Matrix Fitness has announced the recipients of their Project COURAGE scholarship awards for 2024/2025, selecting seven students and professionals from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Launched in 2023, the Project COURAGE initiative empowers individuals at the 107 HBCUs to explore fitness-related fields and develop relevant skills.
The scholarship award recipients include:
- Adebamike Adekunle, Education Leadership student, Texas Southern University
- Brittany Brooks, Recreation Facility Manager, Jackson State University
- Gerald Davis, Director, Ralph H. Boston Wellness Center, Tennessee State University
- Wayne Gibbs, Director of Recreational Services, Lincoln University
- Faith Shakoor, Biology student, Texas Southern University
- Isaiah Taylor, Business Administration student, North Carolina Central University
- Braxton Upton, Exercise Science student, Central State University
Selected by the Project COURAGE Advisory Panel, scholarship recipients can use their awards for tuition, books, educational expenses, or conference attendance, depending on their specific needs. Several recipients will attend prominent industry events such as the Emerging Recreational Sports Leaders Conference (ERSL) at Howard University and the NIRSA 2025 Annual Conference, gaining valuable knowledge and networking opportunities to further their careers.
Additionally, Project COURAGE will support Sarah Ziccarelli Smith, Assistant Director for Aquatics, Fitness, and Student Training at Delaware State University, in her efforts to bridge the swim equity gap.
“At Matrix, we believe in the power of education and the transformative impact of fitness,” said Rebecca Peoples, University / College Channel Sales Manager at Matrix Fitness. “Through Project COURAGE, we are proud to support these talented individuals as they pursue careers in the fitness and wellness industry. We are excited to see how their contributions will help shape the future of health and wellness in their communities.”
Matrix Fitness remains committed to fostering inclusion and professional development within the fitness industry. For more information about the Project COURAGE scholarship program, please visit www.ProjectCOURAGEbyMatrix.com.