Our mission is to advance higher education and improve the lives of community and public service-minded and intellectually gifted African Americans and accelerate their progress into impactful leadership roles and opportunities. Our vision is to cultivate the next generation of transformational leaders who positively impact their communities and blaze new paths in their chosen careers and professions. RBSP Quick Facts: Program founded in December 1996 by Mr. Anthony Pilaro Ron Brown Scholar Fund is a public 501c3 charity RBSP is governed by a Board of Trustees First class of Scholars selected in March 1997 113,000+ applications received over the past 17 years 6,000 applications received on average annually 340 young people have been named Ron Brown Scholars Ninety-nine percent (99%) graduation rate RBS Areas of Interest: 33% STEM, 41% - Humanities, 19% - Business, 7% - Law
Ron Brown Scholar Program的外部链接
485 Hillsdale Drive, Suite 206
US，Virginia，Charlottesville，22901
? American Journey Awards Tonight! ? The celebration begins! We can't wait to honor this year's incredible leaders and connect with our amazing community. ?? Tag @ronbrownscholars on Instagram and use #AJA2025 in your stories! Let's capture the moments together! #AJA2025 #RBSimpact #RonBrownScholarProgram
Honoring Jon Piper (RBS 1998) at AJA 2025! At this year's American Journey Awards on Friday, March 21, we are honored to present Jon Piper (RBS '98) with the American Journey Award for Emerging Leadership—a recognition of his extraordinary contributions to science, technology, and the future of the Ron Brown Scholar Program. As Chief Scientific Officer at MIM Software, Jon has spent nearly two decades at the forefront of image processing innovation in radiology, radiation oncology, and urology. His research and leadership have helped shape cutting-edge medical technologies, earning him recognition as a leader in the field. Beyond his professional achievements, Jon has made a transformational impact on the Ron Brown Scholar community. Through a scholarship endowment funded by Jon, he is ensuring that one new Scholar will be supported every year in perpetuity. His generosity is a testament to his belief in education, opportunity, and the power of paying it forward. Jon's commitment to advancing science while investing in the next generation of leaders is exactly what the American Journey Award for Emerging Leadership represents. Join us in celebrating Jon Piper's contributions to medicine, technology, and the future of Ron Brown Scholars at AJA 2025! AJA tickets are sold out, but you can still join the celebration! Watch for Text to Pledge details during the event to make an impact. #AJA2025 #RonBrownScholarProgram #RBSimpact
Honoring Brennan Gould (RBS 2001) at AJA 2025! At this year's American Journey Awards on Friday, March 21, we are honored to present the Robert B. Binswanger Communitarian Award to Brennan Gould RBS 2001)—a visionary leader whose work exemplifies the power of philanthropy to drive lasting, transformative change. As President & CEO of the Charlottesville Area Community Foundation, Brennan oversees nearly $300 million in assets and distributes over $25 million in grants annually, ensuring that resources directly support community-centered and equity-driven initiatives. Under her leadership, the Foundation has mobilized philanthropy in response to crises, strengthened regional partnerships, and advanced opportunities for historically marginalized communities. Brennan gained national recognition for creating the Heal Charlottesville Fund, which provided direct financial assistance to survivors of the August 2017 white supremacist violence and supported racial equity initiatives. She was awarded the Robert W. Scrivner Award for Creative Grantmaking for this work. Her leadership reflects the values of Dr. Robert Binswanger, who spent nearly two decades mentoring Ron Brown Scholars and championing their aspirations. Brennan's lifelong commitment to community impact, philanthropy, and strategic leadership ensures that Dr. Binswanger's legacy of compassion and service lives on. We can't wait to celebrate Brennan Gould's extraordinary leadership and commitment to building stronger communities at AJA 2025! AJA tickets are sold out, but you can still join the celebration! Watch for Text to Pledge details during the event to make an impact. #AJA2025 #RonBrownScholarProgram #RBSimpact
Honoring Caleb Franklin (RBS 2001) at AJA 2025! At this year's American Journey Awards on Friday, March 21, we are proud to present the Christopher A. Pilaro Fellowship in the Arts Award to Caleb Franklin (RBS 2001)—a trailblazing leader in global entertainment. As the Founder & CEO of Matter Entertainment, Caleb is shaping the future of television and film, producing high-quality content for major platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon. His impact spans the entertainment industry, from his tenure at Creative Artists Agency (CAA)—where he helped launch CAA's operations in India and the Middle East—to his work at HeyHey, a unique fan-celebrity engagement platform featuring some of India's top performers. This award honors Christopher A. Pilaro, the late son of RBSP's founder, Tony Pilaro, recognizing visionaries in the arts who are reshaping culture and storytelling. Caleb's work exemplifies this spirit, bringing global stories to life and expanding creative possibilities worldwide. Join us in celebrating Caleb Franklin's contributions to entertainment and the arts at AJA 2025! AJA tickets are sold out, but you can still join the celebration! Watch for Text to Pledge details during the event to make an impact. #AJA2025 #RonBrownScholarProgram #RBSimpact
? The Countdown to AJA 2025 Begins! ? We are just days away from the American Journey Awards this Friday, March 21, and we couldn't be more excited to celebrate this year's extraordinary honorees—leaders who have shaped industries, uplifted communities, and paved the way for future generations. ?? Lovette Russell – A dedicated philanthropist and community advocate, Lovette has spent her career championing education, healthcare, and social impact initiatives, transforming lives through her service and leadership. ?? Michael Russell, Sr. – As CEO of H.J. Russell & Company, Michael has continued a legacy of excellence in business and real estate development, demonstrating the power of vision, innovation, and perseverance in shaping communities. ?? Cecilia A. Conrad, Ph.D. – A trailblazing economist and managing director of the MacArthur Foundation's 100&Change and Lever for Change, Dr. Conrad is a force in advancing global philanthropy, social change, and access to opportunity. These honorees exemplify the spirit of AJA—bold, visionary, and deeply committed to making a lasting impact. Join us as we celebrate their journeys and the legacy they continue to build. Tickets to AJA are sold out, but if you still want to support us at the event, keep an eye out for Text to Pledge info during the event on Friday. #AJA2025 #RonBrownScholarProgram #RBSimpact
We love seeing our Scholars reaching out and supporting their community. Way to go Isabella Green (RBS 2024) ????????????
The Stem Well (Founder and CEO) | Yale University ‘28 | Ron Brown Scholar | Thrive Scholar | Princeton Prize in Race Relations '23 | Million Girls Moonshot Flight Crew '23 | Disney Dreamers Academy ‘22
“I have learned that our greatest blessings come when we are able to improve the lives of others, and this is especially true when those others are ...poor or in need.” -Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter On Tuesday, January 7, 2025, just before the end of my winter break (it is almost time for me to return to Yale University), I donated multicultural dolls, stuffed animals, art supplies, games, toys, and skincare products to Cleveland Clinic Children’s on behalf of The Stem Well. This donation will support approximately 50 pediatric cancer patients navigating their treatment journeys. Soon after delivery, the incredible care team at Cleveland Clinic shared a heartwarming photo (included below) of 11-year-old Chaife Jackson with the cuddly stuffed animal and 3-in-1 Lego set he received from The Stem Well. Witnessing Chaife's joy is a profound reminder of the impact that non-profits like ours can have on vulnerable populations. Our mission to reduce the impact of cultural and socioeconomic disparities in pediatric cancer prevention and care and enhance the lives of children battling cancer is not just a goal; it is a commitment to building and maintaining community partnerships to extend kindness during some of life's toughest challenges. This donation was particularly meaningful as it coincided with our third anniversary (three years and it feels like we just got started). What began in high school as a vision to create a sustainable organization is now a reality. As a first-year college student, I am proud to confirm ongoing support for our initial hospital partner, Cleveland Clinic, alongside other healthcare organizations. Knowing that our efforts are contributing to brighter moments for young children with cancer and their families reaffirms the importance of our work and the lasting power of compassion in action. Thank you to our donors and hospital partners, Cleveland Clinic Children’s and UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO COMER CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL; we remain grateful! #communityservice #pediatriccancer #preventionandcare #healthequity #healthcare
Excited to see our Scholars making an impact in the business world. Congrats Folake Dosu (RBS 2007)! #RBSimpact
Marketing Executive | Brand, Strategy, Audience Development for Mission-Driven Brands | MBA | Founder & Host, Trivia For The Culture | ex-Disney
In 2023, I was tapped for an Employee Spotlight at Disney. Three months later, my role was cut in a reorg. Now, hello Forbes. ? What you often hear in the entrepreneurial tale are the announcements, all the big news. But it's the quieter moments in-between where you derive resilience. If you've seen my posts, you might've seen me share about Trivia For The Culture. I didn’t need my MBA to know that unless your name is Ken Jennings, you’re not living on trivia hosting alone.??? But I've been less forthright on my marketing consulting practice, which I have quietly built simultaneously (ask me about it! :) Not because of any reluctance to embrace that path -- I love it -- but because I feared being misinterpreted: ?? Would this nix potential salaried opportunities down the line? ?? Would my penchant for entrepreneurship be seen as a liability? ?? Can I even *really* do this? In the Forbes article (linked in the comments), I stress the importance of stating your needs as an entrepreneur. What I'd also add is that this approach can be introspective, too. The unknown can be scary, but not acting on what you know is?a bigger fright. Knowing your career needs means knowing what you're about (values), what you've achieved (experience), what you're capable of (skills) and what matters to you (purpose). Asking myself the right questions has led to this moment - to meaningful work, community building, networking and more. I'm excited to see where else this philosophy takes me. Moving forward, I'll also share more along the way. ?? For now, check out this wonderful piece written by Megan J Bruneau, M.A. Psych (thank you!) and get insights from the 7 other incredible Black women interviewed: Christina Blacken, Domonique Worship, Esosa Edosomwan, Kalyn Romaine, KK Hart, Uchenna Ngwudo, Yevedzo (Yeve) C.
?? AJA 2025 is ONE WEEK AWAY! ?? The countdown is on, and we couldn't be more excited to welcome you to an unforgettable evening of celebration, connection, and inspiration. This year, we are thrilled to have Ron Brown Scholar Alum Chaz Beasley (RBS 2004) as our host! From his work in structured finance at Katten to his time serving in the North Carolina House of Representatives, Chaz embodies the leadership, excellence, and commitment to service that define the Ron Brown Scholar community. Get ready for a night filled with powerful moments, incredible honorees, and a reconnecting with the Ron Brown Community. Learn more about The American Journey Awards on our website: www.ronbrown.org/aja2025 #AJA2025 #RonBrownScholarProgram #RBSimpact
The journey to college can feel ??—applications, scholarships, essays, and choosing the right school. Many students like you don't know where to start or who to turn to for guidance. Without the right support, you may miss key opportunities that could shape your future. ?? ?? Our Guided Pathway Support Program (GPS) is a FREE online advising community designed to help you confidently navigate the college process. ? Get expert guidance from counselors, college partners, and the Ron Brown Scholar community ? Find scholarships, leadership programs, and summer opportunities to make you a stronger applicant ? Join a supportive network of Black students, mentors, and advisors who've been in your shoes Don't go through the college process alone—let GPS help you every step of the way. ?? Sign up today and start building your path to college success! ?? www.ronbrown.org/gps #RBSGPS #RonBrownScholarProgram #RBSimpact
At the Ron Brown Scholar Program, we take pride in seeing our Scholars influence the future and illuminate the past. Aaliyah Williams (RBS 1998) has done just that as a producer on Black Barbie, a documentary that brings an important cultural story to the forefront. The film won Outstanding Documentary (Television) at the 56th Annual NAACP Image Awards—a well-deserved honor for a movie that explores the power of representation and redefines history. Directed by Lagueria Davis and produced in partnership with Shondaland, Black Barbie explores the creation of the first Black Barbie doll and the power of representation in shaping culture. Aaliyah's dedication to uplifting untold stories is a testament to the impact Ron Brown Scholars continue to make across industries. Read more about Aaliyah's work on Black Barbie on our website https://lnkd.in/evpYCwnc #RBSimpact #RonBrownScholarProgram #BlackBarbie