The DC Housing Authority (DCHA) honored the 18 recipients of the annual Commitment to Excellence Scholarship Program (CESP) with a ceremony at the EnVision Center on Saturday, July 25.
The event featured remarks from DCHA staff, Deputy Director of the Mayor’s Office of Community Affairs Marcus Manning and a keynote address delivered by founder of College Gurl and President of the College Gurl Foundation Jessica Brown. CESP recipient Promise Brown also performed an inspirational dance piece as part of the ceremony.
“You have won these scholarships because of your commitment and dedication to academic achievement, and I have no doubt that you all have very bright futures ahead of you. All of us at DCHA will be watching to see the amazing things that you accomplish,” said DCHA Interim Executive Director Nicole Wickliffe. “You have shown that you have what it takes to succeed, and I know that you will continue to make your families proud.”
“It is my honor to walk alongside our scholars and provide opportunities for growth and development. Watching some of the journeys unfold is a testament to the power of hope, opportunity, and community that we have in this very room,” said Brian Harris, Director of DCHA’s Office of Resident Services. “We are immensely proud of their success and excited for the future they are building.”
CESP is awarded to students who are DCHA Public Housing residents or Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCVP) household members. Students must be enrolled at an accredited college, university, or trade/technical school. These scholarships help recipients pay for books, tuition, equipment, and other additional materials that can help support students in their educational journeys.
Congratulations to all of the 2026 Commitment to Excellence Scholarship recipients!