"In my life, education will be my bridge [to success] and I am going to put all of the effort I have into crossing it."
-Xavier Brown
Xavier Brown is a Paul Robeson High School senior, a College Access Program participant, and most recently, a 2010 Gate Millennium Scholar. Xavier, along with 1,000 other students nationwide, was selected among thousands of applicants for this prestigious and highly-competitive scholarship. The Gates Millennium Scholarships provide support to outstanding minority students facing significant financial need.
Xavier graduated 8th grade from World Communications Charter School and was recruited to play varsity basketball for Paul Robeson High School. It was at Paul Robeson where Xavier met an important and influential adult in his life, former principal John Council.
A talented athlete, Xavier was en route to receive an athletic scholarship to attend college, but soon learned about academic scholarships. Through his College Access Coordinator Gisell James and high school guidance counselor Margaret Bryant-Renwick, Xavier learned about other scholarship opportunities, including the Gates Millennium Scholarship.
Xavier identified a group of caring adults that helped contribute to his academic achievements, including mentors and coaches. “Through all of my accomplishments, I have always had people in my corner that helped me get where I am,” Xavier said. He identified his special mentor and “first teacher” as his mother, Terry Brown. Gisell James also recognized and supported Xavier’s ambitions. “Xavier was never afraid to ask questions and ask for more information than was provided. I have no doubt that he will make the best use of all that this scholarship has to offer.” Xavier’s determination and hard work paid off; Xavier was one of 11 students selected from Pennsylvania to be recognized as a 2010 Gates Millennium Scholar.
Xavier noted that the College Access Program, in particular, “helped stay focused through my high school years and has kept me on the right path to a successful future."
Xavier hopes to continue his education and complete a doctoral program in Sports Medicine/Physical Therapy and aspires to work in the Sports Medicine/Physical Therapy field.
Xavier was recently given the opportunity to meet the Honorable Chaka Fattah, U.S. Congressman for Pennsylvania's 2nd District. During the meeting, Congressman Fattah congratulated Xavier on his academic achievements and presented him with an official United States Citation!
The College Access Program and the entire Philadelphia Education Fund congratulates Xavier Brown for this wonderful honor!
