Who We Are
The Joyce Russell Kente Awards and Scholarship Ceremony was founded in 2000 to recognize outstanding student achievements and leadership.
The event also highlights individuals making a difference in the community, with past honorees including Florida Supreme Court Justice Peggy Quince, the late NFL player Vincent T. Jackson and Sen. Arthenia Joyner.
All event proceeds directly fund scholarships, reinforcing our commitment to expanding educational access and fostering future leaders.
What We Do
For over two decades, the Joyce Russell Kente Awards and Scholarship Ceremony has honored academic excellence, leadership and community impact at USF.
This initiative also helps address financial barriers that prevent students from achieving their full potential.
Through Giving Week, we aim to expand scholarship support and ensure that deserving students have the resources they need to thrive academically and beyond.
Your Impact
Your support will directly fund scholarships that provide critical financial assistance to students striving for excellence. Many recipients are first-generation college students and high-achieving scholars who would otherwise face financial obstacles.
With your generosity, we can help future graduates break barriers, build successful careers and contribute meaningfully to society.
USF Faculty and Staff: You can give online through this site, or complete this payroll deduction form (enter fund #89001316, From Ceremony to Scholarship: Fuel Futures with the Kente Awards) and email it to fscampaign@usf.edu.
What Your Generosity Will Do
Every donation strengthens our ability to increase scholarship awards, helping students graduate with less financial strain and pursue leadership opportunities. Your generosity will also enhance the Kente Awards experience, ensuring we continue celebrating academic success and community contributions in a meaningful way.
Together, we can create lasting opportunities that empower students to achieve their goals and make a difference.
Spread the Word
We are counting on your help! Make an even bigger impact by sharing your support of this campaign using the social media tools at the top of this page.
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
Need help with your post? Try this message:
Make a difference today! Every gift helps support our scholars' success: usf.to/gwbln. Thank you and go Bulls! 🤘 #Kente2025 #USFKenteAwards #USFKente
This program or activity is privately funded. See Florida BOG Regulation 9.016(1)(a)7-8 and 9.016(2) and SB 266 (section 1004.06(2), Florida Statutes).
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