The Manasota Branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History raised approximately $100,000 for the 2026 Manasota Scholarship Program during its inaugural Black History Month Scholarship Luncheon in February at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.
The event brought together scholars, community leaders and supporters to celebrate Black history, academic excellence and the enduring legacy of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, founder of ASALH and the scholar credited with establishing Black History Month. Proceeds from the luncheon will support the Manasota ASALH Scholarship Program, with scholarship awards to be announced in May.
The program featured a conversation with Dr. Maurice J. Hobson, professor of Africana Studies at Georgia State University and lead historian for Omega Psi Phi Fraternity’s latest history book joined by Dr. Jim Stewart, economist, Black history scholar and professor emeritus at Penn State University, for a thoughtful conversation about the role of scholarship in preserving history and strengthening communities.
“The Manasota branch of ASALH has done tremendous work preserving and promoting the Black experience,” Hobson said during the event. “Given its Gulf Coast location and history, I was struck by both the strength and size of this branch. The Scholarship Luncheon celebrated Black life and Black history with energy and purpose, honoring the enduring legacy of Dr. Carter G. Woodson.”
Long-term impact
The luncheon also highlighted the long-term impact of the organization’s scholarship program. One past scholarship recipient, Simone Fletcher, served as the event’s emcee, while another alumna Tiona Sellers – now working at Gulf Coast Community Foundation – addressed attendees, reflecting on how ASALH’s support shaped her educational and professional journey.
Since 2000, Manasota ASALH has awarded more than $700,000 in scholarships to 333 students in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Scholarship recipients for 2026 will be announced at the organization’s annual awards ceremony in May.
“This luncheon was both a celebration and a statement,” said Jada Wright-Greene, executive director of Manasota ASALH. “Our supporters understand that investing in education is investing in the future. The generosity shown here ensures that deserving students will have the resources they need to pursue their dreams.”
For more information about Manasota ASALH, visit ASALH-Manasotafl.org.
Submitted by Su Byron
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Manasota ASALH raises $100,000 for student scholarships
Reporting by Special to the Herald-Tribune, Sarasota Herald-Tribune / Sarasota Herald-Tribune
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