You Belong Scholars Program

You Belong Scholars Program
This scholarship supports undergraduate and graduate students who have been formerly incarcerated, recognizing both the structural barriers they face in pursuing higher education and the strengths they bring to our campus community. The scholarship aims to promote access, persistence, and academic success during the transition to campus life. This program also recognizes the profound impact that a loved one’s incarceration can have on a student’s educational pathway, financial stability, and well-being. Thus, undergraduate and graduate students who have been affected by the incarceration of a parent, sibling, partner, child, or other loved one may also apply for this scholarship.

Eligibility
Applicants must:
• Be enrolled full or part-time in an undergraduate or graduate program at UB;
• Have a history of incarceration in jail, prison, or juvenile detention or have an immediate or extended family member who is currently or formerly incarcerated;
• Demonstrate financial need and/or show how incarceration has created obstacles to educational attainment.

Use of Funds
Funds may be used toward tuition, fees, books, transportation, housing, childcare, technology, emergency expenses, or other academic-related needs that support student persistence and success. May be renewable.

Responsibilities
While this scholarship does not carry any service obligations or expectations, we would like your help in keeping this program going, however you’re willing to do so (by for example, providing a testimonial, attending program-sponsored events, etc.).