Nominations open for UTSC Black Flourishing Award

A new scholarship aimed at supporting Black students as they begin university studies has been launched at the University of Toronto Scarborough, adding to a long running initiative that celebrates academic achievement among graduating high school students.

The UTSC Black Flourishing Award will make its debut as part of the 2026 Walk with Excellence program, an initiative established in 2013 by community leader and A Different Booklist founder Itah Sadu in partnership with the Blackhurst Cultural Centre, the Toronto District School Board, and the York University TD Community Engagement Centre.

Created by UTSC’s Development and Alumni Relations Office in collaboration with the Anti Black Racism and Black Inclusion Advisory Committee and the Office of the Registrar, the award is intended to encourage Black student success throughout their post secondary education.

Each year, two Black students entering undergraduate studies at UTSC will receive the scholarship. Valued at $2,000 annually and renewable for up to five years, each award has a maximum value of $10,000. In addition to financial assistance, recipients will receive mentorship and participate in an annual luncheon with members of the Anti Black Racism and Black Inclusion Advisory Committee to help connect them with university services and support.

The scholarship will recognize students who demonstrate the principles of Black Flourishing, Inclusive Excellence, Mutuality, and Accountability.

To qualify, applicants must be graduating from a Scarborough high school, have applied to, been accepted into, and enrolled in an undergraduate program at UTSC, be nominated by a Toronto District School Board educator in Scarborough, and have participated in the Walk with Excellence program.

Organizers say the initiative is designed to ease financial pressures while providing students with continued guidance as they transition from high school to university.

Nominations must be submitted no later than Friday, July 17, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

Contact celine.gibbons.taylor@utoronto.ca

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