Empowering Futures: Buffalo (NY) Links Chapter Awards Over $14,000 in Scholarships
In a continued commitment to excellence in education, the Buffalo (NY) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, proudly awarded more than $14,000 in scholarships this past spring under the leadership of President Ms. Geraldine Horton. These awards celebrated the achievements of graduating high school seniors, current college students, and a post-baccalaureate scholar, helping them pursue higher education and advanced studies.
At the heart of this year’s awards were three distinguished memorial scholarships, each honoring a legacy of inspiration and achievement:
Joan E. Sutton Memorial Scholarship
James & Vernette Patterson Engineering Scholarship
Brian M. Harper Memorial Scholarship
The Links, Incorporated, established in 1946, is an international, nonprofit organization comprising over 17,000 accomplished women of African descent. With 299 chapters spanning 41 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, and the United Kingdom, the organization fosters cultural, civic, and educational advancement.
Through its scholarship programs, The Links, Incorporated has provided over $1 million in financial support to more than 1,000 exceptional students who have demonstrated academic excellence and a commitment to their communities. This legacy of service and investment continues to transform lives and empower future leaders.
2024 Scholarship Recipients
High School Scholars
The following outstanding students were awarded scholarships for their academic achievements, leadership, and potential:
Donald Pettiway, III – City Honors School at FMP
NaiChelle Lipscomb – Middle Early College High School
Jonathan Douglass – Cheektowaga Central High School
Alicia Reid – Sweet Home High School
Julius Maurice – Williamsville North High School
Kellen Palmer – Canisius High School
Keaira Loren Burt – Frederick Law Olmsted School
Jamea Edwards – Hutchinson Central Technical High School
Zigabor Banuna – Hutchinson Central Technical High School
Distinguished Memorial Scholarship Recipients
In addition to the general scholarships, three exceptional students were honored with prestigious awards for their dedication to excellence in specific fields of study:
Brian M. Harper Memorial Scholarship for Study at Cornell University: Samantha A. Ivey
James & Vernette Patterson Engineering Scholarship: Angelina Myles
Joan E. Sutton Memorial Scholarship for Advanced Study or Community Project: Ruqayyah Bint-Farid Batts
Transforming Dreams into Reality
The Buffalo (NY) Chapter’s scholarship program stands as a beacon of opportunity, recognizing and supporting the brilliance of our youth. By offering financial support and encouragement, the chapter is helping to cultivate the next generation of innovators, leaders, and changemakers.
This year’s recipients exemplify academic excellence, resilience, and a commitment to making a difference in their communities. These scholarships are more than awards; they are an investment in a brighter, more equitable future for all.