SALT LAKE CITY-Wednesday, the University of Utah created the George Floyd Memorial Fund in the Black Cultural Center.
Its purpose is to assist students and programs who are committed to advancing the interests of the rising generation of black leaders.
This statement was made by university president Ruth V. Watkins.
It is our hope that the newly established George Floyd Memorial Fund in the U's Black Cultural Center will be a catalyst in shaping the next generation of aspiring black leaders. We join you, @scotthaganNCU @NorthCentral_MN
Learn more here: https://t.co/PtCelq2p4B
— Ruth V. Watkins (@RuthVWatkins) June 11, 2020
This fund was established in response to a challenge set forth by Minneapolis-based North Central University president Scott Hagan.
Hagan was among the speakers at Floyd’s memorial service earlier this week.
During his address, Hagan called upon all colleges and universities in the United States to engage in this task.
Floyd was killed May 25 as he was detained by Minneapolis police officers.
This scholarship announcement occurs as the UofU is currently investigating a social media post dating back to 2013 wherein the football program’s currently suspended defensive coordinator, Morgan Scalley, included racist language when talking about one of the Utes’ football student-athletes.
Watkins stated the fund is “among new and specific actions and strategies” the UofU is developing in hopes of ensuring “diversity, equity and inclusion” are primary focuses on campus.
If interested, you may apply online at auxiliary.apps.utah.edu/ugive/designation/3664 or visit the UofU’s giving page at giving.utah.edu.
On this page, you may search for the George Floyd Scholarship Fund.
The U.’s advancement office may be reached at 1-801-581-3720.
