We recently connected with Keiona Graham and have shared our conversation below.
Keiona, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about serving the underserved.
African American students often face systemic barriers to success, including racism, discrimination, and lack of access to educational resources. These barriers can make it more difficult for African American students to succeed academically, graduate from high school, and go on to pursue higher education.
Support a Scholar recognizes the unique challenges faced by African American students and seeks to provide support services and resources that can help address these challenges. For example, the organization provides academic tutoring, mentoring, and college readiness programs to help African American students succeed in school and prepare for college. We also provide scholars with the necessary tools to strengthen life skills such as: conflict resolution, problem solving and critical thinking. These services and resources can make a significant difference in the lives of African American students, who may not have access to such resources otherwise.
In addition, Support a Scholar is focused on addressing the achievement gap between African American students and their peers. This gap can be seen in a variety of areas, including standardized test scores, high school graduation rates, and college enrollment rates. By providing support services and resources that are specifically tailored to the needs of African American students, Support a Scholar is working to narrow this gap and create opportunities for success.
Overall, Support a Scholar’s focus on creating advantages for African American students through student support services and resources is a clear indication that the organization is dedicated to serving an underserved community. By providing these services and resources, Support a Scholar is working to address the unique challenges faced by African American students and create opportunities for success that might not otherwise be available.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
If you would have told me as a 20 year accounting professional that I would become a founder of a nonprofit organization, I would not believe you!
In 2015, I was laid off from my job and began extreme couponing and stockpiling everyday essentials. Extreme couponing became my full time hobby and I had an abundance of household and personal care products. I used social media to connect with followers, friends and family and asked a simple question “Do you know anyone in college that need assistance with personal care items?” The responses started pouring in and I became very busy with arranging, boxing and shipping products to college students attending universities. What started as a way to support my own family quickly evolved into Support a Scholar Inc. (SAS). In 2020,SAS extended its program to include student support services.
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on education at all levels, from pre-kindergarten through college. The economic losses will be more deeply felt by disadvantaged students. The impact affected every household around the world. There was an immediate disruption of traditional learning methods, resulting in the massive transition to remote and distance learning. A significant challenge has been addressing the digital divide particularly in low-income areas. Students and teachers had a limited learning/teaching capacity and caused a mental and emotional strain for everyone.
As students resume their education and return school, the high cost of disrupted learning will have an impact for years to come. SAS is committed to close the gap by being a community resource and support the school system in our local community. Our goal is to bridge the gap between home and school by providing student support services and assist with post-secondary education selection and offer scholars a safe space to discuss challenges they face every day while on their academic journey.
Our program focuses on various aspects of post-secondary selections such as 4-year universities, workforce, entrepreneurship, Military, and vocational/trade school. The C.O.R.E program is designed to maximize student success by identifying student pathways to develop targeted interventions and support strategies that help students reach their goals. Our workshops and activities are tailored to acquaint students with career options. We provide the resources to assist with basic college requirements, course selection, financial aid, scholarships, and FAFSA.
So far, we have searched and have yet to find another organization in our community that is committed to promoting equity and inclusion in education and the community. By focusing on African American students who may face systemic barriers and discrimination, SAS help promote greater fairness and justice for all members of the community.
We are proud to help strengthen the community by engaging with students, families, and community organizations. Through partnerships and collaborations, We work to improve the lives of African American students and families, as well as contribute to the development of a strong and vibrant community.
Ultimately, the work that SAS does to support African American students have a positive impact on society as a whole. By empowering these students with the resources and skills they need to succeed, SAS is building a more diverse, equitable, and prosperous society.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
No one was exempt from the unexpected turn of events that was brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. When we were all forced to take cover and quarantine. At the time, I had no idea of the true impact it would have on our youth. It was during that time I had to pivot from the working mom that passively listened to the routine question “how was your day?” I was forced to witness how the isolation affected each of my children differently. My 20 year old, was in her freshman year of college and enjoying her newly found independence. My teenager received all of her social interaction while attending school, and my 8 year old was an energetic kid that thrived on being outside on his skateboard with this friends. Suddenly, we were forced into the house all day everyday with zero physical or social contact with anyone that lived out side of our home.
The pandemic forced many schools to switch to remote learning or hybrid models, which disrupted the traditional classroom experience for students. This change in learning environment affected all of my children. The pandemic also caused increased stress and anxiety. There was Increased social isolation and loneliness, as they are not able to participate in normal social activities with peers or family members. This isolation lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, and stress.
The positives were not ignored. As a family we learned how to be creative with spending time and sharing memories with loved ones. We had virtual parties, hosted drive by and drive thru events, hung out with neighbors in the back yard on our respective sides of the gate. We were forced to pivot from our norm because the pandemic had forced a new norm.
The pandemic brought an increased attention to mental health and the importance of self-care. This has also led to increased awareness and access to mental health resources and support services.
Overall, while the COVID-19 pandemic has had many negative effects, it has also led to some positive outcomes and accelerated changes in various areas of my life.
Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?
Managing a team and maintaining high morale requires strong leadership, effective communication, and a positive work environment. By prioritizing these factors, you can build a strong and motivated team that is committed to achieving success. As a small business owner I’ve learned that frequent and clear communication is important. It is important to communicate with your team regularly and transparently, providing updates on projects and plans, and addressing any concerns or questions they may have. Encourage open communication and active listening, so team members feel heard and valued. Also, set clear expectations and goals: Make sure your team understands their roles and responsibilities and what is expected of them. Set clear and achievable goals that are measurable and aligned with the overall objectives of the organization. Celebrate team accomplishments and progress towards these goals.
Big or small, my team and I celebrate every accomplishment. One time Chipotle donated gift cards to our organization to giveaway to the scholars and you would’ve thought we hit the lottery! 
Contact Info:
- Website: www.supportascholarinc.org
- Instagram: supportascholarinc
- Facebook: Support a Scholar
Image Credits
Bravado’s Creed Photography