Charleston Family Trust Scholarship

The Charleston Family Trust Scholarship was established in memory of Thomas and Lulu Charleston, as a tribute to their value of education, honesty, hard work and self reliance. Both born and raised in the segregated South, the couple struggled financially to pursue higher education and a better life for their family.

Mr. Charleston was a lifetime member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), supporter of Southern Poverty Law Center, The United Negro College Fund, and had a long and extensive career with the Department of Corrections in California retiring as Assistant Warden at Folsom State Prison.

The Charleston's hard work and perseverance has given way for them to leave a part of their legacy to those who would otherwise be unable to pursue an education, because they believed that, 'An education is paramount in ones journey through life.' Their hope was to enrich the lives of those who receive this gift so that in turn, the recipient can do the same for the next generation.

Applicants must meet all of the eligibility requirements and deadline to qualify as we search to make (3) awards of up to $3,000 based upon a students unmet financial need.

For full consideration, students must:

A) Be African American and legal residents of the United States;

B) Have a cumulative grade point average of a 2.5 on a 4.0 scale and submit a uploaded official or unofficial current college academic transcript which demonstrates this GPA.

C) Have completed a FAFSA and demonstrate a financial need based upon the review of a Financial Aid office official;

D) Be enrolled currently as a full-time Undergraduate college student at any 4-year accredited institution. Note** High school seniors are INELIGIBLE to apply for this scholarship, it is ONLY for current full time enrolled undergraduate students;

E) Complete an online application