An investment in knowledge pays the best return
Making an Impact
The Women's League for Minority Education has provided almost 50 years of service to the local community. As individuals, parents, and neighbors, we have willingly accepted the challenge of creating a positive environment in which our children are free to flourish and to pursue their dreams. It is our belief that in order to achieve this end, a quality education is essential—a right that should be afforded to everyone.
Each year, in addition to providing scholarships, we recognize members of our community who have made significant contributions to this vision. Below is a partial list of some of our honorees who have distinguished themselves in their careers. Visit our site often to view other recipients making a difference.
Dr. Theresa Powell
State Rep Harry Lewis
Dr. William Bailey
Women's League for Minority Education and Sandy Simmons have been a support for our community, my daughter, and me. In 1989, I was awarded a Book Grant from the organization which allowed me to purchase all of my textbooks my freshman year. In 2008-2009, Women's League was a major sponsor of Scott Middle School where I was principal. Its support enabled us to take 47 students to President Obama's Inauguration. In addition, in 2014 my daughter Brittney received a Book Grant.
These are reasons why I currently serve as a member of Women's League for Minority Education and aspire to help as many young students to achieve their dreams.
As a life-long resident of Coatesville, Dr. Bailey stated, "He would like to walk with kings, but never lose the common touch." He is a 1971 graduate of Coatesville Area Senior High, a 1975 graduate of Shippensburg University, a 1986 graduate of West Chester University earning his Master of Education in Counseling degree, a 1996 recipient of Principal's Certification from Penn State University, and a 2007 graduate of Wilmington University with a Doctorate in Education.
Women's League for Minority Education recognized his achievements in earning the highest pinnacle of a degree in his educational career and want to encourage our youth to emulate his accomplishments.
According to State Representative Lewis, "As most of you know, I've come a mighty long way from humble beginnings, strife and struggles, just like many of you. Early on, family was everything and families in our community collaborated and shared responsibilities."
"My early career as a teacher, coach, and advocate for Coatesville youth all contributed to my views and my values. Working at the community level made a difference in how I see the world."
Women's League for Minority Education recognized him for his educational service to our youth as a track coach, teacher, mentor, and administrator.
David Hardy, Jr.
Nicole Holmes
Amber Koon Bellock
David Hardy, Jr. is a 1999 WLME Scholarship Recipient. He is the son of David and Laura Hardy, West Chester, Pennsylvania. He graduated with a B.S. in Economics from Colgate University, a Masters Degree from St. Thomas University in Education Administration, and a Masters Degree in Urban Education Leadership from Columbia University Teacher's College. He also earned his Doctorate of Education in Urban Education Leadership from Columbia University Teacher's College.
He is currently the Managing Partner and Vice President of People and Culture at Education Elements.
Nicole is a 2001 Scholarship Recipient. She is the daughter of Andrew and Denise Holmes, Coatesville, Pennsylvania and a graduate of the Coatesville Area School District. She graduated from the Art Institute of Philadelphia.
Nicole is currently employed as a Health Care Consultant with Johns Hopkins Health Care System, Baltimore, Maryland.
To view Nicole's video, please click this link.
Amber is a 2000 Women's League for Minority Scholarship Recipient. She graduated with honors from Xavier University in New Orleans, Louisiana with a Bachelor's Degree in Biology and a Master's Degree in Biomedical Science with a concentration in Research from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2012. She also earned a Masters degree in Cardiovascular Science from Midwestern University (Arizona). Amber is now employed at Lancaster General Hospital.