The giant company co-founded by Jay-Z is stepping up to create a lasting impact in Philadelphia by launching a $300 million scholarship campaign aimed at uplifting K-12 students from low-income households.
- Jun 8, 2024
AceShowbiz - Jay-Z's Roc Nation announced on June 7 plans to launch a groundbreaking educational campaign in Philadelphia that will aid K-12 students from low-income households in securing roughly $300 million in scholarships. The initiative, falling under Senate Bill 757, also known as the Pennsylvania Award for Student Success (PASS), aims to provide vital educational opportunities for the city's youth.
The scholarships will be distributed to students based on their age group and education level. For example, half-day kindergarteners will receive $2,500, K-8th graders will get $5,000, while high schoolers can secure $10,000. Special needs children of any age are eligible to collect $15,000 in scholarship funding. Students' eligibility is contingent upon household income not exceeding 250% of the federal poverty level, which currently sits at $75,000 for a family of four.
"We have enjoyed such a special connection with Philadelphians, so we've made it our mission to invest in the long-term success of the city's changemakers," said Roc Nation Managing Director of Philanthropy Dania Diaz. "Impact starts with the students and with awareness. We want to empower the youth and families with the knowledge to pursue their scholastic dreams, make their voices heard, and become the leaders of tomorrow."
To ensure the community is well-informed about the PASS program, Roc Nation is slated to host a series of events across the greater Philadelphia region from June 10-21. These events will run daily from 12 p.m. ET to 7 p.m. ET at various locations, including Hunting Park, Olney-Feltonville, Brewerytown, Haddington, and East Passyunk/South Philly. Those in attendance will have the chance to learn more about the opportunities the PASS program provides.
Roc Nation's commitment to social causes is not new. The entertainment company has long-established ties with Philadelphia through its annual Made in America Festival, which launched in 2012 but has been on pause since 2023. In collaboration with the city's REFORM Alliance, they have also worked on transforming Pennsylvania's criminal justice system through lobbying efforts.
In 2020, Roc Nation teamed up with Long Island University to start the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment. The school, located in Jay-Z's hometown of Brooklyn, New York, aims to offer undergraduate degrees in music, music technology, entrepreneurship and production, and sports management.
Jay-Z, who received the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award at the 66th annual Grammy Awards in 2024, continues to use his platform to give back beyond the world of music. His contributions, such as the new educational initiative in Philadelphia, underscore his dedication to creating lasting positive change in communities, empowering the youth, and nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.
