Foundation for A Bright Future Awards Dr. Emma Lerew Scholarship to Aspiring Educator

Louis Hernandez Jr.'s Foundation For A Bright Future (FABF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting underrepresented and disadvantaged children through education, has announced its 2024 Dr. Emma Lerew Scholarship recipient. The scholarship has been awarded to Lakyn Parker, a motivated and talented 21-year-old from West Virginia, who is determined to make a significant impact in the field of education.

FABF focuses on providing resources and opportunities for children who face obstacles due to their socio-economic backgrounds. The Dr. Emma Lerew Scholarship aims to empower exceptional students pursuing careers in education, ultimately fostering a brighter future for the next generation. Lakyn Parker stands out as an exemplary student who is not only academically accomplished but also exhibits a strong commitment to her community.

Currently, Lakyn is enrolled at West Liberty University, where she is pursuing a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education with a Minor in Early and Special Education while maintaining an impressive 4.0 GPA. Her journey has not been without hardship; the medical expenses associated with her mother’s battle with multiple sclerosis depleted her college savings. Despite these challenges, Lakyn remains undeterred. She effectively balances her studies with part-time work to fund her education and is motivated to become a Reading Specialist, aiming to assist struggling students in her home state.

Lakyn has participated in a variety of educational experiences, enriching her resume and skill set. She has served as a peer tutor, babysitter, and restaurant server, all while contributing to community service initiatives and clubs. Additionally, she earned an associate's degree and Pre-K certification from WV Northern Community College, also with a perfect 4.0 GPA. Lakyn's commitment to her aspirations and community underscores her desire to turn her education into a force for good.

In her own words, Lakyn expressed, “I am incredibly honored to have been chosen for the Dr. Emma Lerew Scholarship for education. This scholarship means so much to me as it not only recognizes my hard work and commitment but also provides the financial support I need to concentrate on my studies. It will allow me to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to inspire and educate future students, helping me achieve my dream of making a meaningful impact in the field of education.”

For A Bright Future Foundation was established by Louis Hernandez, Jr., who is also the CEO of Black Dragon Capital, a firm focused on investment in advanced technologies that bolster economic stability within communities. The foundation is dedicated to illuminating pathways to success by offering scholarships in fields such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), financial technology, healthcare, and education. These scholarships are specifically designed to uplift students who come from underprivileged backgrounds, including those from single-parent households and families with military ties.

In the year 2024 alone, For A Bright Future received an astounding nearly 6,000 applications for its scholarships, highlighting the immense need for educational support among underserved students. A rigorous selection process, managed by expert reviewers, ensures that scholarships are awarded to those who not only excel academically but also demonstrate a commitment to community engagement.

The foundation acknowledges the vital roles played by its dedicated Scholarship Committee, led by Chairwoman Suzie Hernandez and Vice-Chairwoman Jennifer Oddo, in steering the mission forward. They particularly noted the contributions of Melissa Hernandez from United Way, who was instrumental in the selection process.

With a focus on education, healthcare, and community development, For A Bright Future is steadfast in its mission to empower young leaders. The operational team, led by Gina Rogoto, plays a crucial role in identifying outstanding scholarship candidates across the nation and streamlining the scholarship distribution process.

To learn more about For A Bright Future Foundation or to support their mission, visit www.forabrightfuturefoundation.org. Follow them on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, and Instagram for additional updates and insights into their programs and initiatives.

By investing in education and empowering youth, For A Bright Future is making strides toward creating a more equitable society.