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- Category: Campus News
LINCOLN UNIVERSITY, Pa. – For the first time, two Lincoln University students have been selected in the same year by the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities as HBCU Competitiveness Scholars—the Initiative's highest student recognition.
Tanysha Young, a senior studying business information technology and management student from Windsor, Connecticut, and Jalen Scott-Davis, a senior studying finance from Philadelphia, are among the 44 students from 33 historically black colleges and universities.
“Tanysha and Jalen are representative of the precious talent we cultivate at the nation’s first degree-granting HBCU,” said Dr. Brenda A. Allen, Lincoln University president. “This co-curricular opportunity will enhance their educational experience and further prepare them to thrive in the global economy.”
Young serves as vice president of external affairs of the Student Government Association and the secretary of Generation Action, a college affiliate organization under Planned Parenthood. She is also a member of the National Council of Negro Women.
"I am excited to not only network with scholars from other HBCUs but also to gain the opportunity to build relationships with various organizations, that are willing to contribute to the betterment of Lincoln University and all HBCUs in general,” said Young.
“If you would've told me a few years ago that I was going to represent Lincoln on a national level, I wouldn't have believed you. But, over time, I worked and pushed myself to become the leader I've always dreamt to be and have gained the confidence that I need to succeed in my endeavors. Therefore, I am extremely grateful for the opportunity presented before me."
Scott-Davis serves as a resident advisor, a student senator, a member of the National Association of Black Accountants, and volunteers in the Office of Alumni Relations. After graduation, he is interested in working for the federal Department of Energy or the Department of Transportation.
"I am very happy to represent Lincoln University of Pennsylvania as White House HBCU Competitiveness Scholar. This opportunity is the culmination of a lot of hard work and focus. To get to this point in my college career I dedicated myself to growing personally, academically, and professionally. Thank you, Lincoln, for playing an instrumental role in my growth. I look forward to growing more and connecting with other student leaders I meet through this program,” said Scott-Davis.
Selected students will serve for one academic school year representing the 2020-2021 cohort of Competitiveness Scholars. During this unique academic school year, the Initiative will work closely with our federal and non-federal partners to develop a robust calendar of virtual events for our scholars that will explore, exchange ideas and share best practices around leadership, professional development, career pathways, government resources and much more.
Competitiveness Scholars typically assemble during the Annual National HBCU Week Conference. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, scholars will not be able to convene in Washington, D.C. for the National Recognition Program in the fall. Instead, plans are underway for online recognition and virtual campaign to ensure the scholars receive their acknowledgment during the 2020 Virtual HBCU Week Conference. During this virtual event, they will participate in workshops designed to strengthen their leadership and will be encouraged to seek out ongoing personal and professional development in the areas of innovation and entrepreneurship.
Previous Lincoln students who earned a spot as an HBCU Competitiveness Scholar include Elisabeth Bellevue in 2019, Kaliah Evans in 2017, and Gionnelly Mills in 2015.
To learn more, visit the Competitiveness Scholars Program webpage.
