UPDATED: February 16, 2022

CINCINNATI, Ohio (June 21, 2021) - Eighteen young people were honored June 17 during the 2021 HEMI Scholars of Excellence Celebration at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. The young people received nearly $60,000 in scholarships! Congratulations to each of the scholars for demonstrating resilience, determination and commitment to higher education.

The Higher Education Mentoring Initiative pairs mentors with foster children to help them graduate high school and move on to some post-graduate education, whether it be college, trade school or the military. With a mentor’s help, HEMI youth learn the value of education and stay on track to achieving academic goals and setting themselves up for a better life. The program operates through a partnership with Hamilton County Job and Family Services, United Way of Greater Cincinnati and Found Village.

Thank you to each of the mentors who help young people reach their academic and life goals. Thank you also to the HEMI community partners: Cincinnati State Technical and Community College; Found Village; Great Oaks Career Campuses; Hamilton County; Hamilton County Job and Family Services; the Higher Education Mentoring Initiative; Mount St. Joseph University; OhioMeansJobs.com; Peoples Church; United Way of Greater Cincinnati; and the University of Cincinnati.

The celebration was made possible with participation and contributions from Blossoms Florist; Bruce Jeffery; Busken Bakery; Elegant Fare Catering; Hank Stephens Experience Band; Faith Daniels; Harmony Project; LaTia Kemp; National Underground Railroad Freedom Center; Ohio Association of Garden Clubs; RoSho Awards and Graphics; and Say Cheese Photo Booths.