Taraji P. Henson feels indebted to fellow actresses Phylicia Rashad And Debbie Allen.

The sister duo, Rashad and Allen, are graduates of the illustrious Howard University and have gone on to be revered in the entertainment industry. Rashad most recognized for her role as Clair Huxtable on “The Cosby Show” while Allen’s resume includes acting credits and producing staple shows such as “A Different World,” “Scandal,” and “Empire.”

The duo had a large influence on Henson, not only for their influence but also for sewing seeds into her acting dreams. Henson attended Howard University in the 1990s and faced challenges during her junior year while pregnant.

“I really ran out of money. I didn’t know how I was going to finish, but I knew I was going to finish,” Henson said during an interview on the show, “Today with Jenna & Friends.”

Her saving grace would come from the Dr. Andrew Allen Sr. Memorial Scholarship, established by Rashad and Allen in honor of their father, who also graduated from Howard’s School of Dentistry and had a passion for the arts, according to The Dig. The scholarship now pays it forward to Howard University students, such as Henson, seeking acting, singing, and dancing degrees at its Department of Theatre Arts.

 “The fact that she was with child. That just added to it. We said that child is fierce. She’s the one,” Rashad commented on “Today with Jenna & Friends” alongside Henson.

 The scholarship allowed Henson to graduate in 1995. Afterward, she moved to Los Angeles, CA, to secure gigs. Her big break followed in 2001 through “Baby Boy.” Henson is now a decorated actress with credits in “Empire,” “Hidden Figures,” “The Color Purple,” and “Abbott Elementary.”

“I won it six months pregnant, and I was able to finish school. So you and your sister and dad, may he rest in peace, have a huge part of why I’m even where I am,” Henson told Rashad.

Both Henson and Rashad experienced a full-circle moment as they presented this year’s Allen Scholarship recipient, Trinity Garrison, who has showcased exceptional talents in dance, theater, and singing.

“The Dr. Andrew Allen Scholarship plays a vital role by providing our students with the opportunity to fully engage in their artistic passion unfettered by the cost of their education,” said Denise Saunders Thompson, assistant dean for administration of the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts, per The Dig. “This scholarship is not just financial aid; it is an investment of lifelong impact that sets up yet unimaginable opportunities. The Allen Sisters have provided Trinity with a gift of less financial worry. She is more enabled and empowered to be her most full authentic self, inside of her Musical Theatre studies, allowing her talent to flourish and grow.”