Scholars and Alumni of the Month
Christopher C. CarterUndergraduate degree: Bowling Green State University, 2018, High School English Education
Christopher Carter is a passionate and dynamic leader in both the arts and education, dedicated to making a lasting impact in Houston and beyond. A proud CAYF alumnus, Christopher is the Founder and Artistic Director of Voices of Houston, a renowned choral ensemble committed to preserving and sharing the rich tradition of the negro spiritual. Under his visionary leadership, the group earned first place at the 2023 Detroit Spiritual Festival and was honored as the featured choir at the 2023 National Association of Negro Musicians Convention, performing powerful works by composers Rosephanye Powell and Roland Carter. In 2013, Christopher founded Voices at BGSU (Bowling Green State University), a student-led ensemble dedicated to the preservation of negro spirituals. The choir toured across the U.S. and performed in the prestigious 2017 Underground Railroad Concert of Negro Spirituals, hosted by legendary soprano Kathleen Battle. Beyond his musical contributions, Christopher has served in church ministry for over a decade and is currently the Director of Music at Westbury United Methodist Church in Houston, where he leads multiple musical ensembles, including choirs, bands, and handbells. Christopher is also the Assistant Principal at Carroll Elementary in Houston, where he is passionate about fostering an inclusive, nurturing environment for students. Since relocating to Houston in 2018 from his hometown Detroit, he has worked tirelessly to empower students through education, music, and leadership. His commitment to both the arts and education reflects his belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive and reach their fullest potential. For more information about Voices of Houston, visit https://voicesofhouston.org/ #GoYoung |
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Destiny Brickerson
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Undergraduate pursuit: Norfolk State University, Psychology
Destiny is a force to be reckoned with—an inspiring CAYF scholar and Senior at Norfolk State University. Hailing from Detroit, MI, she’s a proud first-generation college student with a deep passion for mental health advocacy and youth development. Driven by her desire to create supportive environments for young people, Destiny is on a path to become a mental health specialist, focused on helping youth navigate their challenges and thrive. But Destiny's impact stretches beyond the classroom. In the summer of 2024, she embarked on an unforgettable journey to South Africa, where she worked closely with survivors of gender-based violence. There, she not only gained new perspectives but also deepened her commitment to making a difference. Whether advocating for mental health, working with youth, or exploring new cultures—like the one she experienced walking alongside elephants in South Africa—Destiny’s larger-than-life presence continues to inspire and empower others to break barriers and embrace their potential. #GoYoung |
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ScholarsThe core program of the Coleman Young Foundation (CAYF) is the Scholars Program that:
During their undergraduate years, Scholars receive support and guidance from CAYF staff members who assist scholars with school and life challenges. Staff members work with Financial Aid officers and Academic Advisers on behalf of scholars who need assistance. CAYF staff call and email Scholars at least twice a week. In addition, Scholars at Michigan universities attend dinners with CAYF staff and alumni who offer advice and encouragement. Scholars also receive assistance in finding summer jobs, applying to graduate school, and career planning. During the summer before the freshman year, CAYF Scholars attend the Summer Enrichment Program. This program is designed to ease the change from living at home to college life with all its challenges. In return, Scholars are expected to give back to the Foundation by helping in the office and with CAYF events, and by improving their own community through volunteer and mentorship activities. |
By the Numbers
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CAYF scholarships are for $5,000 per year for four years of college. Thus, the total value of the award is up to $20,000 for the student who completes his or her degree
CAYF has a proven history of successfully graduating students at a rate far exceeding state and national levels. The 85-90% retention rate of the CAYF Scholar Program betters the average college retention rate by more than 30 points. Since 1986, CAYF has awarded more than four million dollars to more than four hundred students. Currently, the Foundation supports 26 Scholars enrolled in colleges and universities in Michigan and elsewhere in the nation. |
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Past Scholars |
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