First Generation University to host Hill-to-Hill Scholarship Fundraiser

Online, August 25, 2010 (Newswire.com) - Contact: Shonda Goward
Founder, First Generation University
admin@firstgenerationu.org
240.242.9035

First Generation University to host Hill-to-Hill Scholarship Fundraiser
Event benefits Shonda L. Goward Out of STATE Scholarship Fund

Washington, DC - First Generation University is hosting its second annual Hill-to-Hill Scholarship Fundraiser on Sunday, September 12, 2010 at 2 p.m. at The Corner Store in the District. The fundraiser will showcase budding local artist, Akua Allrich, while raising funds for low-income students of color at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

The proceeds of Hill-to-Hill will benefit the Shonda L. Goward Out of Support to Alleviate Tuition Expenses (STATE) Scholarship Fund. Although UNC has funds such as the Carolina Covenant to support low-income students, this scholarship focuses on out-of-state students who normally do not have a fund dedicated to them.

"2009 marked my tenth year as a graduate, so I contacted UNC to find out how I could contribute as an alumnus. I wanted my donations to go to out-of-state students because I was one myself, and I know how important it is to have scholarships in place that lessen the work burdens of future Tarheels," says Goward. "They suggested I create my own fund, which I hope will help students like me to focus on their studies."

Christopher Riddick, a 2000 UNC graduate‬, agrees. "Carolina provides rewarding academic and enrichment opportunities for its students. The school prepares students well for life beyond college; the Carolina experience places people in a position to compete with their counterparts," Riddick says. "‪It's essential to support low-income students of color in order for them to have these same opportunities and experiences at UNC, for them to develop in and out of the classroom and be prepared to make their impact in the world."

This year's Hill-to-Hill featured vocalist is Akua Allrich, whose explosion onto the local jazz scene has inspired music lovers from all walks to enjoy her exceptional fusion of several musical genres. Akua's musical genius has audiences in awe of her vocal performance and stage presence. She produces and performs shows including a Nina Simone tribute, a tribute to African-American women in jazz, Afro-Brazilian jazz performances, her own original compositions, and several other solo and joint productions.
The Corner Store, an art and theater space which supports local artists, is located near the Eastern Market metro station at 900 South Carolina Avenue, SE. Tickets for this event can be purchased at www.eventbee.com/event?eid=716256283.
First Generation University understands that earning a formal collegiate education does not end with the admissions process, and seeks to empower first-generation college students and their families with information that will help first these students complete a bachelor's degree. While academic preparation is a large part of the battle, engaging a new environment without knowledge of how the systems of higher education operate may leave even the most exceptional first-generation college student in the dark; First Generation University seeks to demystify the various layers of higher education and shed light on the stairway to success. www.firstgenerationu.org.
###