Published:

Tags: Scholarship , Student Funding

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:
Sonji Joyner
Prince George’s Community College
joynersr@pgcc.edu

Prince George’s Community College Students Among Semifinalists for Highly-Selective Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarships

PGCC Students at Commencement

LARGO, Md. (March 2, 2022) – Three Prince George's Community College (PGCC) students are among the semifinalists for the highly-competitive Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarships, which provide top community college students with generous financial support to complete their bachelor's degree at a selective four-year college or university. The PGCC semifinalists are Jude Ekeocha, Anthony Nelson, and Jessica Rangel.

"This is exciting, affirming, and potentially life-changing news for Jude, Anthony, and Jessica, and we are extremely proud of them for being selected as semifinalists," said Clayton A. Railey, Ph.D., executive vice president and provost of the College's Teaching, Learning, and Student Success. "All three are exceptional students and deserving of the expanded opportunities and support offered to Jack Kent Cooke Scholars who can broaden plans for reach schools and careers."

Finalists, to be announced in early May, will be selected based on high academic ability and achievement, financial need, determination and persistence in the face of challenges, leadership abilities, and service to others.

"The past year has been particularly difficult as students continued to navigate the complexities of hybrid learning, the demands of family care, and disrupted work schedules," said Seppy Basili, executive director of the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation. "We are so proud of these semifinalists for their perseverance and achievements at their community colleges."

Jack Kent Cooke Scholars receive up to $55,000 a year to attend a selective four-year accredited undergraduate school, and they may pursue any area of study. They also receive comprehensive educational advising from the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation about the process of choosing and transitioning to a four-year college, navigating financial aid, preparing for a career, and maximizing the student experience. They also receive opportunities for internships, study abroad, and graduate school funding, as well as a connection to a thriving network of approximately 3,000 fellow Cooke Scholars and alumni.

This year's 440 semifinalists were selected from a pool of 1,200 outstanding applicants attending 180 community colleges in 35 states. The number of scholarships varies from year to year. In May 2021, 72 Undergraduate Transfer Scholarships were awarded by the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation.

About Prince George’s Community College

Named a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance designated by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security (2015-2020), Prince George’s Community College (PGCC) provides high-quality education and training for the progressive and career-oriented residents of Prince George’s County. From new high school graduates and career seekers to more seasoned professionals and senior citizens looking to enhance their skillsets, PGCC is comprised of students who represent a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and goals. Serving nearly 35,000 individuals annually, the College is the first choice for higher education for residents of Prince George’s County. Collaborative partnerships, responsive degree and training programs, and a commitment to student success enables PGCC to address diverse education and workforce development demands.

For more information, visit the college website at www.pgcc.edu. Prince George’s Community College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, 3624 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104; (267-284-5000); www.msche.org. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. 

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