TPI College Success Program Alumni Story Series
Part Two: Akua’s Story
Well-designed scholarship and college success programs can create opportunities that last a lifetime. This series highlights the experiences of TPI-managed scholarship and college success program alumni whose lives and futures were shaped by philanthropic investments in their education.
When Akua first heard about the Elizabeth and Barets O. Benjamin Foundation’s Scholarship Program, she didn’t yet understand the full weight of what it would mean for her future. Designed and managed by TPI, and now in its 10th year of operation, the program invites selected grantee organizations to nominate students for whom scholarship support can make a meaningful difference. Nominated by a youth development program focused on empowering young women in New Jersey, Akua saw the opportunity as both an honor and a practical step forward.
At the time, the scholarship meant something immediate and tangible: easing the financial burden of college. Growing up in a first-generation, low-income household, Akua always knew she wanted to attend college, but navigating the path was far from straightforward. “I wanted to break that generational curse,” she shared, reflecting on her early desire to go to college.
Determined to create opportunities for herself, Akua immersed herself in extracurricular and pre-college programs throughout high school. When it came time to choose a college, practical considerations and long-term thinking guided her decision. Rutgers University stood out not only for its strong academic offerings, but because the scholarship support from the Benjamin Foundation would allow her to minimize costs while maximizing opportunity.
For Akua, the scholarship wasn’t just about getting tuition assistance. It was about gaining stability, dignity, and the freedom to focus on her growth. The Benjamin Foundation filled critical gaps, significantly reducing her financial burden and even providing a laptop and additional financial support through a Flex Fund set up to offer additional flexible support during the COVID-19 pandemic. “These are things I don’t take lightly,” she emphasized. The Foundation created the Flex Fund to support remote learning and other needs of students during the pandemic. After the pandemic, remaining funds in the Flex Fund have enabled scholarship recipients to access enrichment opportunities and obtain other support to enhance their college experience.
In a higher education landscape where many students must balance multiple jobs, Akua was able to prioritize her academics, internships, and community involvement. Instead of working long hours to stay afloat, she could fully engage in the college experience socially and academically, while building a résumé that would shape her future.
Equally important was the sense of care the Foundation provided. Unlike traditional scholarships, the support didn’t end after a check was written. Through the Flex Fund, the program provided support for a pre-requisite course for the nursing program that Akua was considering pursuing post-graduation. “That’s something I will always cherish,” she said.
At Rutgers, Akua was able to open doors she hadn’t imagined would be possible. She had before her a plethora of research opportunities and internships, along with a newfound confidence to pursue advanced study. Akua was able to graduate early, and with a manageable loan burden. She is now completing a master’s degree in public policy.
Through her experience, Akua has developed a more nuanced understanding of what it means to give back. To her, it is not just about financial contributions; it’s about timing, trust, and consistency. The Benjamin Foundation’s support came at critical moments, allowing her to stay on track, take academic risks, and ultimately succeed on her own terms. That kind of support creates ripple effects not only in individual lives, but across communities.
Akua’s college graduation portrait.
“Scholarships like this change students’ lives. You’re not just creating opportunities — you’re investing in the future generation.”
Looking back, Akua offers simple but powerful guidance to students navigating similar paths: “Take a deep breath, dream big, and pursue what inspires you.” For her, success looked like being able to align her ambitions with her passion to make an impact. That mindset carried her from uncertainty in high school to a clear purpose in graduate school.
“I always tell people that if it weren’t for the Benjamin Foundation, I don’t know what I would be doing. Knowing that there are programs out there to help college students has made my life easier.”
Akua’s story is a testament to what happens when scholarships are paired with human-centered care and flexible support. Support from the Benjamin Foundation didn’t just help her attend college; it allowed her to thrive and continue investing in her future.
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Akua’s story is part of a series of TPI Scholarship & College Success Program alumni stories. This series highlights the experiences of TPI-managed scholarship and college success program alumni whose lives and futures were shaped by philanthropic investments in their education. Stay tuned in to our blog for more!
Cover photo credit: Jacob Wackerhausen
