LIFESTYLE

Tacoma’s Making a Difference Foundation Awarding More Than $26K in Scholarships

Sep 2, 2026, 4:00 PM

South Sound Business...

South Sound Business

Originally published on South Sound Business.

Tacoma’s Making a Difference Foundation yesterday announced the recipients of its 2026-27 scholarship program, which is awarding a total of $26,500 to 11 students pursuing higher education.

The annual scholarship program awards students who have demonstrated academic achievement, perseverance, leadership, and a commitment to making a positive impact on their communities, according to a MADF release. The aim of the program is to help students overcome financial barriers and use their education to pursue opportunities that will strengthen both their futures as well as their communities.

“Education has the power to transform lives, strengthen families, and create lasting change within communities,” said Ahndrea Blue, president and CEO of the MADF, in the release. “Each of these students has demonstrated remarkable determination, resilience, and a commitment to their future. We are honored to invest in their educational journeys and look forward to seeing the incredible impact they will make in the years ahead.”

Chosen by a selection committee, this year’s recipients will attend colleges and universities across the U.S. They are, per the release:

Rahail Alem — Columbia UniversityJaylah Cage — Hampton UniversityAngeline Cifelli — Gonzaga UniversityAugustine Cifelli — Washington State UniversityK’Maria Cowains — University of California, RiversideAliyah Diquan-McRae — University of WashingtonUbah Farah — Seattle Central CollegeCalyx Hall — Otis College of Art and DesignLeilani Sallier — Louisiana State UniversityMcKayla Simmons — Los Angeles Harbor CollegeRogerick Watts — University of California, Irvine

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