Oakland Park student wins Obama Foundation scholarship

Oakland Park student Jheannelle Johnson, who attends Howard University, will be part of an inaugural cohort of 100 Voyager Scholars under the Obama-Chesky Public Service Scholars program.

The Voyager Scholarship is the highly selective scholarship funded by Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky’s $100 million personal contribution to the Obama Foundation for students pursuing careers in public service.

“Through their stories, it’s clear that each of these Travelers has a commitment to serving their communities, a deep curiosity for the world, and big plans for the future,” Chesky said in a statement. “Traveling to new places and connecting with new people will help bring those plans to fruition and I can’t wait to see where they go from here.”

The scholarship is a two-year program for college undergraduate and graduate students and provides young leaders with financial aid, meaningful travel experiences to broaden their horizons, and a network of mentors and leaders to support them.

“As a first-generation college student, my struggles have made me strong, compassionate, resourceful, and willing to serve because I understand firsthand what a difference it can make in someone’s life,” Johnson said in a statement. “I want to live in a world — a healthier world — that is not limited by lifestyles or access to quality care. This cannot be achieved without the help of this scholarship. With the Obama-Chesky Public Service Scholarship Program, I will have access to a support network of people who can change my life through their mentorship, friendship, and resources. I will be able to complete my degree without financial burdens, which will allow me to be fully present in my goals of achieving my vision and providing valuable assets to my community.

Visit obama.org/voyager-scholarship.