Students and educators celebrate together at the S.W.A.G. Scholarship Awards, honoring perseverance and achievements.
The S.W.A.G. Scholarship Awards honored 15 high school seniors for their remarkable resilience and achievements despite facing personal barriers. During the event at Marygrove, $100,000 in scholarships was distributed, including a top award of $25,000. The program, which began in 2015, aims to support future leaders in Detroit through financial aid, mentorship, and community service. Additionally, five educators were recognized for their impactful contributions to student success, emphasizing the vital role of education in shaping the community.
Detroit, MI – The 2025 S.W.A.G. Scholarship Awards took place at Marygrove on June 9, 2024, honoring 15 graduating seniors for their resilience and achievements in the face of significant personal barriers. The awards, which stand for Students Wired for Achievement and Greatness, celebrate students who have demonstrated exceptional determination in their educational journeys.
During the ceremony, $100,000 in scholarships was awarded to students, with scholarships ranging from $2,500 to a top prize of $25,000. Ahauna Reed, a graduate of Northwestern High School, received the largest scholarship, which she will use to attend Ohio Technical College for welding. This year also marked a significant milestone as four former SWAG recipients received alumni scholarships to support their college careers.
The scholarship distribution included:
In addition to recognizing student achievements, the SWAG Awards also honored five educators for their significant impact on students’ lives. These educators were nominated by students, parents, and school leaders for their dedication and compassion. Among the honorees was Torrie Anderson-Lloyd from John R. King Academic and Performing Arts Academy, who has reimagined her classroom environment to enhance student learning.
Adam Harris, the Director of Trio Upward Bound at Grand Valley State University-University Prep Academy, was acknowledged for providing access and celebrating the achievements of his students. Other recipients included Isabella Mahuad from Cesar Chavez Academy, who plans to utilize her grant for a leadership development camp for her National Honor Society students, and Ms. Andrella Muffy Gaynor from Detroit Academy of Arts and Sciences, who aims to create hands-on art experiences. Dayna Peoples, a Reading Specialist at Voyageur Academy, intends to use her grant to address the literacy gap through parental engagement and innovative classroom seating.
The S.W.A.G. program, initiated in 2015, aims to nurture a pipeline of future leaders in Detroit by providing not only financial support but also mentorship and community service opportunities. Since its launch, Huntington Bank and its partners have invested nearly $2 million to foster educational success among local youth.
City Council President Mary Sheffield highlighted the critical role of education in challenging injustices and supporting Detroit’s youth during her address at the event. The words of Gary Torgow, Chairman of Huntington Bank, emphasized the idea that true heroism is found in acts of kindness and compassion towards others. Additionally, the publisher of the Michigan Chronicle remarked on the scholarships reflecting a commitment to the potential of Detroit’s youth.
The event featured an inspiring speech from Rev. Wendell Anthony, who encouraged students to persevere in the face of adversity and to recognize their inherent worth. It served as a reminder of the importance of resilience in achieving personal goals.
The application period for the 2025 S.W.A.G. Scholarships is set to run from January 27, 2025, to March 16, 2025. Students are encouraged to apply to benefit from this program designed to uplift and support their academic aspirations.
The S.W.A.G. Scholarship Awards continue to play a vital role in recognizing the achievements of Detroit students and educators alike, fostering a culture of resilience and dedication within the community.
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