In the realm of prestigious scholarships, few stand out as prominently as The Posse Foundation Scholarship. These scholarships are not only an acknowledgment of academic excellence but also a celebration of commitment to making a positive impact on one’s community and demonstrating collaborative leadership. All students selected as Posse scholars receive a full scholarship to their college or university and various other forms of support. Excitingly, B-CC’s very own Nolawit Mekonnen has earned the prestigious title of a 2024 Posse scholar! She is one of the 12 students selected from Montgomery County for the honor. Mekonnen, a senior at B-CC, is preparing to attend Sewanee: The University of the South, this fall.
Mekonnen graciously shared her experience of receiving the life-changing news. She explained, “It caught me off guard as the scholarship I had applied for was highly competitive, and there were very talented candidates in my final interview.” She continued, “But I never imagined that I would be selected. When the news reached my ears, gratitude overwhelmed me.” Mekonnen correctly stated the competitiveness of the Posse Foundation Scholarship, given that only around 4% of applicants are accepted yearly.
Founded in 1989, the Posse Foundation focuses on selecting students with outstanding leadership qualities from urban public high schools. As the co-founder and vice president of BCC’s networking club, Mekonnen’s commitment to leadership, as well as her community impact is evident. Mekonnen’s Club at B-CC aims to equip students with the necessary resources to excel academically. She added, “Our focus extends particularly to students who have recently arrived in the United States, recognizing the additional support they often require.” This club’s mission stems from a Mekonnen’s personal experience. She arrived in the United States just a year ago and lacked a lot of knowledge of graduation requirements as well as knowledge regarding the college application process. She stated, “It was through the guidance of teachers and the support of friends that I found my way and grasped this invaluable opportunity. Realizing the transformative impact of this support, two friends and I initiated this club, striving to extend the same assistance to others in circumstances akin to ours.” This remarkable initiative stands as a powerful testament to Mekonnen’s dedication to uplifting her community, an experience she compellingly conveyed during her Posse interview.
Mekonnen emphasized the significance of the Posse Foundation Scholarship, especially as a first-generation student. She expressed, “It’s not merely an accolade but also a significant responsibility and commitment.” She added, “Being chosen for the Posse Foundation Scholarship means I’ve been entrusted with the belief that I can thrive academically at Sewanee.” Mekonnen shared that being granted this scholarship has greatly motivated her. “With all the expenses covered, I’m determined to dedicate myself wholeheartedly to my studies over the next four years,” she said.
Not only does The Posse Foundation Scholarship reward each of its scholars with a full-ride scholarship to their university, but it sets up each student within a diverse and close-knit group of students, known as “Posses.” Posses are groups of 10 students who support each other throughout their college journey. The Posse Foundation website states, “A Posse—carefully selected and trained, can serve as a catalyst for individual and community development.” Mekonnen agreed, “Over the next four years, meeting regularly with the other nine scholars at the new school presents a chance for both academic and personal growth.” Also, Nolawit feels she will benefit from the Posse, in helping her transition to college. When leaving home to attend Sewanee: The University of the South, Mekonnen will be moving to a new state with no connections. She shared, “Although [moving away from home] might seem daunting, having my Posse members there provides a reassuring support system.”
Mekonnen is incredibly appreciative of this opportunity. She said, “It felt like a miracle and a validation of all the work I had put in throughout the year.” Mekonnen also expressed her gratitude towards her support system, which she feels helped her greatly throughout her journey to receiving the Posse Foundation Scholarship. She elaborated, “I want to thank the divine force that orchestrated this path, my parents, as well as my best friend, Nayad, who she described as her ‘rock.”’
Congratulations to Mekonnen for this incredible accomplishment! Mekonnen is deserving of this recognition, as she has worked so hard throughout her high school career. Her selection as a 2024 Posse scholar not only highlights her academic excellence, but also shows her exceptional leadership, dedication to community service, and the transformative impact she will make.
