Scholarship

The Brenda Wilson
Scholarship Program

In honor of Steve’s mother, who passed away when he was in high school, SFF created The Brenda Wilson Scholarship Program. Brenda’s dedication to Steve’s education and her dream for him to attend college serves as his inspiration to help students overcome financial hurdles so that they too may fulfill their dreams.

For the first eight years of the program, The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston had exclusively nominated candidates for the $10,000 awards. Steve strongly believes that his involvement with the Boys & Girls Clubs and connection to mentors through the Clubs while growing up in Takoma Park, Maryland positively influenced his path in life. Therefore, he places a high value on proven dedication to the community. In 2013, The Steve Francis Foundation expanded its applicant pool to also include nominations from Coaches, Teach for America Corps Members, KIPP Houston High School, Pro-Vision and YesPrep teachers. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment in the community and exude leadership, character, and academic commitment.

Since 2004, sixty-five (65) scholarships totaling $650,000 have been awarded. With continued support from the community, The Steve Francis Foundation is devoted to keeping Brenda’s memory alive by awarding The Scholarships for years to come.

Financial Aid Advice
from SFF Scholars

2011 - Alex Oritz

2011 Recipient, Graduate of University of Houston, Sports Administration Major

“There is nothing sweeter then to graduate from college without being in debt. Seeking financial assistance through grants or scholarships is something that everyone should try to take advantage of . Avoid loans as much as possible as the average student loan debt after graduation is about $26,000 to $35,000.”

2009 - Kiara Pruitt

2009 Recipient, Graduate of Texas State University, Communications Major

“Make sure your aid is covering all your classes before the class date. This will ensure that none of your classes get dropped. If you do not need loans do not take them, especially unsubsidized because those start accumulating interest while you are still in school. Double check everything when filling out your FAFSA it may take time but even the simplest mistake like a letter in your name or a misplaced number can be all they need to deny or delay your aid.”

2008 - Melissa Perez

2008 Recipient, Graduate of University of St. Thomas, Child Psychology

“Stay away from loans. I took any grants from FAFSA and any other scholarships from my school or any other alternative scholarships. Also, it is important to fill out the FAFSA as soon possible and make sure the information is sent to the school. Lastly, keeping up with your grades.”

2005 - Eric Griffin

2005 Recipient, Graduate of Oklahoma University, Petroleum Engineering Major

“Start looking for financial aid opportunities as soon as possible and never be afraid to apply for something you don’t thing you quite qualify for. There are lots of scholarships that go unclaimed due to not enough people applying for them. Juniors focus hard on the PSAT. There is a lot of financial aid and scholarships associated with doing well on the test.”

2005 - Michelle Sanders-Limonthas

2005 Recipient, Graduate of Amherst College, Biology Major

“The best way to pursue scholarships is to pursue three things…1) community service, 2) specializations and 3) good grades. Good grades are important because the organization that is supplying the scholarship wants to know that their money will be a good investment. Consequently, having good grades will assist you when completing for scholarships against other students. In addition to good grades, it is important for you to specialize in something that you enjoy. What makes you different from everyone else? Why should the scholarship committee remember you? Lastly, community service shows that you realize the importance of helping others.”