Dreams Come True Through ARC Scholarships
by Rev. Erika Rembert Smith, Chair, Anti-Racism Committee & Pastor, Washington Shores Presbyterian, Orlando
“The American Dream” is an ideal longed for by the masses. Wikipedia defines this “dream” as the national ethos of the United States.[1] This sentiment conveys the idea that every person has the freedom and opportunity to succeed and attain a better life. Originally, the emphasis of “The American Dream” was on democracy, liberty, and equality. Today, the emphasis has been expanded to include achieving material wealth and upward mobility. While the meaning of this term has morphed over time, the desire for a better life has not.
In order to succeed and achieve a better life, by society’s standards, one must have particular credentials that include diplomas, degrees and certifications that come with continuing education. In order to earn the necessary qualifications, a cost must be paid. This cost is paid in time, thought and money. Unfortunately, cost prohibits people from particular sectors of society from earning the certifications that set the stage for one to excel.
The wealth gap in this country continues to keep people from particular demographics that include ethnic background and socio-economic status from earning the necessary tools that lead to success. It is the accessibility to dollars, not a lack of desire, that keeps some people from achieving the dreams of their heart.
The Anti-Racism Committee (ARC) of Central Florida Presbytery is committed to following in the footsteps of Jesus by doing what we can to level the playing field for all. The ARC received nine (9) applications from students that represent seven (7) congregations in the Presbytery. The ARC Scholarship was made possible through funds allotted to the ARC from the legacy fund of the former St. Marks Presbyterian Church (USA), a congregation committed to justice for all of God’s people. As a result of the generosity of the faithful people who served God through St. Marks, ARC was able to award $1,000 scholarships to each of the applicants.
The ARC continues to give thanks and glory to God for the ministry and witness of our siblings in Christ who faithfully served God, their congregation and the community through the ministry at St. Marks. Their ministry continues to touch and impact the lives of many.
We extend our congratulations and give thanks to God for each of the recipients of the 2024-2025 ARC Scholarship Award while offering best wishes and blessings for a successful academic year!
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Dream#:~:text=%22The%20American%20Dream%22%20is%20a,had%20different%20meanings%20over%20time.
In order to succeed and achieve a better life, by society’s standards, one must have particular credentials that include diplomas, degrees and certifications that come with continuing education. In order to earn the necessary qualifications, a cost must be paid. This cost is paid in time, thought and money. Unfortunately, cost prohibits people from particular sectors of society from earning the certifications that set the stage for one to excel.
The wealth gap in this country continues to keep people from particular demographics that include ethnic background and socio-economic status from earning the necessary tools that lead to success. It is the accessibility to dollars, not a lack of desire, that keeps some people from achieving the dreams of their heart.
The Anti-Racism Committee (ARC) of Central Florida Presbytery is committed to following in the footsteps of Jesus by doing what we can to level the playing field for all. The ARC received nine (9) applications from students that represent seven (7) congregations in the Presbytery. The ARC Scholarship was made possible through funds allotted to the ARC from the legacy fund of the former St. Marks Presbyterian Church (USA), a congregation committed to justice for all of God’s people. As a result of the generosity of the faithful people who served God through St. Marks, ARC was able to award $1,000 scholarships to each of the applicants.
The ARC continues to give thanks and glory to God for the ministry and witness of our siblings in Christ who faithfully served God, their congregation and the community through the ministry at St. Marks. Their ministry continues to touch and impact the lives of many.
We extend our congratulations and give thanks to God for each of the recipients of the 2024-2025 ARC Scholarship Award while offering best wishes and blessings for a successful academic year!
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Dream#:~:text=%22The%20American%20Dream%22%20is%20a,had%20different%20meanings%20over%20time.