The Lee Andrew and Hattie Ross Academic Scholarship has been established as part of the University of Westminster’s Black History Year Programme, following a generous £20,000 commitment from Dr Shantella Sherman, Director of The Acumen Group.
The scholarship is named in honour of Dr Shantella Sherman’s grandparents, Lee Andrew and Hattie Ross, recognising the influence they had on her education, values and commitment to supporting future generations. Lee Andrew and Hattie Ross were Mississippi farmers who were denied access to formal education but instilled in their 13 children a strong belief in the value of learning. The scholarship carries their legacy forward by creating opportunities for students who may experience financial and social barriers to higher education.
Amount
For the 2026–27 academic year, five students will each receive a one-off award of £2,000.
Eligibility
In order to apply, you must:
- Identify as Black or of Black heritage.
- Be a final-year undergraduate student at the University of Westminster.
- Be the first person in your immediate family to attend university.
- Demonstrate financial need.
- Demonstrate a commitment to academic achievement and personal development.
- Be studying within one of the following disciplines:
- History
- Biomedical Science
- Journalism and Digital Communications
- Culture, Environment and Social Change
- Psychology
Criteria
Applicants will be asked to provide information as part of their application to demonstrate that they meet the scholarship's eligibility requirements.
The University may request supporting evidence to verify eligibility.
Number available
Five scholarships for 2026–27.
Subject to eligible applications being received, the intention is to award one scholarship within each of the five disciplines listed above.
How to apply
Deadline: Sunday 25 November at 5pm