In an effort to bolster educational and vocational opportunities for its residents, Williamsburg Houses, an affordable housing development located in Brooklyn, is now accepting applications for its scholarship program, the Inspired Path Forward Scholarship. Now in its second year, the scholarship is worth $5,000 and is exclusive to residents. The award winnings can be used for a wide range of education-related expenses, including tuition, books, room and board, school supplies, and more.
Starting in the ninth grade, students can apply for the scholarship, with the $5,000 being awarded upon graduation. Students have the option to reapply each year and accumulate funds until graduation. The scholarship program’s early eligibility enables students to start planning for their educational future and motivates them to finish high school. This forward-thinking approach encourages students to set ambitious academic and career goals. Nontraditional students who have graduated high school or completed their GED are also encouraged to apply, especially those interested in trade schools and vocational programs. As of February 19, the application window is open, with the deadline set for April 22.
Exclusive to Williamsburg Houses residents: the award winnings can be used for a wide range of education-related expenses, including tuition, books, room and board, school supplies, and more.
The scholarship is being funded by RDC Development, a professional partnership between MDG Design + Construction and Wavecrest Management, the developer and manager of Williamsburg Houses, respectively. As a major rehabilitation project is ongoing at Williamsburg Houses through NYCHA’s PACT program, RDC Development, in collaboration with its onsite social service provider, St. Nicks Alliance, has taken meaningful steps to improve the quality of life for residents during the renovation process. This scholarship is an extension of RDC Development’s commitment to supporting the community.
The scholarship program, introduced last year, selected its first cohort of winners, who represent a wide range of ages and are studying a variety of disciplines at schools across the city and state. This year, Williamsburg Houses is hoping to expand the number of winners to maximize its impact on the community.
“We believe that investing in education is crucial for the development of the community,” said Susan Camerata, chief financial officer at Wavecrest Management and principal for RDC Development. “We hope that the scholarship provides our residents with the financial support they need to pursue higher education or vocational training and build a brighter future.”
One important factor that makes the Inspired Path Forward Scholarship unique is its inclusivity of nontraditional students. With the knowledge that many of the Williamsburg Houses residents may not have had the opportunity to pursue higher education directly after high school, the scholarship hopes to support individuals interested in trade schools and vocational programs, acknowledging the importance of diverse career paths.
As of February 19, the application window is open, with the deadline set for April 22.
“We want to ensure that all deserving individuals within our community have an equal opportunity to access higher education or vocational training,” said Matthew Rooney, chief executive officer of MDG Design + Construction. “By providing financial assistance through this scholarship program, we are breaking down barriers and empowering our residents to achieve their academic and career goals.”
Williamsburg Houses urges eligible students to submit their applications before the April 22 deadline. Detailed information and application forms can be obtained from the Williamsburg Houses management office or through the scholarship’s official website: https://learnmore.scholarsapply.org/inspired/
By investing in the education of its residents, Williamsburg Houses takes pride in its role to shape their futures. As the scholarship program enters its second year, the development remains dedicated to creating pathways for success, fostering a more educated, skilled, and vibrant community for generations to come.
The Greenline 