The city government of Washington, D.C., has established the Mayor’s Scholars Fund that will provide need-based financial aid for college for District residents. The fund will provide assistance to District residents attending colleges or universities in the District. Students in good academic and disciplinary standing will be eligible for up to $3,000 for community college, $7,000 at the University of the District of Columbia, and $10,000 at a private college or university in the District.
Vincent C. Gray, mayor of Washington, stated, “One of the goals is ensuring that all of our residents have access to a quality education, and today’s announcement means it will be easier for many District students to obtain a university or community college degree. It’s a wise investment in our students, our workforce and our city’s future.”
The new program will undoubtedly benefit many African American students. Blacks make up a majority of the city’s population.