Where the 2025 Shainberg Scholars Are Now
Created by the Shainberg Family and awarded through Give901, the Shainberg Scholarship supports Choose901 Alumni students from Memphis as they pursue higher education.
Named for Herbert Shainberg, a beloved Memphis businessman known for his generosity, kindness, and fierce commitment to fairness and justice, the scholarship was created to help cover tuition, remove stress, unlock opportunity, and allow Choose901 Alumni students to fully pursue their purpose.
Now, in 2025, the impact of that vision is already clear.
From hands-on career exploration and final semesters to doctoral research and professional transitions, the 2025 Shainberg Scholars are making strides as a direct result of the scholarship.
Here’s where they are now, and what they’ve been able to do because of the Shainberg Scholarship.
Lakescia Hicks
📍 Middle Tennessee
State University
🎓 Agricultural Science,
Pre-Vet
🏫 Alumni: The Soulsville Charter School
For Lakescia Hicks, the Shainberg Scholarship opened the door to real-world experiences that are shaping her future in animal science and veterinary medicine.
“Receiving the Shainberg scholarship has supported me in so many aspects. From exploring my profession during my fall semester, to working on a farm, and also becoming a part of the Middle Tennessee athletics marketing team. Getting the chance to experience these opportunities was definitely made possible by the support and help of the Shainberg family. Now, as I go into my spring semester, I can't wait to see what I do next! Thank you.”
Lakescia and the Middle Tennessee Athletics Marketing Team on the field
Because financial pressure was eased, Lakescia could say yes to exploration—gaining hands-on experience, building confidence, and discovering how her interests intersect across disciplines.
Sheltoria Love
📍 Washington University in St. Louis
🎓 Master of Social Work – Social Impact Leadership
🧠 Graduate Assistant, Community Liaison, Nonprofit Consultant
🏫 Alumni: The Soulsville Charter School
As Sheltoria Love approaches graduation, the Shainberg Scholarship has provided stability and focus during a critical season.
“The scholarship has made a huge difference for me by relieving financial stress and allowing me to focus a little more on my classes and goals. Knowing I have this support also gives me peace of mind and motivation to keep pushing forward, especially as I complete my final semester and prepare for what comes next.”
With that support, Sheltoria can fully lean into her academic work and leadership roles, preparing to continue serving communities through social impact and nonprofit leadership.
Ruby B. Winters
📍 University of Memphis
🎓 Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
🧠 Therapist, College Counselor, Research Assistant
🏫 Alumni: The Collegiate School of Memphis
For Ruby B. Winters, the Shainberg Scholarship provided certainty during a time of widespread uncertainty in higher education funding.
“This scholarship has been an immense help as I continue my academic journey. My department has unfortunately had to cut back funding as a result of decreased federal funding so as a result, funding for graduate students is no longer guaranteed. We find out if we have funding at the end of each semester. I did not have all of my tuition covered this semester, but this scholarship helps cover the full amount, so I can continue my doctoral studies without the stress of worrying about how to pay. I am very grateful for this opportunity provided by the Shainberg family. I am most looking forward to the opportunity to refine my skills as a researcher and counselor educator this semester. This will be my first semester gaining experience teaching master’s students and beginning my dissertation research. Thank you again for this wonderful opportunity!”
Ruby and one of the faculty at Memphis, presenting at the Association for Counselor Education and Supervision, her first national conference as a doctoral student
Because of this support, Ruby can focus on teaching, research, and dissertation work. developing skills that will shape future counselors, educators, and students.
Lesly Urbina
📍 Christian Brothers University
🎓 Computer Science Major
🧠 Intern at MLGW
💡 Coordinator at Bits, Bytes & Bots
🏫 Alumni: The Collegiate School of Memphis
Lesly Urbina’s journey reflects the full-circle impact of the Shainberg Scholarship: education leading directly into meaningful career opportunities.
“Receiving the Shainberg Scholarship has truly been a blessing, and it has relieved so much financial stress so I can fully focus on finishing my degree and continuing to grow professionally. This spring, I’m excited to pour my energy into completing a successful senior project while wrapping up my last semester working with Bits, Bytes & Bots. I’m also looking forward to transitioning into a full-time position with MLGW and stepping into this next chapter with confidence and gratitude.”
With the freedom to focus, Lesly is finishing strong and stepping confidently into the tech workforce, bringing her skills back to the Memphis community.
Ready to Apply? 2026 Could Be Your Year.
If you’re a Choose901 Alum with big goals and a commitment to growth, the Shainberg Scholarship could help make your next step possible.
This scholarship is a belief, legacy, and a community invested in your success.
✨ Applications for the 2026 Shainberg Scholarship are opening soon.
