African American Leadership (AAL) Scholarship
A Celebration of Scholars & Bold Ideas
May 14, 2026
Since 1999, United Way of Greenville County’s African American Leadership (AAL) group has invested in the future of Greenville through scholarships that support academic excellence, leadership and community impact. The scholarships also carry forward the legacy of two influential African American leaders, Judge F. Merl Code and Marvin Monroe Ward, whose commitment to community continues to shape opportunities for future generations.
Scholarships
AAL will award scholarships of $5,000 each to graduating seniors in Greenville County
Judge F. Merl Code Scholarship
Recognizes students who demonstrate academic excellence, community service, and financial need.
Marvin Monroe Ward Legacy Scholarship
Honors the life and legacy of Marvin Monroe Ward by supporting purpose-driven students committed to serving their community.
New in 2026: Black Futures Pitch Competition
Students are invited to answer one powerful question:
“If you funded it, what would you fund?”
Applicants imagine they have $1,000,000 to invest in the Greenville community and propose an idea that could create meaningful change.
Students may:
- Apply for the pitch competition only
- Apply for a scholarship
- Apply for both
Selected finalists will present their ideas live at the Black Futures event before a panel of AAL Council members, United Way of Greenville County board members and community leaders.
Pitch Competition Awards
- 1st Place: $3,000
- 2nd Place: $1,500
- 3rd Place: $1,000
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a graduating high school senior during the 2025–2026 academic year
- Reside in Greenville County, South Carolina
- Have a minimum 3.0 GPA (unofficial transcript accepted)
- Plan to pursue a degree, certification or trade at an accredited institution
- Be an emerging African American leader in Greenville County
- These requirements apply whether applying for the scholarship, pitch competition or both.
Application Requirements
Applicants will be considered for both scholarship opportunities.
Scholarship Applicants
Required materials include:
- Unofficial high school transcript
- Two letters of recommendation
- Household income and number of dependents
- List of extracurricular activities, community involvement or employment
Essays (500 words each):
- Personal Statement: Share your story, your goals, and how this scholarship will support your future.
- Community Essay: What motivates you to give back, and how will you continue serving your community?
Pitch Competition Applicants
Pitch Concept (500 words):
If you had $1,000,000 to invest in Greenville, what would you fund?
Describe the idea, who it serves and why it matters.
KEY DATES
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March 23: Application opens
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April 3: Application deadline
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April 6–10: Scholarship and pitch submissions reviewed
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April 14: Scholarship recipients and pitch finalists notified
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May 14: Black Futures event – Scholars honored and finalists pitch