Shirley Chisholm Scholarship
“Shirley Chisholm was my mentor and friend. As the first African American elected to the U.S. Congress and the first woman to seriously run for president of the United States, Congresswoman Chisholm was a catalyst for change who inspired an entire generation to engage in progressive, coalition politics. East Bay College Fund will continue that legacy locally by establishing a scholarship in her name. The four-year, $16,000 SHIRLEY CHISHOLM SCHOLARSHIP will benefit a local youth who has an interest in public service and will pair the youth with an adult mentor.”
Congresswoman Barbara Lee, February 2005
Congresswoman Barbara Lee thus publicly announced the creation of an East Bay College Fund “Great Expectations Scholarship” honoring Shirley Chisholm, at a memorial tribute and screening of Chisholm’s life earlier this year. Significant contributions to the Shirley Chisholm Scholarship were made by East Bay College Fund, Clorox Company Foundation, Port of Oakland, Wells Fargo Bank, and the A. Philip Randolph Institute. Many East Bay individuals donated smaller amounts. The hope is that these same and new donors will continue to support annually this Great Expectations scholarship in honor of Ms. Chisholm.