Jordan Brand this week has announced its 2018 Wings Scholarship recipients. Totaling 26 students from major cities across the U.S., the program aimed to aid underprivileged youth realize their dreams of a higher education continues to shine a light on the sneaker community and all the good that takes place within its confines.
With students from cities that include Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia and Portland, each potential winner was tasked with a few deeds to quality. First, they’d have to answer two essay questions along with submission of their transcripts and SAT scores. A personal video was also required, where students would, to a lesser degree, plead their case for the life-changing scholarship opportunity.
The Wings Scholarship offers each student a full ride to any college of their choosing. In addition to financial aid, the program also hosts mentorship and support organizations in various communities throughout the U.S.
Each of the 26 students were notified of their selection through a large blue box with “WINGS” stamped across its center. Inside, however, they wouldn’t find sneakers. Something far more valuable was positioned within. A certificate, signed by both Michael Jordan and Jordan Brand Vice President Howard White, reads “Congratulations! You have been selected as a Jordan Wings Scholar.”
Dating back to the charitable organization’s inception, the Wings Scholarship has sent more than 225 students to college. In the past, Jordan Brand allowed community partners to nominate potential recipients. However, in 2018, the company created an in-house selection committee. The well-rounded, 14-person committee complete with Nike and Jordan Brand employees, submitted to a two-day training hosted by the United Negro College Fund before screening a total of 96 applicants.
Source: The Undefeated
