CLEVELAND, Miss.— A Delta State University student was among the first scholarship recipients for the Colgate-Palmolive Company’s inaugural “Inspire our Future” scholarship, designed to encourage and support Black and African American students who demonstrate a sustained commitment to supporting their communities.
Miya Sanders, a junior Business Administration major at Delta State, was among the 10 scholarship recipients selected nationwide. The recipients—who are all pursuing degrees related to supply chain, engineering, sales or marketing—will receive an annual award of $10,000.
Selection was made on a variety of factors, including academic record, demonstrated leadership and participation in school and community activities, work experience, a statement of educational and career goals and objectives as well as online recommendations.
A native of Hollandale, Sanders said the desire to see others succeed is what inspires her to set an example.
“I grew up in a small, rural community in the Mississippi Delta where advanced education is not common,” said Sanders. “I want to set the example of what can be accomplished when you push yourself to go beyond what’s always been done.”
By graduating from college, Sanders said she will be demonstrating to others in her community that they can too.
“Going to school is not easy, and it is not always fun, but it helps set you up to earn greater income, go higher in your profession and understand more about other cultures and world events,” she said. “I’m inspired to set the example for children who see me do life differently understand that they can also live a bigger and better life.”
Colgate-Palmolive has partnered with Scholarship America, a non-profit organization that partners with students, parents, colleges, businesses, and communities to help students fulfill their college dreams.
The awards are renewable for up to two years or until a bachelor’s degree is earned, whichever occurs first. Recipients can use funds not only towards tuition at an accredited college or university, but also for other educational expenses like on-campus housing, textbooks, laptops and more.
“Our company is reimagining a healthier future for all, and our DEI efforts are central to that purpose,” said Derek Gordon, Colgate-Palmolive’s chief diversity, equity, and inclusion officer. “The Inspire Our Future scholarship will help give underrepresented students across the United States the opportunity to thrive.”
Colgate-Palmolive is committed to being an ally and driver for positive change in the communities it serves. To learn more, visit www.colgatepalmolive.com.