History, Knowledge and Education Lead to Bright Successful Futures

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The St. Mary’s County Black History Coalition (SMCBHC) is a non-profit, multi-purpose community-based organization established on July 31, 2011 by family and friends with a shared interest of enhancing community growth. SMCBHC is committed to providing educational support and bringing awareness, value and pride to the families with historical roots tied to St. Mary’s County.

SMCBHC diligently works to empower people with the knowledge of our past, advocate the education of our youth, promote health and wellness throughout the community, bring about awareness, and celebrate black history. Among various events and fundraisers the organization creates for the community, the largest and most inspiring is the Dinah K. Somerville Annual Scholarship Award.

The Dinah K. Somerville Scholarship Fund began in July 2011, in the loving memory of our beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt and friend. Dinah K. Somerville was born and raised in St. Mary’s County and was an advocate connoisseur of educating the youth and celebrating black history. The purpose of this scholarship is to assist with the tuition cost for ambitious individuals who are seeking to pursue a higher education at the college, university, trade or technical school of his/her choice. Through SMCBHC sponsored events and fundraisers, this scholarship will continue to be funded through the help and support of the people of St. Mary’s County.

This year, SMCBHC will be awarding their 6th Annual Dinah K. Somerville Scholarships for the 2018-2019 school year. Two deserving students will each receive $1,000 directly payable to their institution of choice. Scholarships shall be awarded on an objective and non-discriminatory basis. Applicants will not be judged based on race, creed, color, sex, age, sexual orientation, or disability.

Applications are currently being accepted and must be submitted by January 26, 2018. Students selected to receive the scholarships will be notified on

February 9, 2018, and will be celebrated at the Annual Black History Celebration & Award Dinner on February 25, 2018. Applications can be downloaded on our website:
www.smcbhc.wixsite. com/smcbhc

If you are interested in providing funding for the scholarships, please visit
www.smcbhc.wixsite. com/smcbhc/donate

You’re not just giving a monetary donation you are also giving our youth the chance to accomplish their dreams. Your support will be greatly appreciated and will give SMCBHC the chance to give back, lift up and excite our young individuals who are striving to discover what their futures hold. Donations can be made online via PayPal or mailed to:

St. Mary’s County Black History Coalition
Dinah K. Somerville
Scholarship Fund
P.O. Box 829
Mechanicsville, MD 20659

SMCBHC is always looking for people to get involved and join our group. For more information, please email [email protected]

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Jacklyn D. Miles, CEO of Miles and Chesley Consulting Services (MCCS), LLC. possesses over 30 years of Federal Government experience and has served and led many projects that resulted in successful business opportunities and growth in Federal Government agencies. Prior to forming MCCS, Jacklyn served as Special Assistant of Administration at the Census Bureau and Program Manager at the Department of Transportation, where she used her leadership skills, management experience and knowledge to deliver successful program management solutions. Jacklyn is active in her community, serving in leadership positions for several associations and foundations.