AKRON, Ohio — Editor's note: Video at the top of this story was originally published Oct. 7, 2020.
Students who graduate from the I PROMISE program have the opportunity to get some additional financial assistance if they plan on attending the University of Akron.
UA introduced a new scholarship program Monday for I PROMISE graduates that will give five first-time, full-time students housing and meals for up to four years of study. The scholarships are valued at more than $13,000 per year.
“The full room and board scholarship is in addition to the free tuition and general fees that all qualifying I PROMISE students receive from UA as part of the agreement made in 2015 with the LeBron James Family Foundation,” officials said.
RELATED: Watch: LeBron James surprised by students from Akron's I Promise School during Lakers' ring ceremony
This comes along with the free tuition and general fees that all qualifying I PROMISE students get from UA as part of a 2015 agreement with the LeBron James Family Foundation.
“In addition to room and board, the Zips Promise Scholarships will grant students opportunities for mentorship and the ability to secure on-campus employment for up to 15 hours per week during the active term. I PROMISE students must apply for the scholarship, demonstrating their ability to achieve in challenging environments, sharing strategies allowing for their success and explaining how the experience can be applied to their studies at UA.”
To maintain their scholarship eligibility, UA said students must earn a 2.25 cumulative grade point average at completion of 30 earned credits, participate in programs and mentorship opportunities and keep good disciplinary standing.
“The University of Akron is committed to educational opportunity for all students and we are excited to mark the occasion of the first I PROMISE graduating class with the Zips Promise Scholarship,” said UA President Gary L. Miller. ”We value our partnership with the LeBron James Family Foundation and want to deepen our commitment to ensuring these students have all of the wrap around support needed to succeed in college.”
The I PROMISE School, which opened in 2018, is part of the Akron Public School District. Some of the school’s students were featured on a Wheaties box last year alongside LeBron James.
MORE HEADLINES: