Velena Smith Johnson Book Stipend Scholarship 2026 Application Form

Applicant Eligibility Guidelines

Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

1. Be a current undergraduate or graduate student enrolled at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in Louisiana.
2. Demonstrate a strong record of leadership and community volunteerism, including:
   
   1. Participation in non–school-sponsored community activities, and
   2. Involvement in extracurricular activities.
3. Be an active college student at the time of application.
4. Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
5. Submit two (2) letters of recommendation specifically written for the
   Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Nu Gamma Omega Chapter Scholarship Program.
   1. Address: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated
      Nu Gamma Omega Chapter Post Office Box 4726
      Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70821

Application Submission Instructions

• All applications and supporting documents must be submitted through this online application.
• Applicants should upload all required documents directly within this form.
• Documents should not be sent separately unless explicitly requested.

Application Deadline

• All applications and supporting documents must be received by March 29, 2026.
• Late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted.

Official or Unofficial Transcript
If your official transcript cannot be uploaded, it may be sent by a school official to akangovsjscholarship@gmail.com from an official institutional email address.

This essay must be 500 Words

Choose one of the following topics:

The Impact of an HBCU Education on My Future
Describe how attending a Historically Black College or University has influenced your personal identity, academic or career goals, and commitment to service, leadership, or community impact.

Overcoming Barriers to Educational Success
Discuss challenges you have faced in your pursuit of higher education and explain how this book stipend will support your continued academic progress and success.

Literacy, Knowledge, and the Advancement of Black Excellence
Reflect on the importance of literacy and access to knowledge in Black history and society, and discuss how education and learning have shaped your own academic journey.

Activism and Advocacy: Using My Voice to Create Change
Describe your involvement in community service, advocacy, or social justice efforts and explain how these experiences have influenced your values, leadership, or sense of responsibility to others.

I understand that the Scholarship Committee may request additional information, including a personal interview, to make a decision on my application. I agree that if this application is accepted and I receive a scholarship award, I will be bound by the terms and conditions of the award. If I am selected for this scholarship, I agree to provide a copy of my official transcript . I understand that scholarship funds may only be applied to offset financial obligations that I have incurred or reasonably expect to incur for book expenses during the academic year.

I further understand that I am responsible for any tax liability incurred because of this award. I certify that the statements that I have provided on this application are true and correct and are given for obtaining a Velena Smith Johnson Book Stipend scholarship. I authorize Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Nu Gamma Omega Chapter Velena Smith Johnson Local Initiative
Committee to verify the statements contained herein and I understand that all personal information contained on this application will be held in confidence by the Scholarship Selection Committee.

I certify that all information I have provided on this form is true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I agree to give proof of the information on this application if requested. I give permission to the selection committee to review information on this form, my transcripts, and any additional supporting documentation submitted as part of this application. I give permission for the selection committee to contact high school and/or college officials for additional academic information. If chosen for scholarship book stipend award, I agree to provide proof of GPA to the committee at each semester/quarter break in order for the committee to determine future eligibility. I further agree to submit a written essay to be published on the value of the service or another associated topic relevant to my academic pursuits.