Spelman Students Receive $10,000 Sallie Mae Fund Scholarship 

Bridging the Dream, while Bridging the Financial Gap 

Spelman College is proud to announce that two of its students are recipients of the Sallie Mae Bridging the Dream Scholarship. Zarah Bethea, C’2029, a political science major, and Christina Simone Coker, C’2029, a health sciences major, have been selected due to their stellar academic performances and demonstration of financial need. Each student was awarded $10,000 from the Sallie Mae Fund, in partnership with Thurgood Marshall College Fund, according to a press release from Sallie Mae.

“Scholarships can be one of the most effective ways to reduce out-of-pocket college costs, but too often they are underutilized or simply go unclaimed,” said Rick Castellano, vice president, Sallie Mae. “That’s why it’s so important to continue raising awareness, dispelling scholarship myths, and building resources that make it easier for students to find and apply for them.” 

November is National Scholarship Month, and Sallie Mae is focused on promoting the free tools and guidance offered to help students find and win scholarships. This year, 40 high school students, including Bethea (left) and Coker (right), from across the country were recognized for not only their success in the classroom, but the impact they’ve made in their communities. The program provides an opportunity for students to capitalize on their potential, leverage their academic prowess, and break barriers that hinder scholarly pursuits.  

Through the Sallie Mae Fund, students can overcome financial barriers prohibiting them from college access and completion of their higher education. Since 2021, in partnership with Thurgood Marshall College Fund, more than 1,100 students have been awarded nearly $4 million in scholarships. The program emphasizes education affordability, providing meaningful resources to help students achieve their academic and career goals.  

To learn more on the Bridging the Dream scholarship, read the official press release here.