#United States #Colorado Springs #Sachs Foundation #Ta-Nehisi Coates #Black Scholars

Sachs Foundation Honors New Class of Scholars

On May 6, 2025, the Sachs Foundation proudly announced the selection of 53 outstanding Black scholars who will receive a remarkable total of over $1.9 million in scholarships. This event reflects the Foundation’s long-standing commitment to fostering Black excellence and creating pathways for academic success amid challenges to diversity initiatives across the nation.

The Annual Celebration will take place at Colorado College this spring, featuring keynote speeches from notable figures such as author and activist Ta-Nehisi Coates and Board Member Aisha Praught-Leer, a celebrated two-time Olympian. Their presence underscores the importance of resilience and achievement in the Black community, echoing the foundation’s mission to nurture talent among its scholars.

In an environment where support for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives faces heightened scrutiny and opposition, the Sachs Foundation remains steadfast in its 94-year legacy. Founded in 1931 by Henry Sachs in Pikes Peak, Colorado, the Foundation has successfully awarded over $44.6 million to more than 3,300 students, embracing a holistic approach that merges academic achievement with character and financial need.

Ben Ralston, CEO of the Sachs Foundation, articulated the significance of this moment, stating, "This moment belongs to our scholars. Their brilliance, their ambition, and their future. In an era when many institutions are retreating from commitments to equity, we stand firm in our resolve to invest in Black students. It is not merely about providing scholarships; it is about creating opportunities and cultivating a sense of belonging for those often marginalized. We are elated to support an exceptional group of scholars and look forward to their remarkable accomplishments."

The scholarships awarded by the Sachs Foundation are not simply financial gifts; they encompass a wealth of resources designed to guide students in their academic journeys. They represent a commitment to mentorship, leadership development, and access to vital educational resources. The Foundation's comprehensive programming includes initiatives that assist Black Coloradans, such as college and career development resources tailored for students in grades 8-12.

The upcoming Annual Celebration will serve as a critical platform to recognize the accomplishments and journeys of this year’s scholarship recipients, fostering a sense of community and support. With reflections from Coates on the integral role of education, legacy, and liberation, the event stands as a testament to the Foundation’s belief that investing in educational equity is inherently an investment in the future.

Each year, Black residents of Colorado are invited to apply for scholarships between January 1 and March 15. For more details, prospective applicants can visit www.sachsfoundation.org/scholarships.

Supporters wishing to contribute to the Foundation's mission can learn more about donation and partnership opportunities at www.sachsfoundation.org/donate or reach out via email at [email protected].

The Sachs Foundation emphasizes that the pursuit of educational equity resonates beyond scholarships, aiming to build a resilient community of Black leaders committed to driving change and fostering a more equitable society.

As the Sachs Foundation embarks on another chapter in its illustrious history of service to Black students, it remains dedicated to creating an inclusive academic environment where dreams can flourish and futures are forged.