Apply Today for the Merwyn Page Reaves Memorial Scholarship!

 

The Merwyn Page Reaves Memorial Scholarship program was created to honor the life and legacy of Merwyn Page Reaves. The scholarship is administered by DEC-VA (Descendants of Enslaved Communities of Virginia) and is available to graduating high school seniors in Virginia who are descendants of African Americans enslaved in Virginia.

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Merwyn Page Reaves lived a life anchored in service, scholarship, and pride in his ancestry. He earned his electrical engineering degree from Howard University, served as a 2nd lieutenant and commander of a tank battalion in the U.S. Army in South Korea, and was a decorated professional. After his service, he embarked on a distinguished 30-year career at IBM, retiring in 1994. 

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A lifelong Eagle Scout, he embodied the values of leadership, discipline, and commitment to others, actively mentoring Boy Scout Troop 2501 at Heritage Fellowship Church. He was a dedicated STEM counselor at Bricks 4 Kidz and a mentor, investing time in shaping the next generation of innovators. 

He spent decades conducting genealogical research, proudly documenting his family’s descent from the Hemings family of Monticello, and his research served as the basis for House Bill 1980: The Enslaved Ancestors College Access Scholarship and Memorial Program. A devoted volunteer and classic car enthusiast (Top Flight Corvette Club), he passed away on December 23, 2023, leaving a legacy of purpose, mentorship, and cultural pride.

 

CRITERIA:

Applicant must be a:

• Virginia resident,

• High School Graduating Senior and

• Descendants of enslaved African Americans in Virginia
   

Scholarship Pathways (Video Submission Only)

Applicants will select one award category and submit a 2–3 minute video in response to the associated prompt. Creativity, authenticity, and connection to personal experience are encouraged.
 

Application Timeline

Opens: January 19 (Martin Luther King Jr. Day)

Closes: April 17 

Notification of Award: May 1

Administered by: DEC-VA Scholarship Committee

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AWARDS

 

$1,000- HBCU Legacy Award

For students attending a Historically Black College or University

Video Prompt: “What does it mean to carry forward the legacy of Black excellence at an HBCU?”

 

$1,000- STEM Excellence Award

For students entering Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math fields

Video Prompt: “What inspires you to pursue a STEM career, and how will you use it to impact the world?”

 

$1,000- Genealogy & Historical Research Award

For students engaged in family history or African American historical preservation

Video Prompt: “Why is it important for descendants of the enslaved to research and preserve their family stories?”

 

$1,000- Leadership & Service Award

For students active in Scouts, JROTC, student leadership, or community service

Video Prompt: “How have you used leadership to serve others, and what kind of leader do you hope to be?”

 

$1,000- MPR Scholar Award – Open Pathways

For students of any major who reflect Merwyn’s values of resilience, legacy, and community

Video Prompt: “How will you honor your ancestors and carry their legacy into your future?”