Annie Mae Carter Burrows
Scholarship

The Annie Mae Carter Burrows Scholarship began as part of the Scholarship Ministry’s Change for Children under the direction of Pastor Kevin White in June 2005.  The program was a comprehensive initiative designed to support elementary-aged children by providing them with school supplies and backpacks at the start of the school year. 

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In 2009, Change for Children was renamed under the direction of Pastor French L. Bryant Jr., to the STARS Program – Starting Tomorrows Achievers Reaching for Success.  In addition to providing school supplies the program was rooted in five foundational pillars to guide students toward becoming well-rounded individuals with the resilience to overcome obstacles. By addressing key aspects of personal growth and development, the STARS Program empowers children to unlock their potential and prepare for a bright future.

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Five Key Points of the STARS Program:

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1. SELF-ESTEEM
   The program encourages children to build a strong sense of self-worth. By fostering confidence and a positive self-image, children are better equipped to face challenges and believe in their ability to succeed.

2. TRADITIONAL VALUES
   Emphasizing core values such as integrity, honesty, responsibility, and perseverance, the STARS Program helps children develop a solid moral foundation. These values are essential for making good decisions and becoming productive members of society.

3. ACADEMICS
   A focus on academic excellence is at the heart of the program. Students are encouraged to develop a love for learning and the discipline to succeed in school. The program provides academic support and resources to ensure students excel in their studies.

4. RESPECT for Others
   Teaching children to respect themselves and others is critical for fostering positive relationships and creating a supportive learning environment. Through the STARS Program, students learn the importance of empathy, kindness, and understanding in their interactions with peers and adults.

5. SERVICE
   The program emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community. Children are encouraged to participate in service projects, which helps them develop a sense of responsibility and a desire to help others in need.

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Impact of the STARS Program:

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Through these key components, the STARS Program aimed to transform the lives of children, enabling them to become confident, respectful, and successful individuals. The program’s holistic approach not only prepared students for academic success but also nurtured their emotional and social development, equipping them with the resilience and mindset needed to overcome future challenges.

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By addressing the needs of the whole child—mind, body, and spirit—the STARS Program opened doors to a brighter future, empowering children to achieve their dreams and contribute positively to society.

 

In 2016 the STARS Program was renamed the “Annie Mae Carter Burrows Scholarship Fund”. Annie Mae Carter-Burrows’ life was an inspiring testament to faith, resilience, and service. Her favorite Bible verse, Proverbs 3:5-6, encapsulated her trust in God’s guidance.

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Her legacy is multifaceted:

• Love for God: Her deep faith in God was central to her life, and she instilled this same love in her children and others.

• Commitment to Education: She understood the power of education, and ensured her children embraced academic excellence, stressing the importance of perfect attendance and involvement in Talented and Gifted programs. Her dedication to education extended to all young people she encountered, always encouraging them to achieve success in the classroom.

• Service to Young People: She devoted countless hours to teaching young people. Whether through Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, or youth camps, she was an unwavering presence in the lives of young people.

Her legacy lives on through the scholarship program established in her honor, preserving her passion for education and young people for generations to come. Her story is one of triumph, service, and unwavering faith, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

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Scholarship Recipients

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2016 Recipients ($500 each):

• Brooke Tucker – Washington Adventist University

• Shaunte Jackson – Cleveland State University

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2017 Recipients ($1500 each):

• David White – Virginia Tech

• Dawn Johnson – The Julliard School

• Brian Johnson – Howard University

 

2021 Recipients ($500 given to teachers for school supplies)

• Shelly Powell

• Crystal Seaborn

• Amber Alston

 

2022 Recipients ($500 each)

• Alexandra Hall

• Jeovane Taylor

• Makayla Johnson

• Khalil Payton

• Christine Mangault

• Malik Turner

• Nakia Johnson

• Jadyn Howard

 

2023 Recipients ($1000 each)

• Nayeli Alvarez

• Destene Banos

• Ziah Berry

• Diana Castro

• Mya Crestwell

• Milan Phllips

• Deborah White

 

2024 Recipients ($500 each):

• Nayeli Alvarez

• Justin Burrows

• Kayla Love

• Diana Castro

• Natalie Vaca-Flores