Program Update

In the Media

PRESS RELEASE: Los Angeles Sentinel, June 19, 2024

Ten LA Students Awarded 2024 Bessie Morris Foundation Academic Scholarships

For the third year running, the Bessie Morris Foundation, a local non-profit organization, awarded 10 academic scholarships. Los Angeles Sentinel published article by Christy McNorton announcing the recipients.

Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, community involvement, future aspirations, and financial need. The recipients are at various stages on their educational journey.

Ivory Freeman founded the Bessie Morris Foundation in 2005 in memory of her grandmother, Mrs. Bessie Bernice Morris, to provide underserved girls in Los Angeles with resources and tools to help them reach their dreams. In 2022, the Academic Scholarship program was established through a grant from the Southern California Chapter of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (SCC NOBLE). That year, four scholarships in the name of Mom and Pop Riddick were awarded. Bessie Morris Foundation expanded the scholarship program in 2023 and for the second consecutive year is awarding ten scholars $500 each towards their college studies.

“Even those who have been awarded financial aid may have difficulties purchasing school supplies and dorm furnishings, as funds are often not distributed until after the school session has begun. We want to help those of low-income to have the opportunity to better themselves,” said Freeman.

Read original LA Sentinel article here or view PDF

Related Bessie Morris Foundation program update.