The Laura Skinner Gilliams Healthy Education Scholarship Fund was established in 2019 to provide support to those furthering their education in the fields of health, fitness, wellness, and nutrition. Recipients will be selected through an annual scholarship application process with specific criteria and an application deadline. Recipients are Black and Brown and ages 16 and up. The scholarship is not limited to a higher education program but can go towards a certification, license, college degree, or continuing education in the aforementioned fields of study.

About Laura Skinner Gilliams

The first African American School Nurse in the New Haven Public School District; Trustee of Community Baptist Church; Member (Delta Dear) of Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority, Inc; Distinguished Past Grand Worthy Matron of Eureka Chapter Order of the Eastern Star, and member of The Black Nurses Association of CT

Laura (Momma) believed that a strong support system informed by uplifting socialization and connection was central to one’s physical wellness. She engaged in organizations, causes, and alliances aimed at effecting positive change in Newhallville and beyond, believing that the vitality of the community required sustained attention to every member’s physical, emotional, intellectual, mental, and spiritual well-being.

THE BLACKSTAR FUND

About the fund