At SchoolHouse Connection, one of our guiding principles is that young people are the experts on their experiences, needs, and strengths. We also recognize that students experiencing homelessness often face barriers in accessing higher education. Our Youth Leadership and Scholarship Program is a competitive national scholarship program that provides 10 scholarships each year to students who have experienced homelessness, to ensure their access to and completion of a post-secondary education program. Through this program, students are provided with a $2,500 scholarship; assistance in accessing resources such as financial aid, mental health, and legal advocacy; a strong, stable peer and adult support network; and opportunities to engage in meaningful advocacy. Our overall goal for the Youth Leadership and Scholarship Program is to provide sustained support to see students to and through college and into the workforce.

It is our pleasure to announce the 2023 SchoolHouse Connection Scholarship Class:

• Jessica, SC
• Cole, KY
• CJ, WA
• Brenia, IL
• Kaylin, GA
• Te’yana, CA
• Kiki, ME
• Shyann, AL
• Harper, UT
• Robert, NY

Meet SHC’s 2023 Scholars

Name: Jessica
State: South Carolina
Anticipated Major: Marine Science

“Receiving this scholarship lifts a burden that has significantly impacted my education. It provides support that I’ve lacked and has gifted me the opportunity to meet an inspiring group of people. SHC has given me a chance to pursue my higher education with its guidance and mentorship. It isn’t just about the scholarship, but the people you interact with and who remain present for you until college graduation.”

Name: Cole
State: Kentucky
Anticipated Major: Computer Science

“It means a lot to me because I feel like I can finally be recognized for my hard work and make life a little bit easier for me. The relief and excitement overwhelms me thinking how much help I am going to get and I won’t have to depend on myself as much.”

Name: CJ
State: Washington
Anticipated Major: Criminal Psychology

“I am so thankful to have received this scholarship. Just last year, college didn’t even seem like it would be an option for me. The support that SHC is providing me is so appreciated. I am confident that I will be able to pursue higher education and have the help that I need in order to reach my goal. I am excited to see how successful I can become despite the obstacles that I’ve faced.”

Name: Brenia
State: Illinois
Anticipated Major: Mathematics Education

“I’m excited about the opportunity for a bright future and a better education.”

Name: Kaylin
State: Georgia
Anticipated Major: Biochemistry

“This scholarship allows me to have my story heard and gives me the chance to pursue my education with support, both financially and emotionally.”

Name: Te’yana
State: California
Anticipated Major: Software Engineering and Business

“This scholarship is an acknowledgement that all my hard work and perseverance has paid off. It has provided me with the tools I need to be the first in my family to pursue a higher education. I am glad to be a part of such a supportive community, with never-ending encouragement. I never would have imagined I would be given this opportunity. Thank you SHC, for welcoming me into such an amazing community.”

Name: Kiki
State: Maine
Anticipated Major: Social Work

“This scholarship is a perfect demonstration that resiliency pays off. Not only does the SHC team do their absolute best in helping you, but they help show you how important your story really is. This scholarship is such a blessing!”

Name: Shyann
State: Alabama
Anticipated Major: Elementary Education

“I am very honored and thankful to receive this scholarship! I cannot wait to meet everyone and make new friends!”

Name: Harper
State: Utah
Anticipated Major: Chinese and English

“I have no family. I had no support for college – I was worried that I wouldn’t even be able to go. SHC has already promised me the support I need to graduate college. SHC gives me a chance at changing the world I live in. SHC gives me a chance to break generational cycles of poverty and abuse.”

Name: Robert
State: New York
Anticipated Major: Accounting

“Putting in the hard work now so I can live life like no one else has before.”