Sloane Stephens is taking applications for the third round of her annual Doc & Glo Scholarship, which celebrates Black History Month.
The former US Open champion established the $30,000 scholarship in 2022 to honor her grandparents, with this year’s cash aimed at supporting six kids attending an HBCU or pursuing a profession in health care.“This scholarship aims to support students passionate about pursuing careers in the health/medical field or attending an HBCU. It’s a tribute to Doc & Glo, who believed deeply in the power of education and left a lasting legacy of community service and leadership,” Stephens wrote in a post on social media. “Six deserving students will each receive a $5K scholarship to help them pursue their dreams in healthcare or at an HBCU, continuing the legacy of Docs and Glos making a difference in the world…
“Let’s honor the spirit of Doc and Glo by empowering the next generation of leaders and medical professionals.”
Stephens paid tribute to her grandparents on social media earlier this month. Her grandfather, Dr. Noel Smith (“Doc”), was an obstetrician who delivered over 20,000 babies and served the community as a member of the NAACP and local boards and commissions. Her grandmother, Gloria (“Glo”), was a dedicated community activist, President of the National Council of Negro Women, and board member of the Fresno Arts Center, among other things.
“On this first day of Black History Month, I wanted to share more about my incredible grandparents, Doc and Glo,” Stephens wrote. “I am who I am because of them and I strive to carry on their legacy.”
Stephens collaborated with Bold to create the scholarship in 2022, joining a long line of celebrities who use the platform to support education, including NBA stars Carmelo Anthony and Dwyane Wade, actors Jameela Jamil and Terry Crews, Grammy-winning band Imagine Dragons, and many more.
For more details and to apply, visit http://go.bold.org/sloane. All applicants must submit a personal essay that “highlights your determination to overcome challenges” before the August 1, 2024 deadline, with winners to be announced on August 7.