Mission Statement

The Steve Smith Pershing High MSU Scholarship for Academic Achievement was established after I felt the desire to recognize those who helped support me in achieving my goals: my family, friends, teachers, coaches and community. These people continue to inspire me and compel me to give back to my community. Michigan State University, this endowed scholarship fund benefits worthy and capable students enrolled at MSU from Detroit Pershing High School. The scholarship is a gift for the students so that they may attend MSU without the concern of financing their education. It is also intended to encourage students who have demonstrated the capacity to achieve educational and professional goals, the motivation to achieve these goals and the initiative to seek opportunities to further their progress.

Students interested in the opportunities presented by the Steve Smith Scholarship Fund show initiative and drive where their future is concerned. This is demonstrated when they apply for the scholarship. A formal application and additional essay gives insight into the student’s academic life and achievements, as well as social life and background. The applications submitted to MSU present the best and brightest representatives of Detroit Pershing High School. After reviewing all the applicants, one deserving recipient per year is chosen and awarded a scholarship which provides endless academic, social, and career opportunities. These students are also given access to the Clara Bell Smith Center on MSU’s campus; a state-of-the-art building that provides support for student-athletes and their efforts in furthering their education and careers.

Currently, the scholarship provides for $10,000 per student per academic year. In the future, the Steve Smith Scholarship Fund would like to bring even more students from Pershing High School to Michigan State University, and be able to provide funding for increasing tuition and room & board expenses, summer classes, study abroad programs, and act as a resource through which students may be able to find jobs and internships related to their field of study.

The Steve Smith Scholarship Fund is comprised of many people who together form a team united by the common goal of making a profound difference in the lives of young people. This team strives to give more opportunities to more students every year, and provide them with the educational and life experiences to be successful in their future. Please take a moment to read more about the Scholarship Fund, the students who are already benefiting from it, and how you can become a part of our team and invest in the future of a Spartan.