CREA Foundation & IUPUI Identify 2022-23 CREA Scholars
- CREA
- Jul 13, 2022
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 5, 2023
CREA Foundation, Inc., in conjunction with academic partner Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), is pleased to announce the selection of the inaugural class of financial and supportive aid recipients in the form of the 2022 CREA Scholars.
After reviewing applications and conducting interviews, CREA Foundation and IUPUI leaders selected ten freshman students at IUPUI to each receive a scholarship on average of $5,000, beginning with the 2022-23 academic year and continuing each subsequent year, in the hopes of supporting their aspirations to achieve a post-secondary degree.
In May of this year, the landmark CREA Scholars Program was launched at IUPUI with the aim of supporting students residing in affordable housing communities by providing funds and assistance through scholarships, educational support and access to wraparound services.
“We were elated with the overwhelming response to our very first CREA Foundation Scholarship Program and are excited about the high-caliber of students selected for this initial cohort of CREA Scholars at IUPUI,” stated Arvetta Jideonwo, CREA Foundation Executive Director “These individuals exude the confidence and motivation we’re looking for in first-year students to ensure they are successful in attaining their post-secondary degree, which is our mission in helping students cross the finish line. In addition, they will receive unparalleled support from IUPUI and the CREA family to assist them on their educational journey!”
The new CREA Scholars Program at IUPUI generated significant interest, resulting in a competitive application process. Eighty-six students applied, twenty interviewed, and ten were selected as the first class of scholars, including:
Gracie Boles – Brownstown, IN
Perrena Stockard – Indianapolis, IN
Amaree Conley – Indianapolis, IN
Raniya Knuckles – Evansville, IN
Nomar Reyes – Indianapolis, IN
Kamya Williams – Indianapolis, IN
Mikaela Watkins – Gary, IN
D’jhanea Joyce – Gary, IN
Amy Deleon – Cicero, IN
Daawan Baker – Anderson, IN
“We remain grateful to the CREA Foundation for continued partnership and support as we launch this wonderful new program at IUPUI this fall,” said Eric Williams, Senior Executive Director of Educational Equity Programs at IUPUI. “The inaugural cohort of CREA Scholars are impressive, both academically and through their community service efforts. We are excited to welcome them to campus and support their continued growth throughout their college careers.”
An official induction ceremony is scheduled for mid-August on the IUPUI campus.
I think programs like the CREA Scholars are incredibly valuable. A few years ago, I struggled to fund my own studies, so I know firsthand what a difference supportive aid can make. Not only does financial help reduce stress, but having a community rooting for you boosts motivation, too. As a way to relax during tough semesters, I often played Geometry Dash. Maybe the new scholars could try it when they need a break!
That's fantastic news! The CREA Foundation and IUPUI's CREA Scholars program is a game-changer, like the classic Block Breaker, demolishing obstacles for these students. Supporting education is key, and these scholarships are invaluable. It's wonderful to see organizations investing in the future by helping motivated students achieve their dreams and break through barriers to higher education. Congratulations to all the CREA Scholars!
It’s inspiring to see how the CREA Foundation, in partnership with IUPUI, is making a real impact by supporting students from affordable housing communities. Programs like these not only ease financial burdens but also provide ongoing support, just like a good teammate in Funny Shooter 2 —helping players (or students) reach new levels together.
That's wonderful news about the CREA Scholars Program! Supporting students in achieving their academic dreams is always a worthwhile investment. Balancing studies and finances can be tough, so this initiative will definitely ease some burdens. It almost reminds me of juggling orders at Papa's Pizzeria - managing multiple things at once! Hopefully, these scholars will find the same success in their studies as a perfectly cooked pizza gets in that game. A great step forward by CREA Foundation & IUPUI!
In Poor Bunny, you'll go on an exciting adventure where peril lurks around every corner. Do your best to avoid obstacles, collect carrots, and test your endurance.