ATHENS, Ohio — After North Central University President Scott Hagen asked universities nationwide to consider creating a scholarship in honor of George Floyd during Thursday's memorial service, one Ohio institution has already responded to the call.
RELATED: 'You changed the world George': Floyd's memorial service in Minneapolis marked by calls to action
On Friday, Ohio University and The Ohio University Foundation announced that they have established the George Floyd Memorial Scholarship Fund.
“As leaders across our nation call for change with regard to senseless acts that have plagued our African American community for centuries, we, too, at Ohio University are committed to taking actionable measures to help influence racial injustice reforms,” Ohio University President M. Duane Nellis said. “By establishing the George Floyd Memorial Scholarship Fund at Ohio University, we are creating positive measures that will impact the lives of current and future student leaders working with an interest in civic responsibility and social justice to help them achieve their academic goals.”
The George Floyd Memorial Scholarship Fund will be available for student leaders who demonstrate leadership through multicultural student organizations and diversity initiatives at Ohio University or who have a history of inclusion and diversity-related leadership in their high schools or communities.
Incoming and current students are eligible, and the fund will be administered by the Division for Diversity and Inclusion.
'This scholarship program that we have created is just one way that we can take a stand against racism,” Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion Gigi Secuban said. “Ohio University is committed to diversity and inclusion, and we stand strong in solidarity with our community members of color, especially African American community members.”
The George Floyd Memorial Scholarship Fund at Ohio University has already received contributions from members of the university community.
Anyone who wishes to make a gift in support of the George Floyd Memorial Scholarship Fund can do so by clicking here.