Savannah Standard

Two seniors from Woodville-Tompkins Technical and Career High School, along with one senior from New Hampstead High School, have been named 2023 Gates Millennium Scholars. Jordan Haskell and Mekhi West of Woodville-Tompkins, and Taniyah Cheeks of New Hampstead High are among the 300 students selected nationwide for this prestigious award.

As recipients, they will receive full funding for their undergraduate tuition. The program also offers mentorship, career services, leadership training, and support for graduate studies in certain fields.

Woodville-Tompkins has now had four students honored as Gates Millennium Scholars. "This serves as a testament to the work being done on our campus by our amazing faculty and staff who create an environment conducive for success," said Woodville-Tompkins Principal Alfred McGuire. Taniyah Cheeks is the first scholar chosen from New Hampstead High School.

The Gates Millennium Scholars Program is funded by a $1.6 billion grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Established in 1999, it aims to provide outstanding low-income African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian Pacific Islander American, and Hispanic American students with the opportunity to complete an undergraduate education in any discipline. Annually, it enables 5,000 students to attend some of the most selective private and public schools across the country.

The program provides recipients with leadership development opportunities, mentoring, academic and social support as well as financial aid. It boasts high graduation rates with a six-year rate exceeding 87 percent.

For more information about the Gates Scholarship: https://youtu.be/5TD2STAoT1o or visit their website.