Meet the award recipients of the Phil Bennett Memorial Scholarship for the 2023-24 school year.
10/30/2023 11:30 A.M.
1 minute read
The Georgia Collectors Association has awarded three students with a $500 Phil Bennett Memorial Scholarship for the 2023-24 school year.
Scholarship applicants were asked to submit an essay on “The Importance of Credit to a Young Person.” Winners were selected based on their essay responses.
The Georgia Collectors Association congratulates this year’s recipients:
Laila Adair
Adair is attending Spelman College in Atlanta. She is active in theater, Black Student Union, gymnastics, dance, piano, Spanish and French Language Club, and the Christian Fellowship Club. She volunteers with Meals on Wheels Atlanta and her church’s youth group.
In her essay she writes, “Credit is essential for establishing financial independence. Many young people rely on their parents or guardians for financial support, but credit allows them to take control of their finances and become financially independent.”
William (Liam) McClimans
McClimans is attending the University of South Carolina in Columbia, S.C. He is active in JROTC, soccer, Raider Challenge Team, Mock Trial, Campus Ministry, and the National Honor Society. He volunteers with Catholic War Veterans, BC Sports Camp, JROTC Color Guard, Drill Team, and Sabre Guard.
In his essay he notes, “Having good credit can also open doors to opportunities that would otherwise be unavailable to me. It can enable me to obtain a loan for a business, or invest in the stock market, or even help me qualify for a low-interest rate on a mortgage, which can save me money over the life of a mortgage loan. A good credit rating is essential for those who aspire to start their businesses or become entrepreneurs.”
Devon Woodfine
Devon is attending California State Polytechnic University in Pomona, Calif. He is the president of the National Society of Black Engineers and a youth advocate for Project SUCCESS and he volunteers with the Brotherhood Crusade.
In his essay he says, “By establishing good credit habits early on, young people can set themselves up for a successful and financially secure future. It is important to address and work towards reducing disparities in credit access based on race, age, and gender, ensuring equal opportunities for all individuals to benefit from good credit to uplift generations of people blocked from financial stimulants.”
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