Two Talladega College students were among 86 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students that were selected for the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities as 2021 HBCU Scholars.
Ms. Ayala Seaborn of Pelham, AL, and Mr. Ashton Hall of Talladega, AL; were recognized as HBCU Scholars for their superior academic achievements, campus and civic involvement, and entrepreneurial spirits. The scholars were selected from an applicant pool of over 200 students who submitted completed applications, including a transcript, resume, essay, and letter of recommendation. They were also required to assess their personal and career aspirations and the needs of their institutions and communities to help determine the best ways the Initiative and its partners might provide support.
Seaborn and Hall were selected from among numerous highly distinguished HBCU students. In addition, each recognized scholar was nominated and endorsed by their institution’s president.
“These students have demonstrated their capacity to address challenges that were set before them during the pandemic and not only excelled but also demonstrated an aptitude for hard work, collaboration, and ingenuity,” said Dr. Billy C. Hawkins, president of Talladega College.
According to Dr. Lisa Long, provost/executive vice president for academic affairs at Talladega College, Seaborn and Hall are exceptional representatives for the College and she is elated that they were selected for the Initiative.
“Talladega College is dedicated to producing well-rounded leaders who think independently, who are self-assured, and who are committed to intellectual growth and service to their community,” said Long. “Ms. Seaborn and Mr. Hall are remarkable students with unwavering dedications to academics, leadership, and service.”
Selected HBCU Scholars will be invited to the 2021 HBCU Week National Annual Conference, which will take place September 7-10, 2021. This year's conference theme is "Exploring Equity." During their time at the conference, they will participate in sessions about entrepreneurship, innovation, and personal and professional development. Most importantly, they will also have opportunities to engage with one another and showcase their individual and collective talent across the HBCU community.
More information about the HBCU Scholars' activities will be provided in the coming months as they serve as ambassadors of the White House Initiative on Historically Black colleges and Universities.
