News Summary
In honor of James Brown’s upcoming 92nd birthday, the James Brown Family Foundation has unveiled the ‘Don’t Be A Dropout Scholarship Fund’ to support underrepresented students. Launched on May 3, 2025, this initiative aims to inspire students showing academic potential and community commitment, promoting education and opportunities aligned with Brown’s legacy.
Augusta, Georgia – In celebration of what would have been the 92nd birthday of legendary musician James Brown on May 3, 2025, the James Brown Family Foundation has announced the launch of a new scholarship program aimed at assisting students from underrepresented communities in their pursuit of post-secondary education. The scholarship is named the “Don’t Be A Dropout Scholarship Fund” and seeks to support students who exhibit academic promise, artistic potential, and a strong dedication to community service.
This annual scholarship initiative opens its first round of applications on the same day as its launch, May 3, 2025. The James Brown Family Foundation, led by Dr. Deanna Brown-Thomas, who is James Brown’s daughter and president of the foundation, underscores the vital role education played in the musician’s life and legacy. By offering this scholarship, the foundation aims to uplift young people and inspire future generations of artists and leaders.
The scholarship program is closely aligned with the foundation’s mission to honor James Brown’s legacy as well as to invest in the future of young talent. In addition to the “Don’t Be A Dropout Scholarship Fund,” the foundation also operates the James Brown Academy of Music Pupils (J.A.M.P), which currently provides scholarships to music students. This demonstrates the foundation’s commitment to nurturing the artistic community, just as James Brown did throughout his career.
James Brown, often referred to as the Godfather of Soul, was born in Barnwell, South Carolina and later relocated to Augusta, Georgia. He rose to fame with a series of iconic hits including “I Got You (I Feel Good)” and “Get on the Good Foot,” transforming the music industry and influencing countless artists. The foundation, established in his honor, works to preserve not only his musical legacy but also the values he championed, such as education and social responsibility.
Dr. Yamma Brown, another of James Brown’s daughters and the vice president of the foundation, has indicated that the scholarship is designed to preserve her father’s mission and enhance his legacy beyond music. The foundation aims to create a positive impact on the lives of young individuals, encouraging them to pursue their educational goals and making a difference in their communities.
The “Don’t Be A Dropout Scholarship Fund” specifically targets students who belong to marginalized backgrounds, promoting equity and opportunity in education. The foundation’s goal is to encourage these students not only to complete their education but to thrive in their chosen career paths. The scholarship will consider applicants who demonstrate both academic achievements and involvement in community service, ensuring that recipients are not only talented but also committed to making a positive contribution to society.
The foundation has made resources available for interested applicants, including eligibility requirements and application details, which can be accessed through the James Brown Family Foundation’s website. With this new scholarship program, the foundation hopes to honor James Brown’s legacy while fostering the next generation of creative talent and community leaders.
By investing in education and uplifting underrepresented students, the James Brown Family Foundation continues to reflect the values and spirit of its founder, ensuring that his impact is felt not only through his music but also through the lives of those he inspires.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Explore Augusta’s Vibrant Community Events This May
James Brown Family Launches Scholarship Fund to Honor Legacy
Additional Resources
- WJBF: James Brown’s 92nd Birthday Launches New Scholarship Fund
- WRDW: How to Apply for Scholarship to Honor James Brown
- Augusta Chronicle: Augusta Schools Georgia Promise Scholarship
- James Brown Family Foundation
- Wikipedia: James Brown
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AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
