September 3rd 2023.
Students who were lucky recipients of the Ida B. Wells-Barnett Textbook Fund have expressed their gratitude in a new video. This fund has been a life-changing opportunity for the attendees of Howard and Morgan State University, by alleviating the financial burden of purchasing textbooks.
The video was shared on Facebook through the Fund’s founder and coordinator, Dr. Stacey Patton. Upon viewing the video, she was overwhelmed with emotion. It was not just the one student she had met in person, but multiple people who had benefited from the Fund's generosity.
"At first, I thought I was going to watch a thank you video from one student who had received money from the Ida B Wells Textbook Fund," said Patton. "But, when I clicked the link, I saw that the student had taken his camera around campus and collected thank you messages from other students who had benefited from the Fund. This really touched my heart, to see how many people have been helped by all the generous donations."
As originally reported on BLACK ENTERPRISE, the textbook fund has been life-changing for students. It provides $250 stipends which can be used for more than just textbooks, such as course equipment and software. Applicants are required to submit a form demonstrating need, and allotments are given on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The money for the students is raised through donations, with each semester bringing in around $25,000 to help 70 students. This fall, more than $30,000 was raised, helping even more students.
Within the video, the students shared how the Fund has made a difference in their lives. Valery Jean-Jacques, a junior majoring in television and film at Howard University, expressed her appreciation for the donors.
"I want to take a moment to thank all the donors of the Ida B. Wells Fund," said Valery. "Your generosity has allowed many of us to focus on our studies, rather than worrying about buying textbooks."
Nikkya Taliaferro, a political science major, also gave thanks for the Fund. She shared how it has helped her, since she is independently financially supporting herself through college.
"The Ida B. Wells Book Scholarship has allowed me to buy all my textbooks for the semester," said Nikkya. "It has been a great help, as it takes a lot of pressure off of me. I am so grateful for the donors of the Fund, who have given me the opportunity to continue my college experience."
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