Community Corner
The Guaranteed Education Program Opens Doors for Newark Students
Providing free tuition and financial support, this initiative fosters academic success and community empowerment for Newark residents.
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Education is a powerful tool for social mobility, and St. Elizabeth University (SEU) has long been committed to serving its students and community. Through the Guaranteed Education Program (GEP), SEU is transforming lives by providing Newark residents with free tuition and other financial support, ensuring that higher education is accessible to those who need it most. This initiative, developed in partnership with the City of Newark, is designed to close the education and wealth gap by removing financial barriers for students from vulnerable communities.
For decades, SEU has upheld a mission rooted in public service, community engagement, and student empowerment. The GEP represents a continuum of this dedication, reinforcing the university’s belief that education should be a right, not a privilege. By giving students the opportunity to focus on their studies without the burden of financial hardship, SEU is shaping future leaders who will go on to uplift their communities.
To understand the profound impact of the Guaranteed Education Program, we spoke with three student recipients: Zaa’Min, Kayla, and Awa. Their stories illustrate resilience, transformation, and the power of higher education in changing lives.
Zaa’Min Jones: Finding Purpose Through Psychology
Zaa’Min’s journey to success was not a straight path. Battling trauma and social anxiety, he initially struggled academically, entering SEU with a 1.9 GPA. Through the support of dedicated professors like Dr. John Kizzie and the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) program, he not only improved his grades but also discovered his passion for psychology. Today, Zaa’Min envisions a future as a sports psychologist, helping athletes navigate mental health challenges.
Beyond academics, SEU provided him with a strong support system, helping her overcome imposter syndrome and financial hardships. He now embraces leadership roles, planning to launch a nonprofit organization focused on trauma and community support. For Zaa’Min, the Guaranteed Education Program was not just financial aid—it was an opportunity to reclaim his future.
Kayla Holt: Embracing Servant Leadership
Growing up in Newark, NJ, Kayla faced numerous financial and academic challenges. Despite graduating high school with a 2.5 GPA, she found a second chance at SEU, where she excelled academically, making the Provost’s List with a 3.7 GPA.
Kayla credits SEU’s mentorship programs and EOF support for her success, helping her develop strong study habits and a positive mindset. She plans to work in elementary education and later pursue a master’s degree in higher education. Her dream is to mentor future generations, instilling in them the same resilience and passion for learning that SEU nurtured in her.
“The Guaranteed Education Program gave me the financial freedom to focus on my academics,” Kayla shared. “I hope to pay it forward by guiding and mentoring students who come from backgrounds like mine.”
Awa Doumbia: Overcoming Barriers, Building a Future
For Awa, the road to higher education was filled with obstacles. Born in America but raised in Ghana for part of her childhood, she faced challenges adjusting to school due to her French-speaking background. When she returned to the U.S. during the COVID-19 pandemic, financial hardships threatened her dream of attending college. The Guaranteed Education Program changed everything.
With support from SEU’s advisors and faculty, Awa not only thrived academically but also found a renewed sense of purpose. Inspired by the loss of her sister, she now plans to pursue a law degree and a career in law enforcement to advocate for justice and serve her community.
“The GEP lifted a huge weight off my shoulders,” Awa said. “I now have the chance to pursue my dreams without worrying about financial obstacles.”
A Commitment to Service and Success
The Guaranteed Education Program is just one example of St. Elizabeth University’s broader mission of service, equity, and educational excellence. The university’s commitment to mentorship, academic support, and financial accessibility ensures that students are not just admitted but also set up for long-term success.
For Newark students, GEP is more than just tuition assistance—it’s a gateway to opportunity, confidence, and upward mobility. Through programs like this, St. Elizabeth University continues to break down barriers and uplift the next generation of leaders.
To learn more about the Guaranteed Education Program at SEU, visit https://www.steu.edu/news/newark-launches-guaranteed-education-pilot-program-with-saint-elizabeth.html
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