Malaysia Davis was awarded the John Lennon Endowed Scholarship and Tell Us About “U” Scholarship from UNCF—just in time for her to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in communication arts from Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU), a UNCF-member institution.

As a first-generation, nontraditional student and mother from Portland, OR, UNCF support enabled Davis to graduate on time. “It’s [UNCF scholarships] given me the stability and motivation to keep working toward my degree and a better future,” she said. “Without UNCF scholarships, I wouldn’t be completing my degree now.”

Davis started her collegiate journey at Alabama State University but transferred to Johnson C. Smith University after hearing about her cousin’s experience. She was inspired by the sense of community, support and mentorship that her cousin received as a student. “I knew this institution would give me everything I need to be successful after graduating,” she shared.

The location of the campus was another factor that influenced Davis’ decision to transfer. She wanted to be closer to her mother and other family members as she raised her daughter. Davis plans to live in the Charlotte, NC community long-term. “It was important to me that my daughter grows up around education, leadership and positive role models,” she said. “I wanted her to feel connected to a community of scholars from an early age.”

The impact of receiving UNCF scholarships extends beyond financial support and helps empower the next generation. Davis shared its impact on motherhood, allowing her to spend more time with her daughter instead of working multiple jobs or placing her in daycare full-time. “It showed me that education and hard work truly create opportunities and it reinforced the importance of using knowledge to build a stable future,” she said. “Because of this experience, I will always encourage my daughter to pursue higher education confidently and understand that scholarships and academic dedication can open doors to financial freedom and long-term success.”

By easing the financial burden of obtaining a college education, Davis was able to participate in extracurricular activities that aligned with her major and future career aspirations. “Without UNCF, I would possibly not be enrolled right now,” she said. “It has made a real difference in keeping me in school, not having to take out extra loans and moving forward.”

With the financial support, she was able to participate in extracurricular activities like being a Golden Bulls Brand Ambassador and Golden Bulls TV (GBTV) news reporter. As a brand ambassador, she represented the university, giving tours to current and prospective students, detailing the university’s history and culture. Her experience as an on-campus reporter for GBTV helped her build relationships and find her voice.

She reflects on her most memorable experience at the university—covering Homecoming festivities as a reporter. It was an opportunity for her to gain new skills in her career and connect with the community while learning how to express herself on camera. After graduation, Davis plans to produce educational films and provide her community with tools and resources that motivate them to find their passion.