Celebrating Southern Scholars Initiative

We asked our two summer interns, Nianne Rivers and Jorell Banks, and Co-Head of DEI Bre Pressey to reflect on their experience with the Southern Scholars Initiative. The program honors Dr. Doretha Pressey’s legacy of Education, Determination, and Generosity by creating college access, equity, and success for students of color from communities throughout the rural South:

"Being a Southern Scholars student has positively impacted my life in more ways than one. I find comfort in knowing that I have such genuine people in my corner, rooting for my success. I’ve received academic, financial, career, and emotional support since I’ve been in this scholarship program. Southern Scholars has given me many opportunities, including connecting me with my very first internship at C Street Advisory Group. I am truly grateful to be a part of the Southern Scholars program."

Nianne Rivers, Intern, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

"My experience with Southern Scholars has been nothing but amazing. They have really helped me out in more than one way. The scholarship program has afforded me the opportunity to meet people like Jaimee Harrison. It has provided me with resources such as tutoring and mentorship. It has also helped me secure an amazing internship at C Street this summer. I would recommend this program to anyone. It has changed my life."

Jorell Banks, Intern, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

"I am incredibly grateful to the entire c street team for their unwavering support of our Scholars and for all they've done to make Jorell and Nianne's internship experience such a wonderful success!"

Bre Pressey, Co-Head, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion