The legacy of Chadwick A. Boseman lives on.
Variety reports that Netflix has just announced the Chadwick A. Boseman Scholarship at the late actor’s alma mater, Howard University.
The Chadwick A. Boseman Memorial Scholarship will be geared toward incoming students at the historically Black university’s College of Fine Arts. As previously reported by AfroTech, the newly reestablished college was named after Boseman in May of 2021. The four-year scholarship is worth a whopping $5.4 million and will cover the full cost of university tuition.
“It is with immense pleasure and deep gratitude that we announce the creation of an endowed scholarship in honor of alumnus, Chadwick Boseman, whose life and contributions to the arts continues to inspire,” said Howard University President Wayne A.I. Frederick, M.D. in an official statement. “This scholarship embodies Chadwick’s love for Howard, his passion for storytelling, and his willingness to support future generations of Howard students. I am thankful for the continuous support and partnership of Chadwick’s wife, Mrs. Simone Ledward Boseman, and to Netflix for this important gift.”
During the inaugural round of scholarships this fall, one recipient will be named in each class. Then, moving forward, the fund will be distributed to an incoming freshman on a yearly basis.
Students eligible for the scholarship should exemplify exceptional skills in the arts and demonstrate financial needs. The priority will go toward students studying dramatic arts who showcase Boseman’s values such as a drive for excellence, leadership, respect, empathy and passion.
The “Get On Up” actor’s widow expressed her full support of the Chadwick A. Boseman Memorial Scholarship.
“Many exemplary artists are not afforded the opportunity to pursue higher learning, we hope to support as many students as possible by removing the financial barrier to education,” continued Ledward-Boseman in the statement. “This endowment represents Chad’s devotion to the craft, his compassion for others, and his desire to support future storytellers. My deepest thanks to Ted Sarandos, Scott Stuber, and our family at Netflix for their generous investment into the education of all present and future Boseman Scholars, and to President Wayne Frederick, Dean Phylicia Rashad, and Mr. David Bennett for their partnership and continued commitment to Chad’s legacy at Howard.”
The first recipients of the award include Sarah Long, a freshman in musical theatre; Shawn Smith, a sophomore studying acting; Janee Ferguson, a junior in theatre arts administration; and Deirdre Dunkin, a senior studying dance.
