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Amazon recently announced that it partnered with the Chicago Football Classic to award scholarships and encourage students headed off to college to attend HBCUs.
Amazon aims to demonstrate a commitment to diversity through its recruitment programs, where it also partners with over 20 HBCUs. These institutions are crucial in developing Black professionals and bridging the STEM gap nationwide. Through Amazon’s efforts, they will continue to address systemic barriers and create positive economic impacts.
Amazon Official: A Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
President of Amazon’s Black Employee Network for Chicago, Matthew Grady, opened the press conference and expressed his pride in hosting this event on the company’s behalf. He stated that over 36,000 Chicago colleagues and 1,500 corporate and tech hub employees are based here.
“At Amazon, our core values foster a strong and diverse workforce. We leverage our scale and innovative spirit to inspire and prepare young people for future careers through entrepreneurship and community service programs, just like the Chicago Football Classic,” Grady said. “We believe raising awareness and providing access to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) can significantly impact young people’s educational and career journeys, equipping them to achieve their dreams.”
Celebrating Scholarship Recipients and Encouraging Future Leaders
This year’s purpose is to unite community organizations, elected officials and corporate partners, all dedicated to engaging with students and families.
Mayor Brandon Johnson joined colleagues from the City Council, including Alds. David Moore (17th) and Stephanie Coleman (16th), to thank all the outstanding recipients, parents and everyone who played a crucial role in building “a better, stronger, safer Chicago.” He was delighted to celebrate the 2024 Chicago Football Classic scholarship recipients.
Johnson added that he was thrilled to see the next generation of young Black Chicagoans heading to HBCUs, continuing their education and building their futures. Through the Chicago Football Classic Scholarship Fund, they can pursue their dreams.
“As a former teacher, I deeply believe in the transformative power of education,” Johnson said.
“This next chapter of your life will shape you into whoever you aspire to be. Embrace every opportunity and keep an open mind. College is not just about academics; it’s about building strong communities, joining clubs, making friends, studying abroad and pursuing internships.”
“Invest in yourself, as this investment will pay off in your future,” Mayor Johnson said.
This year, Johnson also celebrates this program’s success and impact on our communities.
According to the Mayor, in the last 15 months, Chicago has seen a 32% increase in youth employment, with 27,418 young people employed due to our investments.
Encouragement from Community Leaders
Ald. Coleman added, “Parents, please get involved in alumni associations to ensure the Chicago Football Classic continues to thrive. Scholars, as you enter Grambling, TSU, FAMU, Morehouse and other HBCUs, remember to come back to Chicago and share your experiences. Your success is the next generation’s success.”
Brianna Moreland, a proud Chicago native and alumna of Texas Southern University, reflected on how her HBCU experience prepared her for a career as a media relations associate at Rise Strategy Group, a minority-owned PR firm. She also expressed gratitude for community support that helped her graduate debt-free.
“The Chicago Football Classic Scholarship Fund awards $5,000 annually to students attending HBCUs, making a long-term investment in their education,” Moreland said.
“HBCUs celebrate cultural heritage, promote academic excellence, and provide a nurturing environment. These scholarships enable students to pursue their passions without financial stress. Congratulations to all the scholars.”
Moreland also advised students to embrace every opportunity, dive into their studies and have fun.
“Get involved in campus organizations and make the most of your college years. This is your time to shine,” she said.
The co-title sponsors were Ronald Red from BMO Bank and Rev. Turner from Sherman Dodge.
Reverend Turner stated, “The Chicago Football Classic has given over $1 million in scholarships, investing in our future. Your past does not define you. Focus on your future possibilities.”
The Legacy of the Chicago Football Classic
For 26 years, the Chicago Football Classic has exposed young men and women to HBCUs, leading to significant educational opportunities. The college fair provides $1 to $1.5 million on-site scholarships annually.
Melvin Slater, a previous scholarship recipient, shared his college experience, how the scholarship helped him, and his thoughts on one day taking Mayor Johnson’s job.
“I am a sophomore civil engineering major at Howard University, and this scholarship has done so much for me,” Slater said. “I will be graduating debt-free. I want to thank Amazon for investing in HBCUs, especially since they also have a drone academy they’re sponsoring at Howard.”
“If it weren’t for this scholarship, I wouldn’t be going to Howard. It’s great that I can do this, and it’s motivated me to come back to Chicago when I come back, and I will be investing in my community. And I might be taking your job,” Slater said, laughing with the crowd and Mayor Johnson.
The other mission of the CFC is the game itself, which commences at Soldier Field on Sept. 21 between the Morehouse Tigers and the Kentucky State Thorobreds, along with a litany of activities leading up to the big game.
In the press conference’s closing remarks, CFC Co-founder Larry Huggins addressed the other “elephant” in the room.
“Chicago, are you ready for some football?”
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