Meet Shainberg Scholar: ShEltoria Love
Washington University in St. Louis
Social Impact Leadership
The Soulsville Charter School alum
Master’s Degree (Graduating May 2026)
Sheltoria Love is one of four 2025 Shainberg Scholars, awarded $4,000 to support her Master of Social Work at Washington University in St. Louis. A proud Soulsville alum and community changemaker, Sheltoria is using her voice—and her vision—to build more equitable systems and empower future generations in Memphis.
Background and soulsville
“I grew up in South Memphis and attended school in my neighborhood from elementary through high school. Stafford Elementary and Alton Elementary (both now closed) instilled in me an early drive for higher education that has stayed with me. From there I attended the Soulsville Charter School for middle and high school, graduating with the Class of 2016. I could see the Stax Museum sign from my front porch, and it was a constant reminder of the cultural legacy that shaped my community. Being at Soulsville, right in the heart of that legacy, deepened my connection to the history and resilience of the place that I call home. It also gave me the opportunity to learn the violin, allowing me to actively carry forward a piece of Memphis’s rich musical tradition. I feel blessed to have never had to leave my neighborhood for a quality education, thanks to passionate educators and school leaders who supported my growth and prepared me for the path I’m on today.
College Experience
“I am pursuing my Master of Social Work at Washington University in St. Louis, with a concentration in Social Impact Leadership on the Leadership and Management track. I will be entering the final year of my program this Fall 2025 and plan to graduate in May 2026, just three days before my birthday.
I switched my concentration to Social Impact Leadership because it combines the business and organizational skills with a strong foundation in social work ethics to prepare me to address complex social issues effectively and strategically. Growing up in Memphis and witnessing firsthand the challenges created by systemic inequities (in education and housing) as well as the resilience and strength of my community inspired my passion for this work. While my background in social and economic development involved creating programs that support communities, I realized I needed to strengthen my leadership abilities to drive more sustainable, system-level change. My education is helping me develop strategic thinking and innovative approaches to enhance existing organizations and to launch new initiatives that respond to urgent social challenges. My goal is to be a leader who empowers communities by leveraging local assets and advancing equity through thoughtful, community-centered action. I truly believe in lifting others as you climb, which is why much of my career has focused on supporting and developing programs for youth. I know firsthand the difference it makes when someone pours into you, and I'm striving to create spaces and conditions where others can thrive and receive that same support.”
Winning the Shainberg Scholarship
“Being awarded a Shainberg Scholarship is a meaningful honor because Herbert Shainberg’s legacy of fairness, justice, and kindness deeply aligns with my own values and commitment to social impact. His dedication to standing up for what is right and supporting Memphians inspires me even more as I pursue leadership that advances equity and justice in communities like my own. The Shainberg family’s example reminds me that true leadership requires both strength and compassion, qualities I strive to embody in my work. This scholarship also gives me the capacity to focus more on my education. I am grateful for the opportunity to help carry this legacy forward.”
Giving Back to Memphis
“Giving back to Memphis means investing in the community that shaped me by lifting up its people, preserving its rich culture, and creating opportunities for future generations to thrive. It’s about using my skills, time, and resources to support local organizations, empower youth, and address the challenges facing our city. For me, giving back is a commitment to honoring my roots while helping build a stronger, more equitable Memphis—one where everyone can see themselves thriving in the place they grew up, instead of feeling like they have to leave.”
About the Shainberg Scholarship
The Shainberg Scholarship, made possible through the generosity of the Shainberg Family and Give901, is an investment in the future of Memphis. Designed to support students with significant financial need, the scholarship is open to those pursuing a wide range of educational paths—from four-year universities to trade schools, certificate programs, apprenticeships, and more.
Inspired by the legacy of Herbert Shainberg, a beloved Memphis businessman known for his kindness, fairness, and philanthropy, this scholarship honors his spirit by helping students climb toward their full potential. His grandchildren continue that legacy today, making it possible for recipients—proudly known as Shainberg Scholars—to focus on their goals and rise to new heights.
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