The Cape Verdean Recognition Committee Awards 30 Scholarships to Students in Greater New Bedford Area

New Bedford, MA - In a remarkable display of community support and dedication to education, the Cape Verdean Recognition Committee hosted an event at the Whaling City Museum to award 30 scholarships totaling $55,500 to deserving students from the Greater New Bedford area. The ceremony, attended by distinguished guests including New Bedford Mayor John Mitchell, doctors, lawyers, and community leaders, celebrated the achievements of these exceptional students and their commitment to pursuing higher education.

The recipients of the scholarships represented seven high schools in the region and included, high academic achievers, honor society members and student leaders. It was an evening filled with inspiration and hope, as these students were recognized for their outstanding academic performance and their potential to make a positive impact in their chosen fields.

Notably, one-third of the scholarship recipients expressed their intention to pursue degrees in the medical field, demonstrating their dedication to healthcare and helping others. Additionally, most of the students ranked within the top 20% and some in the top 10% of their respective graduating classes, a testament to their academic excellence and hard work.

The event showcased the diversity and inclusiveness of the Greater New Bedford area, with several scholarship recipients being newcomers to the country, students students of Cape Verdean heritage as well as students of other nationalities. The committee recognized the value of supporting these students and providing them with opportunities to thrive.

The generous scholarships awarded to these deserving students were made possible by the kind contributions of various sponsors and donors. The committee expressed their gratitude to these donors for their support, which enabled them to invest in the educational future of the community's youth.

During the ceremony, Dr. Bruce A. Rose delivered a welcome message on behalf of the committee, highlighting the impact their scholarships have on students' educational pursuits. Dr. Rose also shared powerful quotes from essays submitted during the application process, emphasizing the perseverance and determination displayed by the applicants.

Addressing the scholarship recipients and their families, the President and CEO of the New Bedford Whaling Museum expressed her support to the committee's ongoing commitment to helping local students. She praised their efforts and encouraged the recipients to seize the opportunities presented to them.

Ms. Lauren Pina, a former scholarship recipient, took to the stage to share her personal experience as a student and express her gratitude to the committee. Her heartfelt speech resonated with the audience, showing the transformative impact of scholarships on students' lives.

As the guest speaker of the evening, Mr. Tem Blessed, a renowned rap artist and Arts and Culture Manager for Dream.org, delivered a powerful speech aimed at empowering the students. Through a unique blend of spoken word and rap lyrics, he encouraged the recipients to channel any negative experiences into positive actions and to believe in themselves wholeheartedly.

Each scholarship recipient had the opportunity to express their gratitude to their parents, sponsors, and the committee during their individual speeches. They emphasized how the financial support received will enable them to pursue their dreams and make a meaningful contribution to their community.

Concluding the event, Ivan Brito, the President of the Cape Verdean Recognition Committee, delivered closing remarks. He spoke about the significance of embracing the Cape Verdean heritage, encouraging scholarship recipients to appreciate their cultural roots. Mr. Brito invited the recipients to visit the enchanting islands of Cape Verde, assuring them that it would be an unforgettable experience.

The night concluded with a joyous celebration, featuring food and refreshments, providing an opportunity for those in attendance to come together and further strengthen the bonds of support and camaraderie.

The Cape Verdean Recognition Committee's dedication to empowering students and investing in their futures has not only transformed the lives of these 30 scholarship recipients but also serves as an inspiration for the entire Cape Verdean community. With their education and scholarships in hand, these promising students are now poised to make a lasting impact in their respective fields and contribute to the continued growth and prosperity of the country.