Johnoy Davis, a first-generation college student from Kingston, Jamaica, was able to attend UNCF-member institution Edward Waters University (EWU) thanks to scholarships from UNCF.

Davis is a recipient of the Quillin-Hastings Fund and UNCF Technology Assistance Grant. UNCF offers students access to higher education through scholarships and helps students facing social and economic disadvantages succeed, Davis explained. “Applying for these scholarships is essential, as it opens doors to resources that many students may not otherwise access,” he shared. “It is a reminder that help is available, but it often requires the courage to take the first step.”

“As the first in my family to attend college, I carry both the privilege and responsibility of forging a new path,” Davis said. His mother didn’t get the opportunity to pursue higher education and his father left school after completing the eighth grade.

There aren’t a lot of grants or scholarships for international students. “But through UNCF, I’ve been able to secure the financial support that I needed to thrive in academia,” Davis said. “The numerous scholarships that I’ve won through UNCF have alleviated the financial burden associated with higher education.”

AT EWU, he studies communications with a concentration in journalism. Davis earned a 4.0 GPA for three consecutive years and also received the president’s award and the male academic award. Outside of his educational accolades, he participates in campus organizations, serving as vice president of the Student Government Association, senior resident assistant, president of the EWU concert choir, recruitment specialist for the Eminent Chapter of the Collegiate Black Male Network and chief musician for the campus ministry.

Support from UNCF gave Davis the opportunity to pursue leadership roles on campus that contributed to his professional development and alleviated the financial burdens of college. As a UNCF Ambassador, he planned and implemented campus events to raise awareness about UNCF scholarships and programming and how UNCF can empower students to get through college successfully. “Through national networking events, I connected with student leaders from across the country, sharing ideas and learning best practices,” he said. “These experiences have refined my strategic thinking and prepared me for leadership beyond the collegiate environment.”

When choosing a college, Davis looked for a campus environment that was close to the climate and culture of Jamaica. At EWU, he found a community and more. “While the weather [particularly in the winter] did not meet my expectations, I quickly discovered something even more meaningful: a community rooted in purpose, excellence and familial support,” he said. “This sense of belonging continues to inspire my academic and personal growth.”

One of his most memorable college experiences was representing his university at the HBCU Takeoff: Institutional Innovations for College Men of Color event in Los Angeles, CA. HBCU Takeoff is a “multiyear initiative that aims to innovate approaches to student success at community colleges and four-year postsecondary institutions across the United States,” according to the USC Race and Equity Center. The programs initiative includes addressing racial inequities that disadvantage men of color in college.

He said it was an experience that helped him advocate for his peers on a national level and affirmed his value to the university through his contributions.

After graduation, Davis plans to attend graduate school to advance his skills in digital media. His career aspirations include working in print media and becoming a radio host.

He credits UNCF and its scholarships and programming for providing a transformative educational experience that helped him reduce his college debt and achieve his dreams of attending college. “UNCF scholarships have been transformative in my educational experience,” he shared. “They have significantly reduced the financial strain on my family and me, allowing me to focus more intently on academic and leadership pursuits.”

UNCF is proud of our students and alumni who have received scholarships that help them continue their education and graduate. These scholarships are invaluable to students, and UNCF is accepting donations to support students like Johnoy Davis in their academic endeavors.

Share your story with UNCF!