“I chose to be a psychology major and minor in music because I have always held a passion for both music and helping people in need. As a recipient of the 1880 Society scholarship, I am able to pay my tuition, and purchase needed supplies to meet the high costs of a college education and concentrate on achieving my goals.”

Naja Webb, 1880 Scholar
Sophomore
Hometown: Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Quinshala Ford

Leon E. Valdry Scholar
Sophomore
Nursing
Hometown: Baton Rouge, Louisiana

“I strive to make a positive impact in the lives of others, and I enjoy making a difference in the lives of those in need. As a nurse, I can do all this and more. I plan to pursue a master of science in nursing, and one day, become a family nurse practitioner. The Leon Valdry academic scholarship brings me closer to an exciting future.”

Leon E. Valdry is a 1957 technical engineering graduate of Southern University. He is president and CEO of Holly Park Plaza in Inglewood, California. Valdry, is a long-time supporter of the Southern University College of Business and is a member of the Eighteen-Eighty Society P.B.S. Pinchback Circle, University Club, and the Felton Grandison Clark Endowed Fellowship.

Christian Washington

1880 Scholar
Sophomore
Major: Mathematics and Physics
Hometown: Monroe, Louisiana

“As everyone knows, paying for college can be a struggle. I am grateful to receive the 1880 Society. This award allows me to focus solely on my educational studies without financial worries. I am grateful for the help that I have received from the Southern University System Foundation and for the investment that the Eighteen-Eighty Society has made towards the success of the next generation of students at Southern University. I will, without hesitation, financially support Southern University in the future.”

The Eighteen-Eighty Scholarship Fund provides significant scholarship and educational assistance for high academic achievers.