Two members of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis (BGCSTL) excitedly received $40,000 scholarships thanks to Best Buy and UNCF. Murllin B. and Lauren D. accepted scholarship checks, on Thursday at the Best Buy Teen Tech Center at BGC Herbert Hoover, 2901 N. Grand Blvd., at 5 p.m.
Murllin B. and Lauren D. excelled in the application process, achieving at least a 3.0 grade point average (GPA), submitting personal statements about their academic and career interests, and demonstrating financial need.
Both members are part of the Best Buy Pathways (College to Career – C2C) Program. According to Alonzo Lee, the Pathways Facilitator and Best Buy Teen Tech Center College and Programs Leader, “their applications focused on academics and showcased leadership, character, and a passion for making an impact in the tech or business fields.”
Lauren is planning to attend the University of Missouri-Columbia (MIZZOU) in the fall, studying Architecture and Interior Design. It is a five-year program, but Lauren said, “I plan to finish it in four.”
Murllin has been accepted to Washington University and Harvard University. 
Each recipient receives $40,000 in funding, a dedicated college/career mentor coach for four years, and an additional $1,000 emergency stipend for personal needs. BGCSTL President and CEO Brandon Williams stated, “This is a tremendous acknowledgment of their hard work and we hope it provides other teens with an incentive to get involved in the Pathways/Best Buy Teen Tech program.” Last year, BGCSTL member Alexis L. became the first recipient from the BGC St. Louis family to win this scholarship. Alexis is currently a freshman at the University of Missouri-Columbia (MIZZOU).
The Pathways (C2C) program is an excellent opportunity for local teens looking to attend college. It equips them with the tools needed to thrive in post-secondary education and their future careers. Together, Best Buy and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis are paving the way for future leaders. Williams added, “I am incredibly proud of Murllin, Lauren, and all our Pathways members for their achievements. Their success is a testament to the transformative power of the BGCGSTL and the Best Buy Pathways program, and I look forward to continuing our efforts to support these young leaders.”
Media coverage of this event is encouraged, and photo opportunities will be available. BGCSTL President/CEO and the scholarship winners will be available for interviews. For scheduling an interview or for more information, please contact Deneen Busby, VP of Marketing and Communications, at 314-680-7998.
