Transforming Lives Through Education & Literacy
The CDJLS was established by Cornelius D. Jones in 2024. As a strong proponent of higher education and literacy, he created a scholarship to promote the two. As an accomplished author and recipient of the James Weldon Johnson Prestigious Literacy Award, he founded a scholarship for students in underrepresented ethnic groups to attend HBCUs. His vision is to encourage students to open their minds by opening books to help them reach their full potential.
Eligibility
Open to high school graduating seniors in the class of 2025 who are admitted or enrolled in an accredited four-year historically black college or university. This scholarship is only open to legal residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and any US Territory with a minimum grade point average (G.P.A.) of 3.0./4.0. Full eligibility requirements are listed below:
1. Three letters of reference must be submitted, one from an academic reference attesting to the applicant's character, leadership, and scholastic ability.
2. Official Academic transcript from high school; students must seek a bachelor's degree from an accredited HBCU institution as full-time students.
3. A 1,000-word essay in APA format guidelines on "What is the importance of higher education?"
4. A completed application form.
5. A student currently enrolled as a high school senior who intends to enroll in an accredited college or university in the United States within a year of graduating high school (“Entrant”).
* All applications submitted past the current deadline up till 11:59 PM ET will be considered for the next deadline. All required documents MUST be scanned and emailed to: info@corneliusdjones-scholarship.com
This Literacy Scholarship assists outstanding high school graduates on their college educational journey. This is accomplished by offering financial assistance as we strive to change lives through literacy and education, fostering a love for reading to motivate others to learn. Students must be majoring in a literature-related discipline or education to apply. A preference will be given to students who promote literacy in their communities. All races and genders are highly encouraged to apply. In your application, write about the challenges you’ve overcome in your life and how this scholarship will help you achieve your future goals.
Scholarship Support
Financial Aid
The CDJLS provides financial support to exceptional graduating high school seniors, helping them pursue their educational goals. We award $1,500 scholarships to one male and one female student annually. Eligible students must pursue a degree in English, Creative Writing, Journalism, or Education.
Literacy Programs
We promote literacy through various programs, encouraging students to develop a love for reading.
Community Outreach
Our scholarship extends beyond financial support, as we actively engage with the community to promote education and literacy.
Mentoring
We offer mentoring programs to guide and support students throughout their educational journey.
Applications are accepted from September 1st to April 30th. Selected Awards will be disbursed directly to the institution of higher education on or before August 1st.
Cornelius D. Jones, PhD
