Greater Washington Urban League and Thursday Network Announce Student Scholarship Opportunity

Scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $8,000 available for high school seniors and undergrads in DC, Prince George's, and Montgomery County

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Greater Washington Urban League (GWUL), in partnership with its young professionals' auxiliary, Thursday Network, has launched the 'I Empower' Student Scholarship program. The annual scholarship will award multiple scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $8,000 to both high school seniors and current undergraduate students residing in or attending school in Washington, D.C., Prince George's County, MD, or Montgomery County, MD. Eligible applicants must demonstrate academic achievement and financial need.

Why it matters

The scholarship program aims to empower the next generation of leaders by providing not only financial support, but also guidance and resources to help students thrive. Since the program's inception, GWUL and Thursday Network have distributed over $2.1 million in scholarship assistance to hundreds of young leaders pursuing college and university degrees.

The details

To be eligible, applicants must reside in or attend school in the qualified service area and complete an online application, submit proof of financial need, provide academic transcripts, essays, letters of recommendation, and a brief video statement. Scholarship funds will be disbursed directly to the recipient's school bursar or student account for tuition payment for the Fall 2026 term.

  • The application deadline is March 2, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. EST.
  • Candidates will be notified on March 16, 2026.

The players

Greater Washington Urban League (GWUL)

A nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering communities and changing lives through advocacy, education, and programs focused on economic empowerment, education and youth development, health and quality of life, and civic engagement.

Thursday Network

The young professionals' auxiliary of the Greater Washington Urban League, comprised of emerging leaders from the D.C. metropolitan area who focus on community service, civic engagement, leadership development, and advancing the mission of GWUL.

Kimberly Corbin

Chief Administrative Financial Officer of the Greater Washington Urban League.

Angeline Jefferson

President of Thursday Network.

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What they’re saying

“We see scholarships as more than financial support. It's a continuation of our work to empower the next generation of leaders.”

— Kimberly Corbin, Chief Administrative Financial Officer, Greater Washington Urban League

“We're committed to empowering young scholars by providing not only financial support, but also guidance and resources that help them thrive.”

— Angeline Jefferson, President of Thursday Network

The takeaway

This scholarship program demonstrates the Greater Washington Urban League and Thursday Network's commitment to investing in the education and empowerment of the next generation of leaders in the DC metropolitan area, providing both financial support and guidance to help students succeed.