Coppin State University Student Selected as a 2024 White House HBCU Scholar
BALTIMORE – Coppin State University proudly announces Mellany Sophia Morales Menéndez (’25) of Chiquimula, Guatemala, has been selected as a 2024 White House HBCU Scholar by the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through Historically Black Colleges and Universities. This year's prestigious honor has been given to 110 outstanding students from 77 HBCUs who possess exceptional academic performance, leadership, and a commitment to their communities.
“I am honored to be named a White House HBCU Scholar,” said Mellany Morales Menéndez. “This is not just my success; it belongs to my entire family and my country. Coppin has helped me prepare for this moment, with wisdom from my peers and guidance from mentors like Ms. Campbell. I am proud to represent Coppin State University at the White House.”
Morales Menéndez is a native of Chiquimula, Guatemala, and a rising senior majoring in criminal justice, with plans to become a parole and probation agent after graduation. She is a Coppin State Presidential Scholar and will serve as the first Hispanic-Latina President of the Student Government Association for the 2024-2025 academic year. Additionally, she holds the positions of Vice President for Latinx UNIDOs and the Criminal Justice Club. This recognition highlights her dedication to academic excellence and her passion for community service.
“Mellany Morales Menéndez exemplifies the core values and academic excellence that we champion at Coppin State University. Her achievements reflect not only her ambitions, but also the transformational environment we cultivate across our entire Coppin community,” said Anthony Jenkins, President of Coppin State University. “I am confident that she will continue to be a profound thought-leader, both within our university and beyond.”
The White House Initiative on HBCU Scholars program is an integral part of the broader efforts to recognize and empower students from HBCUs, ensuring they have the tools and resources to contribute meaningfully to society. Scholars will have the opportunity to engage in workshops, network with professionals, and participate in development activities that will prepare them for leadership roles in various sectors.
