girls Inc. experience, she says, “the staff at Girls Inc. have inspired me to work hard and not let any obstacles get in my way because I CAN do it!”

Caroline Henley
Girls Incorporated of Columbus & Phenix-Russell 
Grade: 11

“My first summer volunteering at Girls Inc., I completed 280 hours. My second summer, 400 hours.”

Caroline has a passion for giving back to Girls Inc. and serving as a role model for other girls. When she first got involved with Girls Inc., she was quiet and introverted. After hesitantly joining their summer theatre program, she began growing, exploring, and refining her many talents and leadership skills. Today Caroline actively shares her interests and abilities. She acts, sings, plays several instruments, excels in science and art, and is a skilled shooter for her school’s rifle team. She is looking forward to college to help her focus her interests through further education and career exploration.

Melissa Miranda
Girls Incorporated of Orange County   
Grade: 11

“At Girls Inc., I learned that I am just as capable as a man to have a career and I should make the same amount of money he does for the same job.”

Through participation in Taking Care of Business ®, Will Power/Won’t Power ®, and the Girls Inc. of Orange County College Bound program, Melissa developed her self-confidence and learned to value herself as a woman. She used the lessons she learned at Girls Inc. to help her parents address issues of gender stereotypes within her family. Melissa has successfully overcome a reading disability to complete numerous Honors and Advanced Placement classes. She loves the logic and order of math, and her goal is to become an accountant and one day open her own accounting firm.

Alexis Morales 
Girls Incorporated of the Central Coast   
Grade: 11

“If it wasn’t for the comfort, understanding, and education that Girls Inc. has offered me, I would truly be someone else.”

Alexis joined Girls Inc. in the seventh grade as a shy and self-conscious girl. Thanks to the support of the staff and her participation in various programs, she is now outgoing, confident, and optimistic. Along with her Girls Inc. participation, she has also grown and matured through activities such as art classes and involvement at her church. Alexis hopes to pursue a field that deals with social work and plans to become a psychologist. She has always considered Girls Inc. to be her second family, saying, “I honestly have to thank my Girls Inc. facilitators for opening my eyes to the opportunities that surround me.”

Shannon Mullane 
Girls Incorporated of Oak Ridge   
Grade: 12

“I am dedicated to the Girls Inc. vision, and I want to incorporate its mission in my own life.”

Shannon began attending Girls Inc. sports programs during the second grade and soon became an active participant and volunteer. Her volunteer roles at Girls Inc., as well as other community organizations have inspired her to join the Peace Corps after college. After the Peace Corps, Shannon plans to pursue a career in photojournalism and highlight the stories of those less fortunate than her and those in need of help. Through her community and professional roles, Shannon’s future objectives include travelling, learning about different cultures, and sharing her knowledge and experiences with others.

Jordan Pearson 
Girls Incorporated of Jackson County   
Grade: 12

“I have benefited more from Girls Inc. than any other program or organization with which I am involved.”

Jordan has been involved with Girls Inc. for twelve years as a member, volunteer, and employee. A hard-working, self-confident individual, she has improved her leadership skills and strength through being active in Girls Inc., a variety of school organizations, her church, and sports programs. Despite her busy schedule, Jordan continues to visit Girls Inc. whenever possible to attend programs or help younger girls with an activity. While still undecided as to her career plans, she hopes to work directly serving people in a hospital or similar environment.

Lise Wagnac 
Girls Incorporated of Lynn   
Grade: 12

“What I found at Girls Inc. of Lynn was not only inspiration, but also a family.”

Through her participation in the Girls Inc. of Lynn substance abuse program, La Verdad, Lise was introduced to peer leadership, constructive decision-making, and effective speaking skills. This and other Girls Inc. programs opened her eyes to a newfound desire to learn and an interest in youth activism. As a member of the her city’s Youth City Council, Lise works with other teens and adults to help reduce gang violence and youth substance abuse in their communities through park cleanups, sports tournaments, and dances. After high school, Lise plans to pursue a career as either a pediatrician or a biomedical engineer.

Verizon Foundation Scholarship Program - $2,500 Awards

Christine Singleton
Girls Incorporated of the Greater Peninsula  
Grade: 12

“Even though I set my goals high, I believe I can achieve them because of the encouragement and knowledge gained through my experience at Girls Inc.”

Christine has been both an active participant and volunteer at Girls Inc. Although she was initially apprehensive about mentoring a group of girls she saw as loud and hyper, Christine soon discovered skills to help them learn from the daily activities and earn their respect. She learned to be open to new ideas and not make quick conclusions or impressions about others. As an avid player of video games, Christine’s career goal is to enter the field of computer animation and work for a large movie or video game animation studio. She realizes that this field is dominated by men, but she feels that she has the determination to succeed because of Girls Inc.

VaShonda Tanzie
Girls Incorporated of Columbus & Phenix-Russell 
Grade: 11

“Girls Inc. provides a place where young ladies can come and feel good about who they are and inspire others to become a part of something positive.”

Through her participation in sports and other activities at Girls Inc., VaShonda discovered a passion for helping others and learned to appreciate the diversity of her own community, respect other individuals, and serve as a positive role model. VaShonda’s goals include obtaining a degree in engineering and becoming a computer design engineer. This field excites her because it remains in the emerging stages and offers a life-long career of opportunities. By exercising her right to be herself and resisting gender stereotypes, VaShonda feels confident that she can succeed in a traditional male industry. “I want to be the one that shows the world that all things are possible, even in a field not popular to women,” she says.

Kermisha Tate
Girls Incorporated of Chattanooga    
Grade: 11

“Girls Inc. taught me to be a strong woman through my character, my speech, and my action.”

Kermisha joined Girls Inc. of Chattanooga to participate in the Safe in My World teen leadership program. She quickly increased her involvement to participate in the Infant Mortality Public Awareness Campaign, where she learned about public speaking and advocacy and created radio and television public service announcements. Kermisha plans to pursue a degree in computer science, with a minor in graphic design. Her goal is to obtain an MBA and start her own graphic design company, where she will specialize in working with non-profit organizations. By extending job opportunities to women, Kermisha hopes to provide to other women with the same sense of importance and leadership that Girls Inc. programs provided to her.

Alexis Williams
Girls Incorporated of Memphis    
Grade: 11

“Through my experiences with Girls Inc., I have been given the opportunity to be a positive role model to other young ladies.”

Alexis credits her involvement in Girls Inc. programs with strengthening her self-confidence, resolve to achieve her goals, and pride in her accomplishments. When she first decided to join her school’s dance team, she was nervous about performing in front of a large audience. Alexis remembered the Girls Inc. Girls’ Bill of RightsSM and overcame her fear to excel on the team. She plans to take this knowledge and self-confidence with her to college, where she wants to double major in computer engineering and business. She hopes someday to become a computer engineer and own her own business.