Terrell Nichols is the first recipient of the Dolores Davis-Penn Scholarship providing full tuition and room and board at University of Detroit Mercy for graduates of Detroit’s Jalen Rose Leadership Academy.
The scholarship was established this year with a $250,000 gift from University of Detroit Mercy alumnus and Jalen Rose Leadership Academy co-founder Michael Carter.
Nichols, who lives in Detroit, said University of Detroit Mercy, which she calls “a little oasis in the city,” was among her top choices for college. Nichols hopes to be a teacher and counselors at JRLA told her the University had a strong education program and encouraged her to apply for the scholarship.
Jalen Rose Leadership Academy College Success Counselor LeDetra Lindsey said she has seen much growth in Terrell over the years and sees great potential.
“She did not have a traditional family upbringing,” Lindsey said. “And for her to overcome what she has overcome and to be able to make it into school every day, even though she may not have been at the same home every night, is remarkable.”
Nichols was chosen for her school involvement; she was captain of the cheer team and worked as a mentor for other students, Lindsey said. “UDM will notice her because she will definitely be active on campus.”
Nichols is the first student to receive the new scholarship set up by Detroit Mercy alumnus Michael Carter ’72, ’78. Click here for more about Michael Carter.
