Scholarships
BTI Scholarship Recipients
2025
Ladarius Irving
2024
Jalecia Jackson
2023
Gilbert Morgan
2022
Cornisha Washington
2021
Isaiah Johnson
2020
Adrian Anthony, Jr.
2019
Gabrielle Thomas
2018
Gamma Phi Delta Sorority
2017
Valdosta City Laker Cats
Why We Give Back
To empower youth with the skills, support, and encouragement they need to succeed in school, in life, and in their future.
We envision a community where every young person feels seen, valued, and equipped to reach their fullest potential — academically, socially, and personally.
2025 Scholarship Recipient
Ladarius Irvin is the 9th recipient of the BTI Scholarship. He was an Honors student enrolled in both Advanced Placement (AP) and Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) courses. In 2023, he was recognized by CollegeBoard as a National African American Student for Outstanding Academic Achievement. Ladarius is very passionate about science and technology. He plans to attend college to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology, with a concentration in Paleontology, and a minor in Geospatial Technology Systems at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. His future career goals and aspirations include becoming a Paleontology Research Manager and eventually a Museum Curator to study and preserve fossils. Ladarius is focused on increasing diversity in STEM fields, specifically the Earth sciences and Paleontology, and hopes to be a role model for other African American male youth who share his passion for science and discovery.
2024 Scholarship Recipient
Jalecia Jackson is the 8th recipient to receive the BTI Scholarship. Jalecia attended Berkeley Preparator School, graduating with a 3.8 GPA. She was also dual enrolled as a college student. While attending Berkeley Prep Jalecia was a member of the debate team. Jalecia will be attending the University of South Florida majoring in Criminal Justice. Upon completion at USF, Jalecia plans to attend law school. Jalecia also received the Phi-Teen scholarship of Delta Delta Chapter of Gamma Phi Delta Sorority, Incorporated. Jalecia has been an integral part of this Sorority’s Youth Auxiliary. As a Phi-Teen, Jalecia served as its President, completed numerous community service hours, and volunteered during for special events. Jalecia is a well-rounded young lady who have been a role model and inspiration for her classmates and peers. Her commitment to social, cultural, and academic excellence is evident in her extensive involvement in community service, school activities, and outstanding academic, and educational achievements.
2023 Scholarship Recipient
Gilbert is a senior at Jesuit High School Tampa with plans to attend The University of Alabama in the Fall of 2023. Gilbert plans to major in Sports Management/Pre-Law/ ROTC with the goal of becoming a JAG Officer with the United States Air Force/Space Force. Because of his commitment to academic excellence, Gilbert was invited to participate in the University Honors College and the BRIDGE Mentorship Program. Gilbert is very active in school, church, and his local community. He held leadership positions as Freshman Class President and Founder of the Jesuit Chess Club . He is also a member of the Basketball Team, Chess Team, Media Team, African American Club and Jesuit Sports Network. At G2G Ministries, Gilbert is a leader amongst the Edge Youth and serves on the Media Team. His community involvement includes volunteerism with Feed Tampa Bay, The Skills Center of Tampa, Kappa Alpha Psi Guide Right Foundation (Treasurer), MLK Parade Committee, Jesuit Summerbridge Program, and Academy Prep Tampa.
Gilbert is the 7th recipient of our $500 Scholarship.
2022 Scholarship Recipient
Cornisha Washington is a honor graduate, graduating with a 5.4 GPA and a SAT score of 1,000. Additional honors included Guidance Academic Scholar Award, Internet Business Associate Certification, Social Media Strategist Certification, and a Black Excellence nominee. Her extracurricular activities included Thurgood Marshall History Club, Beta Club, Key Club Book Club, and BestFit Foundation. Her community service includes Feeding Tampa Bay- food pantry/stocking and handing out food; Copeland Park- going around the park and pick up trash; Key Club- creating get well soon cards for a retirement home, Breast Cancer Awareness chalk event; school beautification event; BestFit Foundation- creating posters for a clothing drive. Care for Kids- designing cards for children with encouraging messages.
2019 Scholarship Recipient
Gabby Thomas, US OLYMPIAN
"Receiving my scholarship gave me an initial support that allowed me to step onto my college campus and focus on my studies. I am now graduated from Harvard University and attending graduate school at the University of Texas."
-Gabby T.
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2019 Scholarship Recipient
Hear AJ's Story
Click play to hear and listen to how the BTI scholarship helped AJ's education.
