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The Good Paid Forward Scholarship was formed by Claflin Alumna and Cosmopolitan Creative Group Owner, Marshaé Smith, with the motivation of paying it forward to students currently attending her Alma Mater.
The application questions focus on the importance of HBCUs, visionary leadership, spreading acts of kindness and more. In addition to providing financial assistance, Ms. Smith is committed to remaining connected to the Good Paid Forward Scholars to provide ongoing mentorship throughout their college matriculation, just as her mentors did for her.
Lastly, unlike most scholarships, we made a conscious decision to have a lower than usual minimum GPA requirement because, while we do believe in rewarding those who work hard to maintain a high GPA, we also believe in the value of giving second chances and support to those who may have had a less than desirable semester in the past.
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past scholars
PennShelia Griffin
2021 LIFE AND CAREER UPDATE
I graduated early from Claflin University as the Fall 2019 Valedictorian with Magna Cum Laude honors. Since then, I have secured two employment opportunities with NHC Healthcare's Rehabilitation Unit working with Physical Therapy Patients – as well as 3 internships across North and South Carolina.
I am currently in the process of applying and waiting for acceptances into medical school for my Physical Therapy Doctoral program and I've so far completed 5 health-related courses that will count towards my degree. Outside of school and work, I started and own “HandmadebyPenny” where I provide quality handmade and custom products ranging from custom picture pillows, birthday/wedding sashes, custom shirts, handmade bathing suits, custom wine glasses/cups, photo canvas, baby accessories and more! It has been amazing watching my business flourish.
I am also traveling the world, seeking more internships and thanking God in the process of it all. I truly thank The Good Paid Forward Scholarship for having a hand in my success!
Stephon Clunis
2021 LIFE AND CAREER UPDATE
After receiving the Good Paid Forward scholarship, I graduated with a double major in Criminal Justice and Psychology and became the Spring Valedictorian of my class in May 2019. I immediately went on to the University of New Haven located in West Haven, Connecticut to pursue my masters degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. Here I was offered the provost scholarship and a graduate assistantship. I will graduate in August 2021, so at the moment, I am finishing up my masters and working as an intern at Indium Corporation located in Utica, NY.
The Good Paid Forward scholarship not only helped to alleviate my college expenses, but it was also a source of motivation. Throughout college I applied for numerous scholarships, and the only message I would ever receive was "Thank You for applying...". Receiving a "Congratulations!" email from The Good Paid Forward scholarship was a heartwarming and encouraging moment that propelled me forward and provided the funding needed to finish school. Because of this scholarship, I was able to live out my dream of becoming Valedictorian and I made it a priority to give a shoutout to Marshae and her company during my speech.
"If you're lucky enough to do well, it's your responsibility to send the elevator back down."
2018-2019 DONOR LIST
COSMOPOLITAN LEVEL DONORS:
($100 and Up)
Jerame Smalls
SILVER LEVEL DONORS:
($21-$49)
Cellipha Joseph
Malahah Waller
Amari Battiste
Kiana Williams
Portia Bosco
Isha Conteh
Jasmine Parsons
Quinton Wallace
Camblyss Pinckney
Matisse Lee
Brianna Worley
Tracey Lee Dimsoy
Dae’Keria Stewart
Jazmine Diggs
Coach Latisha Luckett
Brianna Polite
Kadejah Johnson
Crystal Brooks
Chymaine Guinyard
BRONZE LEVEL DONORS:
($20 and Below)
Kimberly Elliot
Sierra Williams
Jordan Barnes
Taylor Willis
Broderick Williams
Valencia Perry
Amber Nelson
Xania Jackson
Brandi McFadden
Anisha Shaw
Cami McLaughlin
Lanice Kibler
Amber Nelson
GOLD LEVEL DONORS:
($50-$99)
Roshamod Torrance
April Frasier
Alexia Parnell
Brianna Smith
