Shelby County Invests in Futures: Celebrating Daughters of Zion’s First Commissioner’s Scholarship Graduates
By: Staff, Oct 15, 2024
Shelby County, TN — On September 24, 2024, Daughters of Zion celebrated a landmark event: the graduation of the first cohort of Certified Nursing Assistants who were recipients of the Commissioner’s Scholarship. This scholarship, generously funded by the Shelby County Commissioners, the legislative body of Shelby County Government, represents a significant commitment to empowering local individuals through education.
This special scholarship, named the Commissioner’s Scholarship by Daughters of Zion, is designed to support students who might not otherwise have the opportunity to pursue healthcare training due to financial constraints.
The Commissioner’s Scholarship stands out not only for its financial support and tutoring support but also for its inclusivity, removing all barriers that often hinder individuals from pursuing higher education and training. Unlike many programs that adhere strictly to the State of Tennessee’s Family First criteria, which can exclude many potential participants, the Commissioner’s Scholarship is accessible to any resident of Shelby County. This inclusivity is crucial as Daughters of Zion has hundreds of potential participants on its waiting list—many of whom did not qualify under the state criteria but can now enroll thanks to this scholarship. This initiative ensures that every resident, regardless of their background or financial situation, has the opportunity to improve their livelihood through education, embodying the true spirit of community support and empowerment.
The graduation ceremony was not just a celebration of personal achievement but also a demonstration of the community’s investment in its own future. Graduates, including Morgan Harris, Tiffany Golden Lester, and Takeiya Grayer, each echoed sentiments of gratitude and determination. They all passed their state exams, further validating the success of the program and the efficacy of the Commissioner’s Scholarship in changing lives.
The event underscored Daughters of Zion’s role as a transformative force within Shelby County, showcasing how targeted financial support through initiatives like the Commissioner’s Scholarship can lead to substantial community uplift. This first graduating class of scholarship recipients marks the beginning of what promises to be a robust pipeline of skilled, compassionate healthcare professionals nurtured right within the community.
As Daughters of Zion looks to the future, they invite others in Shelby County to join the next cohort at William & Johnson Career College’s CNA program. This initiative not only educates but also builds a community of professionals who are ready to serve and uplift their surroundings.
For those ready to take the first step towards a promising future in healthcare, enrollment is now open. Interested individuals can contact 901-570-3220 to learn more about the program and how the Commissioner’s Scholarship can make a significant difference in their lives and the well-being of Shelby County.
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