Applications are now open for the Inspired Path Forward Scholarship, exclusively for residents of Williamsburg Houses
In 2023, the development team—RDC Development, a joint venture between Wavecrest Management and MDG Design & Construction—behind the renovated Williamsburg Houses in Brooklyn launched the Inspired Path Forward Scholarship to expand educational and vocational opportunities for residents. Over the past three years, 31 residents have received $5,000 to further their education.
Each year, up to 15 students receive $5,000 to support their studies, with eligibility open exclusively to Williamsburg Houses residents of all ages pursuing secondary education—including students seeking to earn a graduate degree. Award funds can be applied to a wide range of education-related expenses, including tuition, books, room and board, school supplies, and more. As of February 3, the 2026 scholarship is now open! Residents are encouraged to apply before the April 22 deadline here: https://learnmore.scholarsapply.org/inspired/.
“I’m now able to afford my rent and devote my time fully to my studies, which is a blessing if people understand working and going to school. [It] was very hard my last time—I took four classes and worked a 9 to 5—it was brutal. Now, I’m able to throw myself in my studies [and] possibly join a research team so I can possibly apply for my PhD,” said Jennifer, Williamsburg Houses Resident and 2025 Inspired Path Forward Scholarship Recipient. “This is the reason why scholarships are helpful because everyone knows, school is expensive.”
Jennifer’s daughter was also a 2025 scholarship recipient, and she is now attending the University of Pittsburg (Pitt).
“I would say that I was fortunate enough. I am very thankful, because it helps a lot, especially with my first year of college. I’m definitely grateful for that,” said Araya, Williamsburg Houses Resident and 2024 Inspired Path Forward Scholarship Recipient. “Thank you for giving me a chance because I definitely needed some sort of miracle.”
Students can begin applying for the scholarship as early as ninth grade, with the $5,000 award distributed upon high school graduation. Eligible students may reapply each year, allowing them to build their total scholarship amount over time. By opening the application window early, the program helps students plan ahead, stay motivated, and remain focused on completing high school. This forward-looking model encourages young people to set ambitious academic and career goals.
“The scholarship allows me to just go about my academics in a stress-free way, where I don’t have to worry about not paying my bills on time,” said Elliott, Williamsburg Houses Resident and a 2024 and 2025 Inspired Path Forward Scholarship Recipient. “When I called my mom, she started crying. It’s going to be very helpful. It was really exciting when I got it, like I couldn’t even believe it.”
The scholarship also welcomes nontraditional students who have already graduated or earned a GED, particularly individuals pursuing trade schools or vocational programs as they prepare for a new career path. Recognizing that many residents may not have had the chance to pursue higher education immediately after high school, the program intentionally encourages applicants interested in trade schools and vocational pathways, affirming the value of diverse career paths.
“Thank you so much, not just for the scholarship itself, but [for] its flexibility. I love that we’re trying to reach everyone regardless of who they are, where they are in their lives, or what their aspirations are,” said Brianny, Williamsburg Houses Resident and a 2023 and 2024 Inspired Path Forward Scholarship Recipient.
The scholarship is funded by RDC Development—a professional partnership between MDG Design & Construction, the developer, and Wavecrest Management, the property manager of Williamsburg Houses. Working closely with dedicated partners at St. Nicks Alliance, the team has taken meaningful steps to enhance residents’ quality of life throughout the renovation process and into the future. The scholarship represents a continued extension of RDC’s long-term commitment to supporting and investing in the Williamsburg Houses community.
“Now, I’m able to go to school full time, be a licensed psychologist, and give back to my community; and just improve life around me. I wouldn’t’ve been able to do that if I had to go to school and work; it wouldn’t have been the same. So, I say thank you so much for helping me help myself,” added Jennifer. “It doesn’t matter where you came from, it matters how you finish.”
By investing in the education of its residents, Williamsburg Houses takes pride in helping to shape brighter futures. As the scholarship program enters its fourth year, the team remains committed to expanding pathways to opportunity and fostering a more educated, skilled, and vibrant community for generations to come.
The deadline to apply is April 22. Detailed information and application forms can be obtained from the St. Nicks Alliance office at 244 Graham Avenue, the Williamsburg Houses management office at 176 Maujer Street, or the scholarship’s official website: https://learnmore.scholarsapply.org/inspired/.
Make sure to check out the free coffee and donuts scholarship workshop on Saturday, March 7, from 9:00am-1:00pm at the St. Nicks Alliance office, and keep an eye out for another event in early April.
The Greenline 