DC Students Surprised with Scholarships After ‘Interviews’

WASHINGTON, D.C. – What began as a formal scholarship interview session at the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) headquarters turned into a life-changing surprise for more than 30 D.C.-raised students.

An Unexpected Announcement

On Thursday afternoon, students dressed in their best attire — suits, dresses, and polished shoes — gathered at DPR’s headquarters, believing they were taking part in the final step of a competitive scholarship process. Each had already submitted a video application and recommendation letters in hopes of securing college funding.

They were escorted into small group interviews, asked questions, and then sent back to the main room. But when DPR Director Thennie Freeman addressed the group, she revealed a twist: every student would be receiving a scholarship.

Historic First for DPR Scholarships

For the first time, the city agency awarded scholarships of up to $5,000 to students who grew up participating in DPR programs. In total, 45 students will receive the awards, funded directly through DPR’s budget.

“When I say ‘weight off my back,’ that was what I felt immediately when Miss Thennie came and announced that we were all getting the scholarship,” said Absalom Bolling, a doctoral student at Howard University’s College of Pharmacy. “Graduate school, at this time, in this climate, is very expensive.”

Students Share Their Journeys

For many recipients, DPR facilities were a vital part of their upbringing.

Dajhon Williams, now studying public health at Brown University, grew up in a two-bedroom home with five siblings. Recreation centers became a safe haven. “It was just a lifeline,” he said.
Michaela Watts, headed to Norfolk State to study special education, spent her childhood at neighborhood pools, playgrounds, and T-ball games. She always dreamed of becoming a teacher and said the scholarship will help pay off her current balance and future tuition.
Nia Bethea, who plans to study business and economics at North Carolina A&T, called the financial help “critical,” saying it will ease the debt burden for both her and her parents.
Rieco Hellams, attending Old Dominion University, emphasized that the award “takes the burden off my parents” and makes paying for college far less stressful.

More Than Just Money

While the funds are significant, students said the recognition of their community involvement and personal growth meant just as much. Many had spent years attending DPR programs, from sports leagues to after-school activities, and credited those experiences with shaping their academic and career ambitions.

“This scholarship is not just about paying bills,” said one recipient. “It’s about knowing our community believes in us.”

Celebrating the Moment

After the announcement, the students posed for headshots and held oversized ceremonial checks, marking a milestone in their educational journeys.

Freeman expressed pride in being able to invest in local talent, noting that DPR’s mission is not only to provide recreation but also to support young residents in achieving their goals.

With the scholarships now in hand, the recipients are set to take their next steps toward college degrees — and the promise of giving back to the communities that helped them grow.