Author James Patterson Photo Credit: STEPHANIE DIANI
The Patterson Family Foundation has presented the University of the Virgin Islands with a $75,000 gift intended to be used to support first-year undergraduate and graduate students aspiring to careers in writing or the teaching of writing.
The foundation, established by acclaimed author James Patterson, annually funds scholarships at several tertiary institutions include Vanderbilt University and Manhattan College among others. Now, UVI joins the list, with the ability to award 10 scholarships worth $7500 each to aspiring writers embarking on their academic journeys. The scholarships are meant to help equip their recipients with the resources necessary to succeed in their chosen endeavor.
“This gift is a testament to the Foundation's commitment to literacy, education, and the power of storytelling,” said UVI President Dr. Safiya George. These values “align seamlessly with UVI's mission to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders,” she continued.
The scholarships, according to UVI's vice president for Institutional Advancement Michael Morsberger, will “open doors for students to achieve their dreams and pursue careers that will enrich the cultural and intellectual fabric of the Virgin Islands and beyond.”
Mr. Patterson, the author behind several bestselling series including Alex Cross, Women's Murder Club and Middle School, has long advocated for education and literacy, supporting students, educators, libraries and bookstores with grants and scholarships through his Family Foundation. The goal is to ensure that the joy of reading and the art of storytelling continue to thrive.
