The Hallie Ladelle Scruggs Haiti Scholarship Fund

A Pathway for Young Women to Lead

Thanks to your generosity and solidarity, the Hallie Ladelle Scruggs Haiti Scholarship Fund continues to create a path for girls from marginalized communities in Haiti to pursue their education—and their dreams.

This project is grounded in a bold and hopeful vision: to provide five scholarships for girls to attend the Andrew Grene High School (AGHS) in Cité Soleil, a school known for academic excellence, resilience in the face of crisis, and a deep commitment to equity. The goal is not just to ensure these students graduate high school—it is to equip them with the knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills to one day study at the University of Fondwa and help rebuild their country.

Despite the growing violence and uncertainty in Haiti—especially in Port-au-Prince—AGHS remains open, defying the odds. Of the 269 students enrolled at the start of the year, 240 are still attending regularly, including 138 girls. Some students have had to relocate to safer neighborhoods, and teachers too have sought refuge with friends and family. But learning continues. Hope endures. And that’s thanks to you.

Reading, Resilience, and Rising Leaders

At the Andrew Grene High School, reading is not just encouraged—it’s celebrated. In June, the school held the grand finale of its multi-month reading competition, bringing together the entire school community for a joyous event filled with laughter, tears, passion, and pride. Every student—from primary through secondary—participated, showcasing their love for books and growing confidence as readers.

The event was more than a competition. It was a declaration: even in a time of deep crisis, education and imagination cannot be extinguished. “At AGHS, reading will always remain at the heart of our commitment to excellence,” shared the school librarian. And your support is what makes this commitment possible.

Sports and Solidarity in a Time of Crisis

To support students’ well-being during this incredibly difficult time, AGHS has prioritized sports and community-building events. On June 11, the school hosted a high-stakes girls’ soccer championship. The final match between the 7th grade team and NS1 (10th grade) brought an electric atmosphere to the school’s grounds. With a scoreless tie at the end of regulation time, Bernadine Régine broke through with the game-winning goal, earning her team the 2025 title. The joy and unity on the field were unforgettable.

These moments matter. As Principal Ricot Pierre explains, they help students cope with trauma and build resilience. AGHS has even begun coordinating events with other schools—including a cultural exchange with singing, dancing, and a bake sale run by alumni in the school’s bakery space.

Launching Schoolwide Entrepreneurship Program

In an innovative leap forward this year, AGHS has launched a schoolwide entrepreneurship curriculum. Led by AGHS graduate and successful entrepreneur Darius Dorescar, the program is designed to cultivate leadership, problem-solving, and a sense of purpose among students.

“The first week was filled with enthusiasm,” said Darius. “Many students already have business ideas or are exploring entrepreneurship in their own lives.” The program was made possible through partnership with CLE Haiti, and aims to give students the tools to become not just job seekers, but job creators. In a country rich in human potential, this investment in entrepreneurship is planting seeds for long-term change.

Graduation Approaches – Set for July 2nd

The end of the 2024-25 academic year approaches, and with it, another cohort of amazing Andrew Grene High School students prepare for their graduation. Thank you for your solidarity and generosity with them.

A Testament to Courage—and to You

What is happening at AGHS is nothing short of remarkable. Amid the crisis, young people are discovering their voices through literature, claiming space on the soccer field, and mapping out futures as entrepreneurs and leaders. And every step of this journey is made possible by you.

The Hallie Ladelle Scruggs Haiti Scholarship Fund is a tribute to Hallie rooted in compassion, creativity, and a commitment to justice. The girls that your scholarship gift are helping to educate carry that spirit forward—against incredible odds.

There is still much more to do. But thanks to your generosity, we are walking the road to hope. And as Principal Pierre reminds us, “Together, we will have a great testimony of success.”

With deep gratitude,

The University of Fondwa USA Team

Links:

• Check out our latest annual report on our website.