The Epsilon Epsilon Sigma Alumni Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. recently awarded scholarships to three local seniors. Founded at Howard University in 1914, the Phi Beta Sigma’s motto is “Culture For Service and Service For Humanity”.
Today, 46 years after establishing roots in Seattle, Phi Beta Sigma has blossomed into an organization of leaders here in the Pacific Northwest.
“As leaders, we understand the importance of education within our community. It is with this understanding that we have pledge to support the young people in this area through financial assistance and mentorship,” read a statement released by Phi Beta Sigma about their scholarship recipients. “This year, it is with great honor that we recognize and reward three outstanding young men for their scholastic achievements.”
The 2014 scholarship recipients are:
Jaylon Bond, a graduate of TAF Academy in Federal Way, earned a 3.91 GPA and was awarded the Melvin Minnis Scholarship. He will be attending Howard University in the fall and plans to major in Biology and minor in Chemistry. Through an internship at the Fred Hutchinson Research Center, Bond has worked in a research lab for three years sequencing DNA, cloning bacteria and isolating genes. He hopes to become a full-fledged biochemist and return to the Hutch where he will advocate and raise funds to expand the work done in the research center.
Kenai Brazier, a graduate of Federal Way High School, earned a 3.16 GPA and was awarded the David Davidson Scholarship. Brazier will be attending Cornish College of the Arts in the fall and plans to focus on graphic design. He hopes his artwork will awaken a multitude of reactions in those who view his work. Brazier’s current work has already been chosen for display at the Seattle Art Museum and the Tacoma Museum of Glass. One of his designs has garnered a Golden Key Winner in the Western Region Scholastic Young Artist Competition.
Devin Pegues, a graduate of Federal Way High School, earned a 3.85 GPA and was awarded the Emil Pitre Scholarship. Pegues will be attending the University of Washington in the fall and plans to major in Electrical Engineering, a dream that started at the age of ten. Pegues says that his inspiration to pursue electrical engineering affords the chance to represent the traditionally under-represented people of color in this field of study. His long term goal is to prove that people of color can be successful in science, engineering
